‘An emotional experience’ South Shields artist on creating portraits of beloved pets

A South Shields based mostly artist, creates pet portraits to those that have misplaced a beloved pet or who simply need to proudly show their furry good friend.

Amelia Willows, aged 28, who works full time as a Teaching Assistant, additionally runs her artwork business Willows Portraits on the facet.

Amelia stated: “I loved art from a young age and it’s always been a huge part of my life.”

Amelia studied a Fine Art diploma at Northumbria University, and now makes use of the abilities gained from her research to launch two artwork businesses, Willows Portraits and Amelia Willows Art.

She defined: “As well as pet portraits, I take commissions for people portraits, abstract paintings, book illustration and all sorts of things.”

Amelia determined to launch her pet portrait business after she first drew a portrait of a good friend’s canine as a birthday current when she was solely 14 years old. 

She stated: “After that, I gradually got more commissions through word of mouth, which naturally led to starting it as a proper business. 

“I’ve kept it going throughout full time employment and education. For me, it’s important to have projects outside of my employed job.”

Amelia definitely retains busy as she additionally teaches young individuals artwork on the weekends. She stated: “I love the buzz of working with young people, and then to zone out while drawing portraits in the evening. It’s a nice balance.”

Amelia tells us of the method of making a pet portrait, which incorporates the shopper sending photographs of their pet, after which deciding on the scale of portrait they want.

“Each portrait takes around two weeks to complete,” Amelia defined. 

“My miniature Dachshund, Daisy and I have spent hours in the studio over the years, with lots of random music, podcasts, and the sound of her snoring in the background.”

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A pet portrait from Willows Portraits is priced relying on measurement and color. 

For pencil drawings, an A5 portray is priced at £70 for graphite, and £80 for color. A4 is £90 for graphite and £100 for color, A3 is £110 for graphite and £120 for color. Amelia additionally presents acrylic, watercolour and oil work.

Amelia understands the significance of making the right pet portrait, particularly for individuals who have sadly misplaced their pet. 

She defined: “Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of drawing portraits of childhood dogs that have passed away, and then the owner’s new dogs, and sometimes even the next dog after that.

“This experience has been deeply touching because I’ve witnessed the cycle of joy and heartbreak that comes with owning a pet. As an animal lover myself, it’s been a unique honour to be a part of my clients’ journey and to capture the essence of their beloved pets, past and present.

“I’ve also had the opportunity to draw portraits of not just pets but also parents, grandparents, and loved ones who have passed away. 

“One particularly poignant moment was when I was trusted to create a portrait of a father with his beloved dog, who had passed away shortly after his owner’s passing. It was an emotional experience, and I may have had a tear in my eye as I worked on that portrait. Knowing that it brought comfort to the recipient was incredibly touching.”

She continued: “These experiences underscore the profound value of art in preserving memories and emotions. My portrait business has shown me how art can be a source of comfort and solace, helping people cherish and remember their loved ones, both human and furry, for years to come. 

“It’s a testament to the enduring and sentimental power of art, and I’m grateful to be a part of these special moments in my clients’ lives.”