Greyhound with a Soulful Gaze

Portrait artists are always saying how important the eyes are - but we are always saying it because it's true! Eyes are truly the focal point in this portrait of Alex, a senior greyhound, captured in close-up on this 12 x 12 canvas. 

Just to show you what I mean - you know, eyes are the window of the soul and all -- here's a close-up shot of Alex's peepers.

Here's the photo I worked from, originally.  Alex is a 9-year-old ex-racing greyhound, a laid-back dude who likes his stuffed toys.  You might notice that I painted Alex without his collars.  I felt they would have made the portrait busy, and detracted from Alex's face.  In fact, I only rarely include a dog's collar, like when a portrait needs a pop of color, or the owner specifically wants it to be included.  Otherwise I like to paint my subjects "naked."

If you'd like me to paint your senior dog, your pup, or a dog that's somewhere in between, shoot me an email, and we can get started!

Boston Terrier with Attitude

I love the composition of this portrait of a Boston Terrier named Bubba, and it seems I'm not the only one. I submitted this painting to the weekly Fan Art contest at Jerry's Artarama (the well-known art supply store), and it was one of 20 works selected to be highlighted in their facebook fan art gallery. How fun is that?

The original painting is fairly large at 18 x 24 inches, and makes a dramatic statement up on a wall.

Want me to make something similar for you? Just email and we can get started!

Thanks for supporting me and my art.

Shih Tzu Painting by Janet Burt

Every time I write the words Shih Tzu I have to look up how to spell them - I guess I have a mental block in that arena.  But, whatever difficulties I have writing the words, I am glad to report that I don't have a similar problem painting the breed.  Here's my latest, painted on 16 x 20 gallery-wrapped canvas:

I've been working on a number of "hairy-faced" dogs lately.  It's a completely different painting challenge than a smooth-coated dog, and really must be done in layers, with the dark tones going down first so they can show between the lighter layers of fur.

Do you have a furry friend you'd like me to paint? You know where to find me!

German and French Dogs, Together at Last

Just kidding, but two of my most recent dog portraits were of a miniature Schnauzer (echt Deutsch), and a French Bulldog (French, duh). Want to see them?

It wasn't intentional to have the backgrounds on these two works be coordinating cool green and blue, but I'm not going to ignore serendipity when it comes along.

Yorkie in Pink by Janet Burt

Did you know that Yorkies are one of the most popular breeds in America? My latest portrait captures that special gaze that helps the Yorkshire Terrier ingratiate herself with nearly everyone.

This little girl's name is Poppy, and I think she's pretty in pink (more-so than Molly Ringwald back in the day).

Send me a shot of your favorite pet!

Curious Dachshund Painting by Janet Burt

There is something about dachshunds - is it their unusual shape, long ears, knobbley feet? - that I find very compelling.  So, I especially enjoyed painting this portrait of Stanley, below.

The finished painting is 16 x 20. I'm very happy with the composition on this one, where Stanley seems to be peering up and out of the canvas.

Want me to capture that special gaze from your pet? Email and let's get started.