Welcome to Pencil Pet Portraits. I am Melanie, a classically trained artist with over 25 years of expertise, specialising in bespoke pencil portraits of dogs, cats, and horses. I create a limited amount of drawings per year and my work is sought after by clients globally. Each piece is meticulously hand-drawn by myself, tailored to your specification.
Graphite pencil has long been my preferred medium, offering the perfect balance to create realistic yet subtly delicate portraits of animals. It is a timeless, classic choice, ideal for capturing the grace of each subject on my drawing board. Take a look around my realistc pencil pet portraits gallery - pencil pet portraits gallery »
Each portrait is lovingly created in my private art studio, nestled within the serene beauty of our woodland garden, where I work alongside my husband, Nicholas Beall, a well known oil pet portrait artist. If you are looking for a bespoke, hand-drawn custom pencil drawing of your beloved companion, I hope that you will choose me to created the drawing for you.
For a comprehensive guide on how to commission one of my bespoke pencil pet portraits, visit my Commission Info page. There, you'll find everything you need to know about the creative journey we will embark on.
From the initial consultation where we will discuss how you envision your portraits to look, choosing the perfect photo for me to work from, to the careful packaging of your finished portrait.
If you're seeking advice on capturing the perfect photograph for your portrait, my Photography Tips page offers valuable insights to help you take the ideal image, ensuring the best representation of your beloved companion.
Each of my pencil drawings are drawn from thoughtfully chosen photographs by my clients, such as the pencil drawing of Betty featured below. My client, Amy, provided the reference image, which allowed me to capture Betty's essence with precision and grace. I have collated a gallery where you can view a selection of my artwork alongside the original photos, offering a glimpse into the story behind the finished portrait.
My clients are so lovely! I have been sent some beautiful photos of them with their pencil pet portraits. Some amazing letters of thanks that have bought tears to my eyes when I have read them. My pet portrait testimonials show that you can be confident I will provide you with a pet portrait that is the perfect representation of your beloved pet. It will bring you many years of blessed memories. Visit my pet portraits testimonials page to see a whole host of photos and feedback - Pencil Pet Portrait Reviews »
My realistic pencil portraits are meticulously hand drawn by myself to reflect not only the physical likeness of your pet but also their true personality. From the sparkle in their eyes to the texture of their fur, my aim is to create a timeless piece that resonates deeply with their owners. If you’re looking for a custom portrait that brings your pet’s true essence to life, I would love to work with you.
I'm stunned by those photos of the portrait, they are fantastic. You have such a talent! I think my husband will be thrilled when he sees it. We both miss Beano very much still even though it's 9 months since he died. He was such a character and you've captured that perfectly in the picture.
Ellen Whitter
I find pencil a wonderful medium to describe the many varied textures of animals allowing me to create detail not only in the animal but also the setting and background too. I work from one main photo of your pet for the pose, so if you have a favourite photo that you love, that's good quality, I can hand draw this for you and create a beautiful work of art. If you are interested in commissioning a pencil drawing, you are more than welcome to email me photos of your pet at anytime. I am very much looking forward to working with you soon!
My long morning commute down to my garden studio is through a little gate from the top cottage garden, down into the wooded area and past the chickens! Our studio is nestled amongst the trees in our garden, so we have a bird feeder to encourage wildlife to the area around the studio. We have a family of woodpeckers, Jays, Nuthatches and an abundance of Finches, Blue Tits and tiny Coal Tits. My favourite has to be the Tree Creeper. Squirrels scurry on the floor eating up all of the nuts and seeds that they drop. Come on down our garden and take a look for yourself...Pet Portraits Studio
Paula commissioned me to draw a portrait of her dear dog Teasel. The pencil drawing is a 12" x 10" portrait drawn on my favoruite Hot Pressed watercolour paper. What an absolute joy Teasel was to draw. The eyes! Paula emailed me a beautiful review and sent me a photo of the portrait all framed. I hope you enjoy reading about it all below.
Dear Melanie,
I picked up my pencil portrait today and I have to tell you it is ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!!!! You have captured her spirit beautifully and the kindness she had in her soul shone through those big brown eyes.
You are IMMENSELY talented portrait artist, I cannot thank you enough. I was quite emotional opening it but they were happy tears, it almost felt as though she was back with me, words cannot express my gratitude.
I am delighted that Teasel appears on your website too, HUGE SMILE, she had that endearing scruffy look about her. Through you we have the most BEAUTIFUL tribute of our very very special little lady. It will take pride of place in our lounge.
Paula Ventress
It would be my absolute pleasure to create a pencil portrait for you and your family. Please feel free to explore my website and don’t hesitate to contact me via WhatsApp or email if you have any questions. With over 25 years of expertise, I’m committed to creating a unique one-of-a-kind portrait of your pet. You and your pet will have my undivided attention for the entire time I am drawing your portrait. As you can imagine, my commissions are limited and reserved for those seeking an exceptional piece of art of their beloved pet.