A New Portrait Story
Introducing my portrait of Cash. Discover the painting journey behind this recent commission and watch how this oil painting took shape.
Introducing the playful and dynamic Cash, who has a passion for sand, sea and mountain biking!
During this commission I worked closely with Cash's family to find the perfect combination of elements that would capture this spirit.
I blocked out the early stages of the painting in acrylics for speed but then moved into oils - my preferred medium- and immersed myself in the glorious sunshine and energy of this happy scene.
Keep an eye out for part 2, where I share the final stages of varnishing and framing this portrait.
Out of interest, where do you stand on the acrylics vs oil discussion? Do you prefer one over the other? Let me know in the comments below?
Any Qs, fire away! For all info about my commission service click below
Painting a Dog Portrait - Part 3
The final part of this portrait story, showing you what I do to finish off an oil painting. Watch a mini video of the varnish and framing stages.
Today I’m showing you how I finish off an oil painting.
I start with a coat of retouch varnish to even out the surface of the painting whilst providing a layer of protection. I always use a nice big brush to do this.
Then onto the framing. I’m a big fan of float mount box frames, which give a shadow gap effect around the painting. I’ve recently discovered a great online company, called The Picture Gallery that makes them to measure, in different coloured finishes. I opted for a smart steely grey which offset the colours of the portrait well.
Tussock’s portrait, now framed and ready to go, will be packed and posted out to its new home very soon!
Want to know more about my commission service? click the button below for more info!
Painting a Dog Portrait - Part 2
The second instalment of this portrait’s story, where I dive into the oil paints! Watch how the painting starts to build in depth and detail.
Welcome to the second part in this dog portrait mini series, where I’m diving into the oil paints!
This video is a spliced summary of several sessions, where I worked up the tones, colour and detail gradually, usually leaving a few days in between each session for things to dry.
I favour using big sheets of tracing paper for a palette, where I can really spread out and mix up the colours I need.
In part three I will try and do a little overview of all the equipment I use. Here you’ll eyespy a few things, my trusty painting stick being one of them, which really helps steady the hand for fine detail.
The commission brief requested that Tussock’s name be featured in the painting, allowing me the perfect opportunity to play with a beautiful formula, I’ve long admired, often seen in the 16th century portraits of Hans Holbein the Younger.
Stay tuned for the final stages in part 3, where I walk you through the varnishing, framing, packing and posting!
Painting a Dog Portrait - Part 1
Discover how I get going on a dog portrait in oil on canvas. Walking you through part 1 of the journey with this painting of a beautiful dog called Tussock.
How I begin an oil painting…
There's been a lot going on behind the scenes over the last few months.
I've been working on a number of projects and I’m finally getting round to sharing them!
Kicking things off with this portrait of Tussock. For those of you more familiar with my digital paintings of animals, I thought it would be nice to walk you through what I do with an oil painting.
So here we are, Part 1 - mapping out the foundations of the portrait in acrylic. Why acrylic? because it dries super quickly. In part 2 you will see me moving into oils - which I much prefer!
More updates, coming soon! For now wishing you all a super weekend!
Max's Portrait
In honour of international Dog's day I'm talking about a very special Dog Portrait commission. Find out about Max’s story, and why it deeply moved me.
Early stages, sketching out Max’s portrait on my wacom tablet.
In celebration of international Dog’s Day I wanted to talk about a very special commission that deeply moved me.
I was contacted by John, whose first year ‘paper’ wedding anniversary was coming up and wanted to gift his lovely wife a portrait of their beloved dog, Max.
Max had, very sadly, died a week before their wedding the previous year, and his absence was greatly felt. Not least because of the powerful association Max had with their son, who had also passed away.
We decided on a monochrome, digital charcoal medium. When finished, the portrait was printed on thick archival art paper and framed.
Drawing freehand on my wacom tablet, I lost myself in the quiet contemplation of Max’s beautiful face, illuminated by seaside sunshine, animated by the dancing light reflected in the water around him. The powerful symbolism of the sea enfolding him. On the horizon I added two sailing boats, with the ‘somewhere beyond the sea’ associations of loved ones lost.
Finished PORTRAIT OF MAX, DIGITAL CHARCOAL DRAWING
When Kate, John’s wife, received the portrait, she said the following:
Words can’t really describe how wonderful Max’s portrait is, but I’ll have a go. I’ll admit that there were a number of tears shed when his portrait was given to me. Max was a soul dog and the best friend we could have possibly asked for. As a hugely loyal companion especially to our eldest son and I, he was an incredible comfort after the loss of our eldest son. Somehow our wonderful Labrador just knew how to hold space for us all. Consequently when Max passed away in 2021 it hit hard. Susie has beautifully captured Max in his portrait, so much so that he embodies the same soulful presence that he did in life. I take genuine comfort from his portrait everyday and really cannot thank her enough. Thank you Susie 💛
Experiences like this touch on something beyond a simple exchange of words, they go right into the very heart of us and open up dialogues full of meaning, healing and growth.
Do you have a special someone you would like me to paint?
Click the button below, to find out more, say hello and let’s have a chat!
New Commission in Progress
A new commission is underway in the studio. Discover the story behind this mother and daughter dog portrait and why it is going to be a particularly special one!
Just a little behind the scenes glimpse of a new work in progress.
Introducing the beautiful Inca, a wonderful dog who I had the pleasure of meeting this Summer up and in Scotland.
These are the early stages of the portrait I am painting of her. It is part of a double commission where I will also be painting her daughter Tussac.
The fun of it is Inca’s portrait will be a digital one, which will be printed and framed, whilst Tussac’s portrait will be oil on canvas.
It is a wonderful opportunity to chart the progress of each portrait and each method, so stay tuned for further updates!
To find out more about my commission service click the button below or get in touch directly with any Qs!
Jed's Portrait Story
Spotlighting my portrait of this beautiful Border Collie, Jed. Watch a little video showing how his portrait developed and what Jed made of the finished framed painting!
Today's Testimonial is spotlighting my portrait of Jed, a beautiful Border Collie, whose adventuring you can follow @jedstagram_
In his youth he rounded up sheep in Scotland. Now retired, he lives in Devon, is a big fan of cuddles and is the proud older brother to Rose, his human sister.
Watch this little video showing how the portrait evolved and what it looked like finished and framed.
Here’s what Hannah, Jed’s human, had to say about it
Susie is incredibly talented, and has created the most beautiful and professional digital portrait of our beloved border collie, Jed. She has captured him brilliantly, and we look forward to him watching us from the wall every day! Exceptional. Can’t recommend Susie highly enough!
Commission Bookings for September are now open! For more info about my Commission Service click the button below
Kovu's Story
Discover the story behind my portrait of Kovu - just one of the paintings to feature in my new exhibition at Putney Library, opening tomorrow!
Today I'm spotlighting my portrait of the lovely Kovu.
I worked closely with Kovu’s owner Amy to get to the heart of his story, exploring his character and passions as well as the special points of reference in Amy and Kovu’s relationship. His portrait was a celebration of all these things.
The reference image we decided upon, with his lion-like locks, was the perfect nod to the origins of his name, inspired by the character from Lion king 2. The mini tennis ball and paddle board hanging from his collar also paid tribute to two of his favourite pastimes.
The beaded collar, a special gift from Amy’s father in Kenya, and usually hidden by Kovu’s fur, was placed centre stage as an imagined addition to the strap of his body harness. Finally, the date 22.11.20 was added to the disc at his collar to commemorate the day Kovu joined his family.
Come and take a look at this portrait in person at my new exhibition, opening tomorrow at Putney Library!
For all exhibition info, click the button below!
Millie & Doughie's Portrait Story
From loose line sketch to unboxing the finished framed portraits, watch a little walk through of the commission process for these two lovable characters.
Timid & gentle Millie & Doughie, a 20kg ball of loving energy are the subjects of today's portrait deep dive.
Have a watch as I walk you through my journey with them from loose sketched line to finished framed portraits unboxed by their mum Sarah.
Whether a simple character portrait, showing the cheeky sparkle in a subjects eye or something with more story, weaving in objects or anecdotes with special meanings; my specialty is creating artworks that bring to life personalities in beautiful colour and detail.
I have one commission slot left for April and am now taking bookings for May.
Do you have a character in your life in need of a portrait?
SAY HELLO with any Qs, I’m always happy to chat through ideas!
For info about my commission service click the button below.
Click the button below to watch the full timelapse for each painting.
Shining Eyes, A Work in Progress
A glimpse at what is on the digital easel this week, showing my progress on my portrait of Treacle, in particular focusing in how I paint his eyes.
A commission in progress…sharing a little glimpse of Treacle's portrait.
Showing his eyes gradually taking shape; shining globes of wisdom and experience set within a beautifully chaotic frame of bushy eyebrows and fur - loving the journey they are taking me on!
Eyes do a lot of talking, communicating so much without words and are definitely one of my favourite features to paint.
Further updates to follow!
Would you like me to capture the unique sparkle in your dog's eyes?
I have one more commission slot available in April up for grabs which might interest you!
Feel free to get in touch or click the button below to explore more info on my commission service.
Exploring Watercolour
Going on a journey with digital watercolour, showing a mini timelapse of my experiments in this medium whilst working on a new commission.
Been diving into digital watercolour this week, working on a new commission, exploring the world of illustration.
I naturally gravitate towards oil paints, with their solid buttery textures and flexibility, I know where I am with them, they are a familiar friend. Watercolours have always been a little outside my comfort zone, being more unpredictable in nature.
I have however two commissions I am working on, which require a more delicate approach, and watercolour is the perfect medium.
Rebelle 4, the painting software I use, is pretty astounding in how it replicates the way watercolours behave and move, spreading, dripping, diffusing across the page.
Not certain where it would lead me, I began this week with an open mind, keeping my approach light and playful - swipe to watch a little time-lapse!
Gradually a rhythm emerged and, dare I say it, a friendship!
Goes to show how much we can learn when we delve into new territory and what treasures we can find!
To find out more about my commission service click the button below.
The Pawfect Partnership - Kovu's Finished Portrait
The final chapter of Kovu’s portrait story. Discover what elements inspired this painting and watch the big reveal, when Kovu and his owner see his portrait for the first time!
Happy to reveal the finished portrait of my pet portrait prize winner Kovu!
As some of you remember, last October I teamed up with local Pet Au Pair Business @Pawpairs to launch this giveaway and Kovu was announced the winner just before Christmas!
I worked closely with Kovu’s owner Amy to get to the heart of Kovu’s story, exploring his character and passions as well as the special points of reference in Amy and Kovu’s relationship. His portrait was a celebration of these things.
The reference image we decided upon, with his lion-like locks, was the perfect nod to the origins of his name, inspired by the character from Lion king 2. The mini tennis ball and paddle board hanging from his collar also paid tribute to two of his favourite pastimes. The beaded collar, a special gift from Amy’s father in Kenya, and usually hidden by Kovu’s fur, was placed centre stage as an imagined addition to the strap of his body harness. Finally, the date 22.11.20, was added to the disc at his collar to commemorate the day Kovu joined his family.
Kovu’s portrait was presented to him and Amy this week at Pawpairs HQ, much to everyone’s excitement [see video below]. Kovu’s portrait was painted using digital oil paints on a computer [see timelapse below] I then arranged the professional printing and framing.
As perhaps you know, I offer a commission service specialising in story-telling paintings of people, animals and treasured objects and I am now taking on new commissions for April.
Do you have a commission idea? if so I welcome you to get in touch by clicking the button below
Kovu’s Story & Portrait Presentation Ceremony
Timelapse of Kovu’s Portrait
Hello from the Studio
Revealing a little glimpse behind the scenes, showing work in progress on my latest portrait and sharing two very inspiring podcasts which have got me rethinking the way I breath and the impact breathing can have on our well being.
Waving a hello from the studio and sharing a glimpse of the progress on my latest portrait.
I am happily at sea in this glorious mane of hair which I am slowly refining the details of and it's all getting a little bit magical!
I shall reveal the full portrait and story soon!
Whilst painting I have also been listening to a couple of excellent podcasts I was recently recommended about nasal breathing. I found them hugely eye opening and in some ways life changing, as I have begun to apply aspects of what I am learning.
I want, in turn, to pass on the recommendation to all of you in the hope that they may also be of benefit and help spread the word about just how powerful our breathing can be on a chemical level and how transformative.
The two podcasts in question are:
#99 how breathing through your nose will change your life with Patrick Mckeown
#124 why changing the way you breath will transform your body and mind with James Nestor
They come from the podcast series 'Feel Better, Live More' hosted by Dr Rangan Chatterjee (GP & Author) which is one to subscribe to in general for the quality insights and conversations you can find there.
My current breathing challenge is jogging with the mouth shut - what's yours?
Wishing you all a wonderful weekend full of good nasal breathing!
Celebrating World Black Dogs Day
Celebrating World Black Dog day with this portrait I did of a wonderful dog called Guinness. Talking about how black fur is just as rich as any other colour to paint.
“I just wanted to thank Susie for the superb portrait she did of Guinness. It has proved extremely difficult to get photos of him over the years as, being black, he does not come out that well.
In his 17+ years we probably only have a handful of decent pics! It was fascinating watching, online, how she built the picture up and the finished article captures him to a tee, his posture, look and essence. I never realised how specialised digital painting was, taking a treasured photo as reference and creating an artwork that incorporates the very spirit of the subject.
It now has pride of place in our Dining Room and has been greatly admired by all his/our friends who we shared it with. It is the first time we have tried getting a portrait of Guinness and it was so easy I wish we had thought of it before. Once again many thanks, it will be part of the family for decades to come.”
In honour of #worldblackdogday on Friday, I am looking back on the portrait I did of the wonderful Guinness or Guinness Maximilian Cowley to give him his full title.
It was such a joy to see how this portrait was received by his family and interesting to hear about their struggle to get good images of him over the years because of his colour.
When I see any colour I see the myriad of colours that make it up. So black becomes a mesmerizing blend of blues, purples, greys, browns, pinks...I could go on!
It was a pleasure to bring Guinness to life in colour and create for his family an artwork that will be treasured for years to come.
Do you have a black dog that you've always wanted to celebrate? Now could be your chance!
I am running a very special pet portrait giveaway this month, in partnership with the brilliant team @pawpairs in Wandsworth.
Click the button below to find out how to enter
AND...be in with a chance to win a beautifully painted, completely bespoke portrait of your animal!
Also a shout out to Colleen Paige who created world/international black dog day in honour of her beloved black dog and to draw attention to the plight of many abandoned black dogs looking for a home.
Follow @worldblackdogday for more info!
Hug Your Hound Day
Celebrating a special Lurcher called Luna on this special Hug your Hound Day. Read on to find out her story.
Luna, digital painting
Today I'm celebrating Luna or 'Loopy' as she is also affectionately known by her family.
Rescued at 6 months of age from death row kennels in 2017, she arrived at her new home with no house training and on hyper alert to everything around her. Overtime and with patience she gradually settled in.
Now a canicross team with owner Jo (a kind of dog/human jogging duo), a wonderful companion to Jo's toddler and a happy playmate with Doug her younger lurcher buddy (who I have also painted).
Given that Luna is always on the move, so much so that she even 'runs in her sleep,' it was a particular fluke that Jo managed to snap a picture of her standing still.
Also wonderful that such a restless, active soul should in turn give rise to several hours worth of my own quiet, contemplation and study in creating this portrait of her.
Today is also #hugyourhoundday, so if you are within reach of a loveable hound you know what to do!
International Dog Day
Today I am looking back on all the wonderful dogs I have had the honour of painting this year. Read on to find out what I discovered.
Swift on the heels of International Cat Day, today it is our Canine friend's turn!
International Dog Day was created in 2004 by Colleen Paige an animal welfare Advocate and Pet Lifestyle Expert.
Why 26th August? This was the day in Colleen's life, aged 10, when their family adopted her first dog. And a big part of today's purpose is to raise awareness about the number of dogs that need to be rescued each year. It is also a celebration of all dogs both mixed and pure in race.
I have been on a portrait painting rollercoaster since last January which has introduced me to some wonderful dogs, many of them mixed breed and rescue cases.
Today I am looking back over my journey so far. Whilst each dog was particular in their personality and character, all were unanimously irreplaceable and special members of their families.
Each played a powerful part in the family dynamic, whether that was entertaining, keeping in check, caring, supporting, reassuring, energy giving, protecting - they were all ultimate loving companion / best bud / accomplice!
I am constantly moved and inspired by the stories of these animals and the daily impact they make on their owners' lives. I like to think of each portrait I do as a visual celebration of this powerful bond.
If you would like to find out how I can help you celebrate the dog in your life do check out my commission service by clicking the button below.
Wishing dogs and dog lovers alike a cheerful and treat-full day!
Clover, the Loyal Sprocker
Introducing my latest portrait of a sprocker called Clover. Read all about her story and watch a small time-lapse of this portrait in progress.
Clover, Digital oil painting
Happy to share my new portrait of a kind and loyal sprocker called Clover.
She’s accompanied her owner Rachael through every kind of adventure, be it moves, job pivots and most recently a pandemic pregnancy, where she remained tucked up by Rachael’s side, ever supportive, patient and reassuring.
Hard to really sum something like this up in words. At the heart of it, I suppose, is a quality of love that is beautifully pure, innocent and freely given.
Have you got a loyal dog in your life? What’s one memorable act of support they have given you over the years? I find these stories so insightful, so please do share in the comments below.
Rachael describes Clover as the ‘dog of a lifetime’ and ‘her soulmate’ a fitting tribute to a wonderful animal.
In the time-lapse below you can watch a summary of how this portrait progressed, starting loose and gradually refining into detail.
Portrait of Doug
Today I’m sharing my latest portrait of an energetic pup called Doug. Hear more about his story and watch a time-lapse of how this digital painting came together.
Today’s painting is a portrait of young Doug, a lovable lurcher full of bounce.
Although in the first two weeks of his life all he did was eat and sleep which won him the affectionate title of ‘Doug the Slug.’
Now approaching his first birthday he has certainly come a long way since then and loves his walks in all weathers with his family.
Whilst he is still getting the hang of things, and is yet to realise that his back legs and tail belong to him, his energy and enthusiasm for life more than make up for this.
Have you got a young pup that you would like me to paint?
To find out more about my commission service just click the button below which will take you to a page where I explain everything you need to know.
Furry Friends Friday is Back
After a bit of a pause, my Furry Friends Fridays are now back in swing with my new painting of Jed the Border Collie. Read on to find out all about him and watch a time-lapse of this painting in progress.
Jed, digital painting
I’ve been wearing my admin hat a lot recently so it was with great pleasure that I got back into creating mode this week, painting this beautiful Border Collie called Jed. Check him out @jedstagram
In his former life he spent his days rounding up sheep in Scotland. Now in retirement, he lives in Devon, a big fan of cuddles and the proud older brother to Rose, his new little human sister.
Whilst painting him, I was really struck by his quizzical expression, so full of thought and wisdom. See the time-lapse below to watch how this emerged.
If you have a pet full of character with an interesting story to tell you might be interested to visit my commission service page, where I explain how I can help you turn that story into a beautiful painted portrait of them.
You can find out everything you need to know by clicking the button below.
Wishing everyone a great Friday!
Millie, the Mountaineer
Today’s digital painting celebrates Millie, a little Patterdale, Jack Russell Terrier mix with a lot of tricks up her sleeve.
Read on to find out more and watch a full timelapse of this painting in progress.
Today’s digital painting celebrates Millie the Mountaineer!
Believed to be a Patterdale, Jack Russell Terrier mix, but she was recued by her family 6 years ago, so no one is entirely sure.
Originally a circus dog, Millie can army crawl you under a table. She is also an enthusiastic walker (with a couple of mountains under her belt) but will happily sleep all day if you let her.
She is a little shy, very gentle and, according to her owner, is ‘as good as gold,’ so much so that she was awarded ‘best small dog’ at her village dog show.
I have painted her here in her mountain gear and very much enjoyed losing myself in the reflections of her eyes which gave a little glimpse of a wonderfully snowy view.
Have a look at the video below to see the full timelapse of how this painting progressed.