Hello, I’m Richard.
I paint custom oil portraits that capture the heart and individuality of your pets.
Whether you share your home with an energetic pup, a watchful cat or any creature in between, my aim is to turn your favourite photos into an heirloom-quality piece of fine art. I combine classic painting traditions with a deep love for animals to capture each pet’s spirit and character.
Thank you for sharing your companions with me — it’s a privilege to paint them!
Training and materials.
I’ve been drawing since I was a young lad, and that childhood obsession eventually turned into a love of oil painting. I’m primarily self taught, but I’ve continued to develop my skills through courses at the Toronto School of Art and the Art Gallery of Ontario. I’m also currently enrolled in a painting mentorship program, so there’s always something new to learn, experiment with, and obsess over!
I love working with Oil paints specifically because it allows me to work both wet on wet and wet on dry, creating everything from soft, fluffy fur to fine individual hairs. I build each portrait gradually, layering colour and detail to bring out the unique character of every pet.
For my paintings, I use professional quality oil paints from Michael Harding, Gamblin, and M. Graham & Co.
I’m originally from the Isle of Man, a tiny island in the Irish Sea. Growing up surrounded by rugged coastlines, rolling hills and wildlife left its mark on me as an artist. I’ve always been drawn to nature, animals, and the little details that make them unique.
Whether you’re celebrating a companion who is still by your side or honouring one you miss, the aim is the same: to make something true, beautiful and deeply personal.
Let’s paint your companion.
Send a few favourite photos and tell me what makes them unmistakably themselves.