Memorial Pet Portraits: A special reminder of a beloved pet
As a pet portrait artist, I get a mix of people who are commissioning portraits for pets that are still with us, and portraits of those who have passed away. I find it hugely satisfying to be able to create memorial pet portraits, as it can help with the grieving process, and bring some peace to owners in what is a difficult time.
Why People Choose to Commission a Memorial Portrait
Every client who reaches out for a memorial piece has their own reason, but a few themes come up again and again:
To capture something photos don't quite hold. A photograph freezes a moment. A painting can hold a feeling
To mark a transition. Commissioning a portrait is often part of the grieving process itself — a way of saying, this mattered, and I want something permanent to show for it.
To pass something down. For pets who were part of a family for a decade or more, a portrait becomes something kids or grandkids inherit — not just a pet, but a piece of family history.
To give a gift that means something. Some of the most touching commissions I do aren't for the owner at all — they're gifts from one family member to another, arranged as a truly thoughtful surprise.
What to Expect From the Process of commissioning a memorial pet portrait
If you're considering commissioning a memorial portrait for the first time, here's how it typically works:
1. Choosing the reference photo.This is the most important step, and I always spend time on it with clients. The best reference photos are well-lit, in focus, and taken at eye level with the pet — but more than technical quality, I want for a photo that feels like them.
2. Talking through details.Was there a favorite blanket, a particular collar, a background that meant something — a garden, a specific window, a walking trail? These details can be worked into the piece, or left out in favor of something simpler and more timeless. There's no right answer; it depends on what feels right to you.
3. The creation process. I can do memorial pet portraits in pastels or oil paint, the choice is yours. I take the photo we have chosen and bring it to life on the canvas or paper. I can send update photos if you would like to see how your portrait progresses. At this point you have only paid a deposit, you will inly pay the full amount once you are happy with the final piece.
4. Receiving the finished piece. I post finished portraits via Royal Mail special delivery. If you are local to me in Derbyshire you are more than welcome to collect.
A Note on Timing
There's no "right" time to commission a memorial portrait. Some people reach out within days of losing a pet, wanting to start something meaningful right away. Others wait months, or even years, until they feel ready. Both are completely normal, and I never rush a client through this, the portrait will mean just as much whenever you're ready for it.
If You're Not Sure Where to Start
If you're grieving and thinking about a portrait but not sure what you want yet, that's okay. Feel free to reach out and we can talk through it together — no pressure, no obligation. Sometimes it helps just to talk about your pet for a few minutes before deciding on anything at all. Only once you have decided you want to go ahead and we have worked out all the details of your memorial pet portrait commission, do you pay the deposit.
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