Like many artists, I have drawn from an early age so it was no surprise that I went to Art College after taking my ‘A’ levels. I trained at the Portsmouth College of Art & Design (now known as the University of Portsmouth) in the field of Technical Illustration for 4 years in the 'old' style of illustration (i.e. no computers) where I gained an HND.

My main career is as a Technical Illustrator using Apple Macs to create ‘cut-away’ and ‘exploded views’ of engines and mechanical things for training manuals, which is a far cry from my passion for drawing, especially dogs. This has led me in the last couple of years to develop in the area of pet portraits. Since my wife suggested that I have a go, after seeing the work of another pet portrait artist, I haven’t looked back. I have taken a number of commissions for portraits of dogs, cats and horses. Most of my commissions come through word of mouth, but I have set up my own website to promote my work.

For my pet portraits I always use Caran d’Ache colour pencils onto coloured Daler Studland Mount Board. Creating the drawing, for me, is very relaxing, just like piecing together a large jig-saw. I begin with a blank area in front of me wondering where I should start first. Then, gradually it emerges to being the finished portrait staring back at me. I get a feeling of achievement, just like placing that last piece of the jig-saw. My favourite part of the commission though is when I get the opportunity to see the reaction of the pet owner when I present them with their finished picture. Pets are very cherished by their owners and it is lovely to provide them with a lasting memory of their ‘loved ones’ .

Contact Details:

E-mail address: art[AT]nickspetportraits.com

Website: www.nickspetportraits.com

Telephone: Mobile 07828944156