Pet Portrait Information for Clients

🎨 Welcome to Cari Johnston Art Custom Pet Portraits - Where Your Pet Becomes a Colourful Work of Art 🐾

Hi there, and welcome! I'm so glad you stopped by.

This space was created with passion and a deep love for the animals who shape our lives in the most meaningful ways. Here, I offer custom pet portraits that go far beyond a simple likeness, they are timeless tributes to your companion’s unique soul, captured in art that feels as personal as the bond you share.

Each portrait is thoughtfully and meticulously hand-drawn and hand-painted in by me, Cari, in my studio. Whether your furry (or feathered!) friend is goofy, regal, playful, or a little bit of everything, I create custom artwork that captures their unique spirit and personality. 

 

What You Can Expect

  • Hand-drawn and hand painted portrait
  • High-quality materials and attention to every little detail
  • A smooth, personalized experience from your photo's to final piece
  • A keepsake you'll treasure forever (or gift to someone who will!)

I'm passionate about pets, art, and the joy that comes from combining the two. So take a look around, and if you’re ready to see your pet’s personality turned into a masterpiece, I'd be honored to create something special just for you.

Thanks for visiting – we can’t wait to create something amazing together!



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✨ What happens after you've ordered:

Each custom portrait is a unique, handcrafted piece made just for you. Because of this, full payment is required before I begin your artwork. Please note that all custom pieces are non-returnable.

Once your order is placed, kindly email your chosen photo(s) to carijohnstonart@gmail.com. If you have a specific date you’d like your portrait completed by, let me know in advance. I’ll do my best to accommodate.

Turnaround time for custom work typically ranges between 4 to 16 weeks, depending on the complexity of the piece and my current workload. When your portrait is complete, I’ll send a preview for your approval before applying the final varnish.

All paintings are created on fine-quality watercolour paper and will need to be framed before hanging.



📸 Reference Photos

Great portraits begin with great photos!

Please send high-resolution, clear photos of your pet. No screenshots, please. Ideally, your pet should take up most of the frame, with their features and coloring clearly visible.

Try to send multiple images so I can reference different details (for example, one might show their eyes better, another their fur pattern). In your email, let me know which photo you’d like me to use as your main reference.

Remember: I rely on your photos to capture all those unique, beautiful details—so the better the photo, the more lifelike and personal your portrait will be.

🎨 Requests & Personal Touches

Can you make an specific requests? Absolutely! Your input is welcome! You have a rug or room you need the colors to match? Just let me know! If you'd like me to include or avoid certain colors, accessories (like collars, bows, or tags), or anything else meaningful, please mention it when you send your photos. Include clear reference images of any accessories you’d like featured.

Since watercolour is a delicate and sometimes unforgiving medium, it’s best to share all specific requests before I begin.

✏️ Changes to the Painting

Once your painting is complete, I’ll email you a preview for your approval. While I’ll always do my best to accommodate small adjustments, please understand that significant changes may not be possible after this stage due to the nature of the medium.

🖼 Prints & Merchandise

Interested in turning your pet’s portrait into prints or products? I can create custom prints in your preferred size. If you'd like your portrait available on merchandise (such as mugs, pillows, or apparel), I offer complimentary uploads to Redbubble, where you can order directly.

Please note: Redbubble is an independent company and handles all printing and shipping. They’re based in the U.S. but offer high-quality, globally shipped products.

 

📜 Copyright & Usage

Please note: As the artist, I retain all copyright to the artwork I create, including portraits of your pets. This means I may use images of the work for prints, promotions, social media, and advertising unless otherwise agreed upon.

If you would like to reproduce your portrait (for personal or commercial use), written permission and an extra fee is required. This includes making your own prints, products, or using the image in promotional materials.

💌 A Note from Me to You

Thank you so much for trusting me to create something so personal and meaningful. Every portrait I paint is an honour and I don’t take that lightly. It means the world to be invited into your story, even for a moment, and to help celebrate the deep bond you share with your pet.

I pour my heart into each piece, and I truly hope your portrait brings you as much joy as I feel while creating it.

If you ever have questions, special requests, or just want to share your love for your portrait, I’m always just an email away.

With gratitude and warmth,
Cari
Artist & Founder, Cari Johnston Art