Commissions

Create a Portrait
You’ll Treasure

A portrait of your horse or pet is a beautiful way to honour their life, character and relationship with you.

Joanne will create a custom-made artwork which will evoke love, joy and memories every time you look at it. Show your love and loyalty through a personalised and quality painting.

The Commission Experience

Mediums

Jo works in oils, watercolours, coloured pencils and graphite — each chosen for its particular look and feel.

  • Oils — Rich, buttery and ideal for fine detail and depth. Long-lasting and highly prized for heirloom pieces.

  • Watercolours — Luminous and fluid; great for soft backgrounds or layered, illustrative detail.

  • Coloured Pencils — Perfect for lifelike fur and vibrant colour. Jo layers many tones for texture and realism.

  • Graphite — Classic tonal work with subtle textures and a refined, timeless finish.

Step by Step Process

1 Initial Consultation

Send your ideas, photos, and preferred medium, and Joanne will guide you in choosing the best reference and background. Each portrait is carefully crafted from clear, high-quality photographs and finished with professional materials.

2. Quote and Agreement

Prices depend on size, medium, and complexity. A 50% deposit confirms your commission.

3. Artwork Creation

Joanne works in your chosen medium — graphite, coloured pencil, watercolour, or oil — providing progress updates and photos as your portrait develops.

4. Artwork and Final Payment

You’ll receive a high-resolution image of the completed artwork. Once approved, the remaining balance is due.

5. Delivery

Portraits arrive unframed, beautifully presented in a cream mount or as a finished canvas, ready to frame or gift. Postage and packing costs are calculated separately.

6. Aftercare

Jo will include framing suggestions and care instructions.

Typical turnaround: 2–5 months depending on size, complexity and season. If you need a faster turnaround (e.g., a gift or event), ask at enquiry — Jo may be able to accommodate with a rush fee. Extra time is advised for Christmas orders.

Photo Tips for the Best Results

Clear, natural photos create the most accurate and expressive portraits.

  • Use natural light (outdoors or near a window).

  • Take photos at eye level to avoid distortion.

  • Make sure the eyes and face are in sharp focus.

  • Send several angles — front, ¾ view and side.

  • Keep backgrounds simple and uncluttered.

  • Avoid filters or heavy edits.

  • Use a helper with a toy or treat if needed.

  • For small pets, holding them on your arm or shoulder gives a great headshot.

Pricing Guide

Prices vary according to the size, chosen medium and the complexity of the subject. Detailed backgrounds or portraits with multiple animals may attract an additional fee.

A4 Graphite / Single-colour Drawing:
From $300

A4 Full-colour (Watercolour or Coloured Pencil):
From $500

Oil Paintings:
Prices start at a higher price point due to material costs and extended working time

What’s Included

  • Consultation and guidance on your ideas and photos

  • Development of composition and design

  • Detailed sketching and completion of the artwork

  • Presentation in a pale, complementary mount (if applicable)

Testimonials

  • "Once again, I have never seen such an amazing portrait — it’s just beautiful and it will be with me until the day I die!"

    – Cheryl K.

  • "Thank you Jo for the amazing portrait of our beloved Cleo, we now have our beautiful girl back home with us"

    – Kylie

  • Like it ??!! We love it !!!!!❣️❣️it made my husband cry

    – Lex Eames

Create a Portrait You’ll Treasure

Each commission is crafted with care and detail, capturing the true spirit of your animal.

Commission Your Artwork