Pet Portrait Commissions in Soft Pastel

Pet Portrait Commissions and Bespoke Pastel Paintings

I’ve been painting to commission for over 20 years, creating bespoke pet portraits and pastel paintings that capture meaningful moments and preserve them in a lasting, personal way. Many clients return over the years to commission further artwork, and I value the friendships that often grow through the process.

Whether it’s a beloved pet, a favourite horse, a treasured home or a portrait of someone special, every commission has its own unique story. Meeting the people and animals behind those stories is one of the most rewarding parts of my work.

Commissioned Artwork

Every commission is unique. Explore a selection of bespoke pastel paintings created for clients over the years.

portrait of a labrador in soft pastels by Nina Squire

Dog Portraits

Portrait of The Kings Troop by Nina Squire

Horses

Portraits

Houses

What People Say

“Nina has captured the elegance, strength and personality of my horse beautifully. The portrait is wonderfully lifelike, but it also has warmth and atmosphere that make it feel like much more than a photograph.”
Wendy

“From the first conversation through to the finished portrait, Nina made the whole process feel personal and reassuring. The painting is beautifully detailed and has become one of the most treasured pieces in our home.”
Emma

“The finished portrait looks so much like her that it feels as though she is in the room with us. Nina has an extraordinary ability to capture the personality and spirit of an animal.”
Mark

“We commissioned the portrait as a special gift and were absolutely delighted. Nina captured his gentle nature perfectly, and the recipient was over the moon when they opened it.”
Katy

“Our portrait means even more to us now that our dog is no longer with us. Nina created such a sensitive and lifelike reminder of him, and we are so grateful to have it.”
Mike

“The painting exceeded all my expectations. It captures the presence and character of my horse so accurately and now has pride of place in my home.”
Jane

“Your beautiful picture of Tia reduced my husband to tears! He is really thrilled with it, so thank you for providing the best ever present.”
Amanda

How to commission a pastel painting

Commissioning a painting begins with a conversation. Tell me a little about the painting you’d like, why it is special to you and whether the finished artwork is for your own home or a gift for someone else.

You don’t need to know the perfect size or have everything decided before contacting me. Once I understand what you have in mind, I can help you consider the photographs, composition and size before confirming the price and expected timescale.

Commissioning a pet portrait

A pet portrait is about much more than accurately painting an animal’s appearance. I want to capture the expression, personality and little details that make them instantly recognisable to the people who know them best.

I prefer to meet you and your animal if I can. I get a sense of the character and personality and then I usually work from photographs, you’re welcome to send me your favourite photos too. Clear photographs taken in natural light are helpful, especially when I can see the eyes, expression and true colour of the coat.

Please don’t worry if your pet is no longer with you or if your photographs aren’t perfect. Send me what you have and I can help you identify which photo may provide the best starting point. It is also helpful to tell me about their character and any particular features or expressions that you would love the portrait to capture.

Commissioning a favourite place

A painting of a treasured home, coastal view or favourite landscape can preserve the atmosphere and memories connected with somewhere special.

Send me your photographs and tell me what the place means to you. It may be a family home, a favourite holiday view, a beach you return to regularly or somewhere connected with an important occasion.

We can discuss which photograph best represents the place and what you would most like the painting to capture, perhaps the light, the season, the surrounding landscape or one detail you love.

Agreeing your commission

Before I begin, we will agree on the subject, composition, size, price and anticipated completion date. I will also explain what happens next and discuss the safest options for collecting or delivering the finished pastel painting.

If the portrait is intended as a birthday, anniversary or Christmas gift, please contact me as early as possible so that we can discuss your preferred date.

Every commission is personal, and I want the process to feel friendly and reassuring from the first conversation through to receiving the finished painting.

Contact me to discuss your commission