C O M M I S S I O N I N G a n O R I G I N A L P A I N T I N G

Every dog has a personality, an expression, and a story that deserves to be preserved. Whether your companion is a beloved family member or the welcoming face of a favorite business, my goal is to create a portrait that captures not only a likeness, but also the spirit that makes your dog unforgettable.

Every portrait begins by getting to know your dog. We talk about the personality you'd most like to capture, then I spend time photographing and designing the painting before a brush touches the canvas. If travel isn't practical—or if we're creating a portrait in memory of a beloved dog—I can often work from your own photographs. The key is having excellent reference images, especially clear close-ups, and enough information to understand your dog's personality and expressions.

The portrait is hand-painted in my studio using museum-quality archival materials, including handmade Vasari oil paints on Claessens Belgian linen, ensuring the longevity of your keepsake.

Portraits begin at $2,500.

Final pricing depends on the pose (classic head-study to full figure action-shot), the complexity of the background, and canvas size.

Framing, shipping, and out-of-the-ordinary travel expenses are additional.

I do not include framing in my portrait prices because there is an endless supply of molding choices and prices. I believe that a frame should be chosen by the owners of the portrait to be in harmony with their taste and the setting where the portrait will hang. But I'm always happy to help with framing selections.

Commission prices are for the original oil painting. Copyright and reproduction rights remain with the artist and The Watermark Studio unless other arrangements are made in writing.

The Process

  • Consultation — We talk about your dog, your ideas, and where the portrait will live.

  • Photography & Design — After one or two meetings, I plan the composition in collaboration with you. And a 50% non-refundable deposit is due.

  • Studio Painting — The portrait is painted entirely by hand in oils.

  • Final Approval — I like to present my portraits in person for the first reveal because photographs on a screen never do them justice. If impractical travel prevents this, I will send a photo before shipping.

Watch a Portrait Come to Life
in my slideshow, Painting Duffy Morris, for a behind-the-scenes look at the creative process.
https://watermarkstudio.com/d-slideshow
(If you're viewing on a phone, you may need to switch to landscape mode to read the captions.)

Thank you for your interest in my work!
If you're considering a portrait—or simply have questions about the process, I'd love to hear from you.

Karen Killian
The Watermark Studio
PO Box 111
Tryon, North Carolina 28782
860 . 460 . 5787
kk@watermarkstudio.com