Karen Hartnell - Wildlife & Pet Artist

Watercolour Painting of White-Tailed Eagle

2012-01-24T05:02:00.000-08:00

Following up my previous post, here is the finished portrait of a young White-Tailed Eagle from the East Scotland Sea Eagle Project's 2011 release (this eagle was wing tagged 'Red P', I haven't painted the tag).

I liked the way the late afternoon sun was catching its feathers as they blew in the breeze.

White-Tailed Sea Eagle Watercolour Painting

2012-01-16T09:23:00.000-08:00

My first wildlife piece for 2012 is a watercolour portrait of one of the east Scotland White-Tailed Eagles: a youngster released in 2011.

Making progress

I saw this particular bird sitting in a tree on a lovely sunny winter's afternoon. It was quite windy and it's feathers were blowing in the wind. This particular eagle wears a red tag (for 2011) with the letter P, I've omitted that from the portrait. It was the second time I had seen this eagle, as it was spotted during a sea eagle radio tracking afternoon I did with the RSPB in October.

www.karen-hartnell.co.uk

All images are copyright and may not be reproduced in any way.

Labrador Puppy Limited Edition Print

2012-01-06T02:15:00.000-08:00

A limited edition print is available in my online store of my pencil portrait of a mischievious yellow Labrador puppy!

Limited edition of 50. A3 size, 420 x 297mm / 16.5 x 11.7in including white border, on natural coated art paper, 250gsm. Each print is individually signed and numbered by myself. Limited Edition Prints at www.karen-hartnell.co.uk

Fundraising for Mull's White-Tailed Eagles

2012-01-06T02:12:00.000-08:00

I first caught sight of the magnificent White-Tailed Eagle (sea eagle) when the Mull pair Frisa and Skye were featured on BBC’s Springwatch programme, raising their chicks Itchy and Scratchy. I couldn’t imagine seeing a ‘flying barn door’, as they are commonly referred, but I hoped that one day I would be lucky enough to spot one.

Since 2007 the White-Tailed Eagle has been re-introduced in the east of Scotland, not far from where I live. I had my first ever White-Tailed Eagle sighting over my back garden of all places in August 2010, one of that year’s youngsters not long released. That day cemented my love for the White-Tailed Eagle. Unfortunately, it is difficult trying to study and get artistic research of one of Britain’s rarest birds! I took part in an eagle radio tracking afternoon in October 2011 with the RSPB which gave me a further five sightings and I have had a few more since then.

It is an amazing feeling when you see a White-Tailed Eagle flying free in the skies of Scotland. The hard work by the reintroduction programmes past and present is now giving us the opportunity to view these magnificent birds once again. I remember being amazed by Frisa and Skye when they were on Springwatch. I want to capture my passion for the White-Tailed Eagle in my artwork - and that gave me an idea …

I thought about raising funds through my art to help the Eagles. My current fundraiser is to donate £5 from each of the limited edition prints sold of my White-Tailed Eagle portrait to Mull’s White-Tailed Eagle Project. This will go towards safeguarding the future of these amazing birds on Mull and a little thank you to Skye and Frisa for inspiring me all of those years ago. I have yet to visit Mull, but I’m hoping that is something I shall have the opportunity to do in the not too distant future … I’m sure there will be plenty of artistic inspiration there!

Fundraising for Mull’s White-Tailed Eagles

For further information on Mull’s White-Tailed Eagles visit their website:

http://www.rspb.org.uk/wildlife/tracking/mulleagles/

To purchase a limited edition print of my White-Tailed Eagle drawing, please visit my online shop. Print run limited to 50.
www.karen-hartnell.co.uk

White-Tailed Sea Eagle Drawing

2011-10-26T02:31:00.000-07:00

This is my recent White-Tailed Sea Eagle drawing finally complete. I am so pleased with this work.

It is A3 in size, 420 x 297 mm / 16.5 x 11.7 in. I am producing limited edition prints of this work and these will be for sale on my website shortly.

For more White- Tailed Sea Eagle artwork, please have a look at my website www.karen-hartnell.co.uk where the Eagles have their own gallery.

I recently had a fantastic afternoon radio tracking the east coast sea eagles. You can read about that here White Tailed Sea Eagle Tracking 12 Oct.

© All photos and text are copyright and may not be reproduced in any way.

Latest Work in Progress - White-Tailed Sea Eagle

2011-09-03T03:31:00.000-07:00

I'm currently working on a portrait of a White-Tailed Sea Eagle from a photo I took of a captive bird (the only way I can get a good close-up shot!).

It's nearing completion and I'm really pleased with how it is coming along. It is taking a lot of patience, so many feathers, but I know the hard work will be worth it.

Here's how it is currently looking :

From this, close-up of head drawing in progress:

To This:
www.karen-hartnell.co.uk

All images are copyright and may not be reproduced in any form

Derwent's Onyx Graphite Pencils

2011-09-01T08:22:00.000-07:00

This particular art product deserves a mention, it's my best art purchase this year.

Derwent's Onyx Graphite pencils are available in dark and medium leads. I couldn't wait to try them out, particularly for sketching. I prefer to sketch in soft B leads, but found that I was forever sharpening them down to a stump of a pencil before I knew it.

The Onyx Graphite has out-performed the 8 and 9 Bs. It sharpens to a nice point and doesn't wear down as quickly.

It's now my prefered pencil for sketching and here's a few drawings I have done using purely the Onyx Graphite.

www.karen-hartnell.co.uk

All images are copyright and may not be reproduced.

Christmas Commissions 2011

2011-08-22T09:19:00.000-07:00

*Limited places remaining for Christmas commissions*

Portrait Christmas Commissions
Watercolour paintings, graphite pencil drawings, sketches

Please note: Bookings are not held until you have accepted the commission quotation and have notified me that you are happy for me to go ahead with the work - during the busy period in the weeks leading up to Christmas, it would be helpful if you wish to go ahead with a commission to let me know as soon as possible.

I work on Christmas commissions on a first-come-first-served basis and usually start working on these from September onwards.

I would advise to book early to avoid disappointment.I do not mount or frame paintings. I can prioritise commissions so they can be mailed to you in time for you to get framed before Christmas, so please bear this in mind and let me know when booking.

Even if you feel you may have left it too late, please email me as I may be able to fit you in depending on the composition or if I've had a cancellation.
See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for detailed information and price lists, or Click here to download price list

Cartoon Christmas Commissions

Looking for a special gift? Why not turn the antics of your pet or a friend/family member's pet into a cartoon. Various sizes available. Capture your pet's antics, interests or a memorable moment in an original watercolour painting.

See Cartoon Commissions page for further information and prices.

Some examples of previous Christmas-themed cartoons:

You can contact me on portraitspets@aol.com to discuss commissions and for a no-obligation quotation.

Please note that sometimes emails don't arrive especially if attaching large photos, so if you don't hear back from me, I've likely not received your email.

Greetings Cards

2011-07-29T00:58:00.000-07:00

I now have a selection of greetings cards in my Online Store which feature my artwork.

Wildlife greetings cards.

White-Tailed Sea Eagle greetings cards.
Labrador greetings cards.
Scottish landscape greetings cards.

Sketches: Otter & Red Deer Stag

2011-07-19T02:10:00.000-07:00

A couple of recent sketches using dark graphite onyx pencils.

Otter
Sketch from a photo I took of one swimming in a lochan near Gairloch.

Red Deer Stag
Even the Monarch of the Glen needs to relax!

Facebook & Twitter

2011-07-06T02:17:00.000-07:00

I am on Twitter and have a Facebook page where you can keep up to date with my news. My Facebook page also has competitions, and special discount offers.

Facebook: Karen Hartnell - Artist

Twitter: @Karen_theArtist

Puppy Mischief - Labrador Drawing

2011-07-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

A new Labrador Puppy drawing of a yellow Labrador puppy called Walter.

I did this one as a detailed drawing using graphite pencils, a lot of hours were put into it. I also tried out a few new pencil techniques, such as indenting and blending.

The main work was in the grass, so much concentration involved! It was worth it, I'm very pleased with the result.
A couple of work in progress photos:

Please note all photos, images, and artwork on this blog are copyrighted
and may not be reproduced in any way.

White-Tailed Sea Eagle Painting

2011-06-29T02:14:00.001-07:00

A recent painting in acrylics of a White-Tailed Sea Eagle.

'The Eagle Has Landed'
Acrylics, 18" x 14"

I chose to paint this one in acrylics as I felt that medium would lend itself better to the composition than my usual watercolours. I'm not a frequent user of acrylic, so I found it quite difficult to begin with, and I nearly gave up half way through.

I'm really pleased with the result. The water has turned out well, and I feel that you can almost hear a splash as the eagle hits the surface!

Labrador Drawing

2011-06-21T05:43:00.000-07:00

Being a Labrador owner I just love drawing Labs!

Here's a selection of my Labrador Sketches. See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and examples of my work.

Dark (onyx) graphite

Charcoal

(a Labrador Flatcoat cross)

All images are copyright and may not be reproduced in anyway.

Scotland Landscapes for Sale

2011-06-21T01:25:00.000-07:00

A selection of my Scottish landscape paintings that are currently for sale in my Online Store

Ben Nevis
View to Knoydart from Skye
Eilean Donan Castle
Schiehallion
Stob Dearg, Buachaille Etive Mor

Portrait Commissions - Price Lists

2011-06-06T06:51:00.000-07:00

The Price List has been updated January 2012:
Download PDF Price List or view on my website at http://www.portraitsofpets.co.uk/portrait_commissions.html

Portrait Commissions - Information

2011-06-06T06:49:00.000-07:00

Additional Costs: Backgrounds, Full-Body Portraits & Adding Missing Items
The price for portraits including backgrounds varies from composition to composition. I can provide several quotations, giving various size and background options: a fine detailed background will cost more than one with a washed in background. The same also applies to a full-body portrait rather than just a head shot. I will be happy to email examples of the various background options.

Portraits can be composed with a different background to the photo supplied. For example, replacing an urban setting with countryside.

The portrait shown to the left was done from a combination of photos of the dog and his owner asked if I could add some pheasants into the foreground. Because of the addition of the pheasants, I worked out a rough sketch of the layout which I emailed to my client to approve before I drew up and commenced the main portrait. The background is a combination of a detailed foreground with a washed in background.

Missing items such as ears and paws can also be added to complete the portrait - the price may increase according to the work involved.

If you have a budget and are not sure what kind of painting you can commission for that amount, I will be happy to advise.

Photo Requirements
To best capture the subject matter, there are a few pointers regarding photographs so that I can get the best from your images.

Ensure the image is clear and in focus.

A natural light source on the pet's face shows up detail better than photos taken using a flash, as this can wash out colour/detail.

The larger the painting you require the better the photo I need - it's not easy working from small or out-of-focus images to produce a large-scale painting as they lack detail.

The larger the digital photo size, the better, as this will show up more detail when printed.

Low resolution images, such as those taken with some mobile phones or photos that have been cropped, are not the best to work from as the image can be very small once printed out or pixelated.

I am happy to have a look at photos and advise which would be the best to work from.

How to Send Your Photos
Please email me any images you wish me to look at, you can send just one or several, noting any favourites.

I will always confirm when I have received photos, so if you don't hear back from me I've likely not received them - this can happen when sending large file sizes.

Hard copy photos can also be posted to me and these will be returned when sending the art work.

Two or More Pets in a Painting?
If you want a painting with two or more pets in it, then don't worry too much about trying to get them to sit still together. Two separate similar images can be put together to create a portrait, either as 'floating' headshots or side-by-side.

Delivery
Once the art work is ready for approval, a scan/photo of it will be emailed to you.

If you require any adjustments to the work, these will be done and then a revised scan/photo emailed to you for reapproval.

Once approved, payment will be required. See 'Payment Methods' below.

Art work will be despatched once payment has been received, usually within 2-7 days. An email is sent to confirm posting. Art work will need to be signed for on delivery.

Items are posted in board-backed envelopes or similar.

If I have at least a month's notice for art work required by a specific date, this timeframe should be achievable. I can sometimes fit in last-minute commissions, so please email to enquire.

Early booking is advisable leading up to the Christmas period.

Payment Methods
Once the art work is complete and approved then payment is required.

Payment can only be made by cheque, or credit/debit card securely via Paypal. The details you require will be emailed upon completion.

You do not need to have a Paypal account to pay using a credit or debit card. I can email a Paypal invoice to you and the easy-to follow instructions will guide you through the check-out process, similar to any online store.

Overseas Addresses
I am happy to accept overseas commissions. Please contact me for a quotation, which will be calculated based on airmail costs and the current exchange rate.

Payment via Paypal only, in either US Dollars or £s sterling.

Contact me at portraitspets@aol.com

Cartoon Commission Information & Price List

2011-06-06T05:29:00.000-07:00

Information taken from my website: Cartoon Commissions

My chocolate labrador, Corbie, is the inspiration behind my cartoon characters - Corbie Pup & Co!

I started drawing cartoons of hedgehogs when I was at school and did those for several years, creating comic strips and stories. After moving to Scotland, I worked on sheep cartoons after witnessing their antics here and then I thought it was about time I 'cartooned' my Labrador!

A Cartoon would make a unique gift for birthdays, Christmas, Valentine's Day, Mother's/Father's Day, etc.

All I need to create your unique cartoon are photos of the subjects, information about their antics, interests or anything amusing that they have done or get up to. The more information you can tell me, the more I have to choose from to create the cartoon. Specific messages can be added, for example 'Happy Birthday'.

All cartoons are original watercolour paintings on watercolour paper, painted to order. They are supplied unframed and unmounted.

Visit the Cartoons Gallery page to see previous gift art cartoon work. You can see a work in progress of a cartoon from sketch to final painting on my Work In Progress page.

Below is a Price Guide for cartoon commissions and delivery costs are detailed also. I have recently reviewed this to reflect the increase in work involved based on the number of main characters included, and to set out the delivery options available.

Each cartoon idea is sketched in pencil and a scan emailed to you to check prior to commencement of the final painting. This will allow for any changes to be made, caption adjustments, etc, before finalising in paint and ink.

Email me for a no-obligation quotation for a Gift Art Cartoon designed for your own special occasion.

Baby Name Art & Cartoon Character Paintings
I can create a cartoon painting themed with characters of your choice (either your own pets or favourite cartoon characters - for example, Winnie the Pooh), complete with the child's name, date/time of birth and weight.

Paintings can also be created from favourite cartoon characters.

Cartoon Commissions Price List
Size	Price
Sizes can be a different ratio to that listed. For example an 11" x 8" can be changed to 13" x 6" for same price if it suits the cartoon better.	Up to 2 characters per cartoon	Up to 5 characters per cartoon	Up to 9 characters per cartoon
7" x 5"	£25	£35	£45
8" x 6"	£30	£40	£50
10" x 7"	£35	£45	£55
11" x 8" (approx. A4)	£40	£50	£60
14" x 10"	£50	£65	£80
16" x 12" (approx A3)	£65	£85	£105
Delivery Costs I will only post paintings using methods that will need to be signed for upon receipt - 1st Recorded Delivery or next-day Special Delivery. Items over £41 are not covered by Recorded Delivery so will need to be sent using the Special Delivery option. Up to and including 11" x 8" size Items up to £41 £1.50 1st Recorded Delivery insured up to £41 £5.45 Next-day Special Delivery option Items Over £41 £5.45 Next-day Special Delivery. Fully insured for total value (up to £500). Sizes over 11" x 8" Items up to £41 £1.90 1st Recorded Delivery insured up to £41 £5.90 Next-day Special Delivery option Items Over £41 £5.90 Next-day Special Delivery. Fully insured for total value (up to £500).
To discuss a cartoon painting, please email me on portraitspets@aol.com Other size options are available on request.

White-Tailed Eagle & Chick Drawing

2011-05-26T05:52:00.000-07:00

I had the idea for this drawing a few months ago, after watching filmed footage of White-Tailed Eagles with their chicks. They may be a large bird, but they are so gentle with their young.

Obviously, I'm not able to get anywhere near a nest so I did this drawing based on some video footage I had seen and using plenty of research photos for the detail. I wanted to get the look between the two just right.

I choose to work in Derwent onyx graphite, as opposed to highly detailed graphite work using various leads.

Initial sketch idea

The final drawing

Portraits of Pets website

2011-05-20T07:20:00.001-07:00

Update 24 May - due to a 26 hour powercut in the village (bad storms, trees brought lines down) I wasn't able to renew the hosting for my site in time so it lapsed and is currently down. Host's temp page says 'This web site has been suspended', but I haven't done anything naughty, the hosting has just lapsed. Should be back up and running tomorrow, all being well.

*****************************

Please note that on Monday 23 May the site may be down for a day or two.

I know people who use Internet Explorer 8 and above have been having DNS access issues. I'm going to try and resolve this as no one has been able to find out exactly what has been the problem or is causing access issues. It is likely something at viewer's end, rather than my website, but as a last resort...! It may or may not work!

If you have not been able to access www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for any reason, please email me on portraitspets@aol.com and I can send you any relevant information by email.

White-Tailed Sea Eagle Painting

2011-05-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

14" x 10" watercolour painting of two White-Tailed Sea Eagles in flight, a youngster (left) and an adult.

Cat Portraits

2011-04-13T02:03:00.000-07:00

A selection of cat portraits - further information can be found on my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

Cat pencil drawings - graphite pencil:

The following two drawings have their eyes painted in watercolour at the client's request. I think it is very effective, brings a different dimension to the portrait.
Cat paintings:

All images are copyright and may not be reproduced in anyway.

Cocker Spaniel Art

2011-04-12T08:33:00.000-07:00

Drawing of a Cocker Spaniel

Visit my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Springer Spaniel Art

2011-04-12T08:30:00.000-07:00

Recent Springer Spaniel portraits

Springer Spaniel paintings:

See my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Golden Retriever Art

2011-04-12T08:26:00.000-07:00

Recent Golden Retriever portraits.

Golden Retriever paintings:

Golden Retriever drawings - graphite pencil:

See my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

German Shepherd Drawing

2011-04-12T08:24:00.000-07:00

Graphite pencil drawing of a German Shepherd dog

Visit my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Yellow Labrador & Fox Red Labrador Art

2011-04-12T08:20:00.001-07:00

A selection of portraits of Yellow and Fox Red Labradors

For more information about my Pet Portraits please visit my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

Pet Cartoons

2011-04-12T08:17:00.001-07:00

A selection of recent Cartoon commissions - each is personalised, showing specific interests/pet's character, etc.

Chocolate Labrador Art

2011-04-12T08:10:00.000-07:00

New portraits of Chocolate Labradors

Chocolate Labrador paintings:

Chocolate Labrador drawing - graphite pencil:
For more information about my Pet Portraits please visit my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

Black Labrador Art

2011-04-12T08:05:00.001-07:00

New portraits of Black Labradors

Black Labrador paintings:

Black Labrador drawings - graphite pencil:

For more information about my Pet Portraits please visit my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

New Baby Name Art / Cartoons

2011-04-12T07:56:00.001-07:00

Theme based on 'The Snowman'

Theme based on client's pets

Lady & the Tramp cartoon painting

White-Tailed Sea Eagles

2011-03-07T07:37:00.000-08:00

These are my first pencil drawings I have done of White-Tailed Sea Eagles. Both drawings are approximately 8" x 6" in size.

This particular pair of eagles are Isle of Mull residents, Skye (male) and Frisa (female). They were stars of BBC's Springwatch programme, which followed the progress of their young chicks Itchy and Scratchy a few years ago.

Skye

Frisa

Greylag Geese

2011-03-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

A watercolour painting of Greylag Geese on Loch Leven, Kinross-shire - 8" x 6"

www.karen-hartnell.co.uk

Blue Tit Drawing

2011-02-10T03:55:00.000-08:00

Drawing in graphite pencil on A4-sized paper of a Blue Tit

Christmas Special Offer: Painting + Cards

2010-11-02T02:40:00.001-07:00

*Special Offer* Deadline for orders is Friday 5th Nov.

Christmas Painting + 12 Cards of Your Own Pet

One miniature Christmas-themed painting of one pet, approx 6" x 4", plus a pack of 12 cards (with envelopes) featuring the painting, A6 size. Painting & Cards will be a similar style to my Christmas Labrador Puppy collection in my Online Shop.

Price for 1 miniature painting + pack of 12 cards similar style to those on sale in my online store: £30, plus p&p £2 1st class recorded.

Email PortraitsPets@aol.com for further information or to book a commission.

Christmas Commissions - Update 30 Nov

2010-10-26T07:57:00.000-07:00

30 Nov 2010 update ** Now Fully Booked for 2010 **

Please note: Bookings are not held until you have accepted the commission quotation and have notified me that you are happy for me to go ahead with the work - during the busy period up to Christmas, it would be helpful if you wish to go ahead with a commission to let me know as soon as possible.

Portrait Christmas Commissions
Watercolour paintings, pencil drawings, charcoal sketches, pen sketches

I try and work on these as they come in to keep on top of it all, unless I have work which needs to be completed prior to Christmas. The last date I can currently take commissions to be completed and posted in time for Christmas (subject to size/composition) is 5th December - last posting date will be Wednesday 22nd.

I would advise to book early to avoid disappointment.

If you require the work by an earlier date to allow you to get the work framed in time for Christmas, please bear this in mind and let me know when booking. I do not mount or frame paintings.

Even if you feel you may have left it too late, please email me as I may be able to fit you in depending on the composition or if I've had a cancellation.

See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for detailed information and price lists.

Cartoon Christmas Commissions

Looking for a special gift? Why not turn the antics of your pet or a friend/family member's pet into a cartoon. Various sizes available. Capture your pet's antics, interests or a memorable moment in an original watercolour painting. A Christmas-themed cartoon painting would make an original alternative to a Christmas card.

See Cartoon Commissions page for further information and prices.

Some examples of previous Christmas-themed cartoons:

You can contact me on portraitspets@aol.com to discuss commissions and for a no-obligation quotation.

Please note that sometimes emails don't arrive especially if attaching large photos, so if you don't hear back from me, I've likely not received your email.

Due to work load, I can no longer accept overseas Christmas Commissions for 2010.

Labrador Christmas Cards

2010-10-05T02:14:00.000-07:00

I have been working on a range of Labrador Christmas Cards. They feature Labrador puppies and are available in each of the colours: black, yellow and chocolate, two designs of each colour.

Various pack options are available to purchase from my Online Shop: price for a single card £0.75, pack of 6 cards £4 - click here to visit store.

Thanks to my lovely Labrador puppy models: Sherpa, Guiness, Teagan and Corbie!

Email PortraitsPets@aol.com for further information.

New Gundog Paintings

2010-07-06T06:44:00.000-07:00

Two recent paintings of Labradors that I have completed. They are both minitures, only 6" x 4" in size.

"Winter Games" - Black Labrador, Dream

"Beside the Seaside" - Chocolate Labrador, Fudge

My First Insect!

2010-06-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

I've wanted to challenge myself to paint things I wouldn't normally choose. So I asked my friends on Facebook to link to any images I could paint. This was the first one. I've never painted an insect before, so it really was something completely different.

I was trying not to go too detailed, but I find that hard as I like to put as much detail as I can into pieces. I really like this one though, the colours are very summery. Not sure exactly of the type of wasp or bee it is.

Charity Auction - Portrait of Reuben (Monty Halls Great Escape)

2010-05-11T09:33:00.000-07:00

Charity Auction *ENDED*

Portrait of Reuben* - canine star of "Monty Halls' Great Escape" series

Thank you to everyone who bid on this auction. It has raised £250 for Holly Hedge, which is fantastic! In fact, it raised £500, as the very generous winning bidder doubled his donation!

* UPDATE 7 June - Monty has very kindly offered to sign the portrait for the winner, and possibly Reubs will paw print it too! So get those bids rolling in before the auction closes on Friday - the generousity of Reuben's fans has been fantastic so far!

A scan of the painting up for auction.
Click to enlarge

Winning bid:
£250.00

After watching the series "Monty Halls' Great Escape" last year and enjoying the amusing antics of Monty's dog Reuben, I thought it would be a nice idea to paint his portrait and then auction it to raise money for a worthy cause. You can see Reubs having a great time in the Outer Hebrides in the current series "Monty Halls' Great Hebridean Escape" on Wednesdays, BBC2 at 9pm.

Reuben was adopted by Monty from Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary in Bristol prior to their first adventure in North West Scotland. The current financial climate has hit Holly Hedge hard and all money raised by this auction will be donated to them. I’m hoping Reuben’s fans’ generosity will go somewhere towards helping the Sanctuary continue to rescue dogs and cats from the Bristol area, and enable them to find a loving home just like Reuben has. For further information about Holly Hedge, please visit their website www.hollyhedge.org.uk

I have received these kind comments from Monty with regards to the painting and worthy cause which all proceeds of the sale will be donated to:

"Thanks so much for your wonderful portrait of Reubs. You've really captured the likeness perfectly, and everyone I've showed it to has commented on the uncanny similarity to the real thing!

And also thank you for offering to donate any money you raise from the sale to Holly Hedge. It will mean the world to them, as they are genuinely struggling, and any money that comes in now is an absolute lifeline. They really do a very good job with the animals they take in, and hopefully if they can make it through the next few months they'll be okay in the longer term." – Monty Halls

Auction Information

▪ The portrait up for auction is an original watercolour painting and is 11" x 8" in size. It will not be framed.

▪ The auction will run for four weeks from Friday 14th May until midnight on Friday 11th June. Bids received after the closing time will not be counted.

▪ To place a bid, please email me on auction@portraitsofpets.co.uk with your name and bid amount - if you would like to be notified by email if you are outbid, please let me know. I will reply to all emails to let you know that your bid has been received. Please note that I will aim to reply within 24 hours, although it may take me longer to respond at the weekend.

▪ The current highest bid amount will be updated on this page. If two bids of the same amount are received, then the first received will be the highest bidder.

▪ The successful bidder will be notified by email once the auction has finished, and I will also provide details of where to sent payment: this will be paid direct to Holly Hedge. Holly Hedge accepts online payments via JustGiving. The painting will be sent to the winning bidder once the donation has been paid.

A huge thank you to Monty and Suze for their help organising this auction and providing the lovely photos of Reuben for me to work from – and not forgetting a thank you to Reuben too!

For further information about Monty Halls and his current television series and Holly Hedge Animal Sanctuary, please visit:

www.montyhalls.co.uk
www.hollyhedge.org.uk

The information above is copied from my website: www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

Scottish Landscape: Knoydart From Skye

2010-05-10T10:20:00.000-07:00

A recent Scottish landscape painting I have done. I tried to capture the colours of the landscape, rather than focussing on great detail.

The view is from Skye looking across the grey-green waters of Sound of Sleat to the mountains of Knoydart.

Size approx 15" x 7"

Reuben - The TV Star!

2010-04-22T02:02:00.000-07:00

Over the past few months I have been working on and off on a portrait of Reuben - the canine star of Monty Halls' Great Escape series.

Last year Monty's office very kindly emailed me a selection of photos of Reuben to be able to work from and my aim is to auction the painting for charity to try and raise funds for a special cause. I will annouce details as soon as it is finalised.

Reuben can be seen on our screens on Wednesday BBC2 9pm in the new series Monty Halls' Great Hebridean Escape set, as you've probably guessed, in the Hebrides. After watching the first episode last night, Reubs is still up to his funny antics.He's such a lucky dog to go on these trips, having been rehomed from a rescue centre by Monty prior to the Applecross Great Escape.

Although Reuben is a German Shepherd, I'm sure he must have the Labrador breed in him ... he's so much like my Lab with his funny antics and facial expressions !!

I happened to be visiting that very beach at Sand while they were there on their first "Escape", but didn't know it at the time until the series aired and I realised the setting looked very familiar... although we didn't have any lovely views of Skye the day we visited, just fog and more fog! Here's a photo, without those glorious views...

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Dog Portraits

2010-04-13T01:37:00.000-07:00

A selection of various dog breeds I have painted. See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for more information and galleries.

Pug painting

Yorkshire Terrier Painting

Miniature Schnauzer Painting

Samoyed Painting (6" x 4")

Staffordshire Bull Terrier Painting

Jack Russell Terrier Paintings

2010-04-13T01:34:00.000-07:00

A selection of my Jack Russell Terrier paintings. See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and galleries of my work.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Labrador Pencil Portraits

2010-04-13T01:29:00.000-07:00

A selection of my Labrador Pencil Portraits. See www.labrador-portraits.co.uk for more information and galleries of my work.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Website Update

2010-04-12T09:03:00.000-07:00

I have just finished redesigning my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

I have also got a couple of new domain names which point to my site and they are:
www.labrador-portraits.co.uk and www.labrador-paintings.co.uk as Labradors are my most popular breed to paint.

I hope you like the new look!

Chocolate Labrador Paintings

2010-03-29T05:03:00.000-07:00

A selection of paintings of Chocolate Labradors - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

My chocolate Labrador, Corbie, is a useful model to have!

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Yellow / Fox Red Labrador Paintings

2010-03-29T05:00:00.000-07:00

A selection of paintings of Yellow and Fox Red Labradors - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Black Labrador Paintings

2010-03-29T04:57:00.000-07:00

A selection of paintings of Black Labradors - see www.labrador-paintings.co.uk for further information and online galleries

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

A Pug Portrait Painting

2010-03-29T04:56:00.000-07:00

A portrait of a Pug - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Black Labrador Painting

2010-03-25T02:17:00.000-07:00

A new painting of a black Labrador, including background and detailed foreground.

See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries, including a Labrador-specific gallery.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

German Shepherd Dog Paintings

2010-03-25T02:14:00.000-07:00

Some of my German Shepherd paintings - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Portrait Prize for Four Paws Animal Rescue

2010-03-16T06:59:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to be supporting Four Paws Animal Rescue's Photo Competition again. The Best in Show prize is a 7" x 5" head portrait of your pet in either watercolour or graphite pencil - see my website Portraits of Pets for more examples of my work.

The competition runs from 18th March until 4th April. Judges: comedienne Sue Perkins, Countryfile presenter Matt Baker and TV presenter Shauna Lowry.

Please see the Four Paws Animal Rescue Forum for more information on how to enter, prizes, etc.

Four Paws Animal Rescue (South Wales) Website

Painting of Hungarian Vizsla

2010-03-15T02:03:00.000-07:00

This year's Crufts Best In Show is a fabulous Hungarian Vizsla - being a Labrador owner I was rooting for the Gundog group to win, with the Scottie in the Terriers for second and my picks did just that!

Here is a painting I did last year of a Hungarian Vizsla. This particular one had a good day at Crufts this year also, with Reserve in Special Junior - Dog ... well done Archie!

See www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for more information about commissioning paintings and my online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Auction Lot "A Ball for Our Hall"

2010-02-19T08:36:00.000-08:00

I have a pet portrait up for auction for the following cause:

Saturday 6th March 2010- A Ball for our Hall

A Black Tie Charity Auction and Gala Dinner

Lands of Loyal Hotel, Perthshire

"We are hosting the Ball for our Hall, a Black Tie Charity Auction and Gala Dinner, on Saturday 6^th March 2010 at the stunning Lands of Loyal Hotel, Alyth in the heart of Perthshire - www.landsofloyal.com

This fabulous evening will begin with a champagne reception followed by dinner. There will be a Grand Auction, silent auction, luxury tombola and various fundraising games We would love you to be able to come and join us on the night, but if you can't but would still like to support our cause then please use this justgiving page to make a donation.

Our community is in a beautiful area of rural Scotland, known as the vale of Strathmore, it is well known for its mineral rich soil and award winning spring water. These farms create a scattered community stretching for miles but the hamlets of Eassie, Nevay, Balkeerie, Charleston and Kirkinch have enjoyed a unique focal point since 1924 when the community was united by the opening of the, then Women’s Rural Institute, hall. The Eassie primary school has used the hall for many years as a gym and it has been the venue for dozens of dances, classes, parties, WRI meetings, fund-raisers and coffee mornings.

In short the hall has allowed the community to grow strong and thrive, but now the dated construction materials have eroded and our wonderful hall has reached the end of it’s life. Our vibrant and resourceful community has done some impressive fundraising over the years and we are now left with only 26% to raise.

Time is of the essence as construction must be concluded and a completion certificate obtained by 31 December 2010 in order to qualify for all of our funding. It is essential that we meet the deadline as much depends on it, including the future viability of our school.

Find out more about us on our website www.eassieandnevay.org "

Weimaraner Charcoal Sketch

2010-02-18T04:12:00.000-08:00

A sketch of a Weimaraner done with charcoal pencils.

For further information on commissioning portraits and to see online galleries of my work, visit: www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Spaniel Paintings

2010-02-16T05:35:00.000-08:00

A selection of spainel paintings of various spaniel breed types - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

West Highland Terrier Paintings

2010-02-16T05:26:00.000-08:00

West Highland Terriers (Westies) are one of my favourites breeds. My parents have always had westies, so I grew up with them.

The first was Jamie who was a year older than me. He passed away aged 15. Then along came Hamish and a year later Rufus. They were such great dogs, and miss them still. Rufus died in 2006 at nearly 15 years, and Hamish a year later at almost 17 years old. My parents now own Alfie, who was born on Christmas Day 2007, he gets along great with my Labrador.

Here's a selection of West Highland Terrier paintings I have done - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Paintings of Rottweilers

2010-02-16T05:22:00.001-08:00

A selection of Rottweiler paintings I have done - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for more information and my online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Portraits of Golden Retrievers

2010-02-16T05:15:00.001-08:00

Some of my Golden Retriever paintings - see www.portraitsofpets.co.uk for further information and online galleries.

Images copyright Karen Hartnell and may not be reproduced in any way

Limited Edition Labrador Print

2010-01-27T01:55:00.000-08:00

I have a Limited Edition print section in my online Store, which currently has one design available to purchase. I'm hoping to get a couple more Gundog-themed prints for sale this year, once the artwork is complete.

Click here to visit the online Store page or to purchase this item

A Labrador's Retrieve

Copyright marks do not appear across the actual print

The first I have is of a chocolate Labrador Retriever titled 'A Labrador's Retrieve'. It is a print-run of 250. Each print is individually signed and numbered.

The size is 16" x 12.5", which includes a 1" white border.

It is printed on high quality 285gsm Hahnermuhle Torchon watercolour paper, retaining the colours and detail of the original painting.

The price is £45, which includes postage and packing costs. It will be sent by Royal Mail's Special Delivery signed for service in a board-backed envelope within 7 days of order being placed.

If you have any questions about this item, please email me on portraitspets@aol.com

Copyright Karen Hartnell

Charity Auction - Ends Midnight 19 Jan!

2010-01-13T03:23:00.001-08:00

I have a charity Pet Portrait Auction on Labrador Forums to raise funds to bring to the UK a brave Labrador called Tangye who is on the front line with our troops in Afghanistan.

Tangye

The auction is for a 10" x 7" headshot portrait of a pet in either watercolour or pencil.

Auction ends midnight on Tuesday 19th January.

You can read Tangye's story on the Just Giving Fundraising page

Bidding for the auction currently stands at £200 on 19th Jan at 3.45pm.

Christmas Commissions

2009-09-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

I'm now fully booked up to Christmas. Taking bookings for 2010.

**************************

Update 23 Nov:
I am more or less booked up for Christmas, but will still consider smaller individual portraits (sizes 11" x 8" or under). Unfortunately, I don't really have time left in the run up to Christmas to fit in large or portraits of multiple pets now.

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It's that time of year again! I'm now taking orders for Christmas commissions.

Portrait Commissions
I try and work on these as they come in to keep on top of it all, unless I have work which needs to be completed prior to Christmas.

The last date I can currently take commissions to be completed and posted in time for Christmas (subject to size/composition) is Monday 14th December - last posting date will be Tuesday 22nd. I would advise to book early to avoid disappointment. If you feel you may have left it too late, please email me as I may be able to fit you in if I've had a cancellation.

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Cartoon Gift Art Commissions
Looking for a special gift? Why not turn the antics of your pet or a friend/family member's pet into a cartoon. They can be Christmas themed or just an everyday theme. Various sizes available.

Last date for Christmas cartoon commissions is currently 7th December.

See Cartoon Gift Art Commissions page for further information.

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You can contact me on portraitspets@aol.com - if you don't hear from me, it could be that I've not received your email, especially if attaching photos.

I will reply to all genuine (spam gets deleted!) enquiries received, so if you don't hear back from me, I've likely not received your email.

www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

Store now open!

2009-09-01T08:08:00.000-07:00

My online art store is now open.

I currently have for sale greetings cards and original paintings.

Please note that postage is for UK only.

Overseas orders - Please email first to enquire as to whether I post to your country and additional postage costs.

The Store

2009-03-27T10:07:00.000-07:00

I will be launching a new section of my site called The Store which will bring together my work from Portraits of Pets and Paintings of Scotland.

There will be Greetings Cards, Prints, Limited Editions and Original Art available to purchase.

I'm hoping to get this up and running around Easter time.

The Store

2009-03-19T09:25:00.000-07:00

I'm currently working on setting up the store for my websites, but other things have been getting in the way so it's taken a backseat for the last year or so.

I have a basic version on my Portraits of Pets site at the moment, but I'm designing a separate section for it on P.of.P which will incorporate both that and my Scottish art website, Paintings of Scotland.

I will have limited edition prints, greetings cards - both hand-painted and printed - and original art work for sale on there.

I will post when things are up and running.

Baby Name Gift Art

2009-01-09T05:43:00.000-08:00

I was recently asked if I could do a baby name painting for a friend with details of birth and weight. I thought it would be a good idea to do one for my nephew when he was finally born.

So I am now offering this service on my website as I have had several people express an interest in them.

The Baby Name Gift Art can be personalised for you, with favourite cartoon characters or cartoons of your pets, etc.

Details can be included such as date, time, place of birth and weight.

Contact me for a quote - contact information on my website www.portraitsofpets.co.uk

I did this Winnie the Pooh name painting for my new nephew.

Christmas Commissions - Update

2008-11-20T11:39:00.000-08:00

** Please note that I am now booked up for Christmas **

I'm almost fully-booked for Christmas, so if you are interested, please contact me asap.

Commissions need to be confirmed by the beginning of December to avoid disappointment, and to ensure that the portrait can be completed in time.

Christmas orders will be posted out no later than 20th December.

If you feel you may have left it too late, please email me as I may be able to fit you in if I've had a cancellation.

You can contact me on karen@portraitsofpets.co.uk or portraitspets@aol.com - I've been having a few problems with not receiving mail on the portraits of pets address, so usually best to copy in to my aol one aswell.

I will reply to all genuine enquiries received, so if you haven't heard back from me, I've likely not received your email.

Christmas Commissions

2008-09-03T05:55:00.000-07:00

Update 23 Oct
** Last date for Christmas orders is currently 24 Nov **

I'm now taking orders for Christmas commissions.

I try and work on these as they come in to keep on top of it all, unless I have work which needs to be completed prior to Christmas.

The last date I can currently take commissions to be completed and posted in time for Christmas (subject to size/composition) is 1st December. I would advise to book early as last year I got fully booked by end of November and had to turn work away (something i don't like having to do). If you feel you may have left it too late, please email me as I may be able to fit you in if I've had a cancellation.

You can contact me on karen@portraitsofpets.co.uk or portraitspets@aol.com - I've been having a few problems with not receiving mail on the portraits of pets address, so usually best to copy in to my aol one too.

I will reply to all (genuine) enquiries received, so if you don't hear back from me, I've likely not received your email.

Labrador Pen Drawings

2008-03-07T09:11:00.000-08:00

I was experimenting last week with pen sketches and drew a couple of friends' labradors. They are both black labs, but it was interesting playing with the tone and texture and trying to build up the character of the dogs just by using black ink.

You can see more on my website: www.labrador-portraits.co.uk

Sadie:

Woody:

First Horse Portrait

2008-02-18T03:06:00.000-08:00

I have finally got around to painting my first horse. I went to the local field the other day and took a lot of photos, which my labrador wasn't happy about as he wanted to walk and got bored while I snapped away! It's a small 7" x 5" portrait.

Happy New Year!

2008-01-09T04:14:00.000-08:00

After the pre-Christmas busy period, I'm now trying to focus on the new year.

Thanks to some lovely people who are letting me use photos of their labradors in the field working, I'm hoping to have some gundog art work painted this year.

I'm thinking of entering a few pieces in the Dunkeld Art Exhibition this summer. It will be my first year there, and ideally want it to be of my labrador work. Will have to see if I can get the work done in time.

I'm also hoping to expand the Corbie Pup Art cartoons to feature various breeds of dogs and have them for sale as original watercolour paintings on the website.

If the gundog paintings pan out as I would like, I'm hoping I can get some limited edition prints together which will also be available through my site, and may be some other outlets.

New Choclate Labrador Pencil Drawing

2007-10-19T09:36:00.001-07:00

I got my pencils out again recently and used my trusty labrador to practise on!

I've since completed another portrait of him and I'm working on a third as I want to put them all in a frame together. They are only 7" x 5", but I'm really pleased with them.

A Labrador's Retrieve

2007-10-19T09:19:00.000-07:00

Chocolate Labrador Gundog Painting

I've wanted to paint a labrador with a pheasant for some time. I had a local exhibition back in July so thought it would be a good time to get a painting done for that. Having received a brilliant photo to work from from a fellow labrador owner, I produced this piece of work.

I was very pleased with the result, although it didn't sell at the exhibition. That means I got to keep it instead - I do grow attached to my paintings, I know I shouldn't!

Welcome to my Arty Blog!

2007-10-19T09:18:00.001-07:00

My dog has his blog, so thought it was time I blogged about my art!

I will show you some of my work on here, as well as any up-coming projects/exhibitions I may have.

www.portraitsofpets.co.uk