top of page

Painting an Animal's Personality : Pet Portraits

Caitlin Gawa

Wondering how to create a unique pet portrait that will resemble the animal energetically, on a soul level? I love to create paintings that capture your pet’s essence, spirit, and personality, instead of only resembling your pet exactly as you see him or her.


These are the following key elements that I consider when painting:

  • The animal's expression and eyes

    Capture their unique gaze—curious, loving, mischievous, or wise.

    Use highlights in the eyes to bring them to life.

    Exaggerated expressions to emphasize emotions.

  • Body Language & Posture

    Paint them in their natural stance—confident, relaxed, playful, or alert.

    Show their quirks, like a tilted head, flopped ears, or a wagging tail.

  • Color & Texture

    Use vibrant or soft tones that match their energy—bold colors for energetic pets, muted ones for gentle souls.

    Add texture to emphasize personality (e.g., messy fur for a wild spirit).

  • Expressive brushstrokes to reflect their nature—smooth for calm pets, dynamic for playful ones.

  • Background & Environment

    Place animal in their favorite spot—by the window, on a special blanket, or outside in a forest

    Use symbols or objects that reflect their personality (e.g., a ball for playful pets, a moonlit scene for mysterious ones).

  • Accessories & Details

    Include their favorite toy, collar, or a special tag.

    Add mystical elements (an aura)

    Subtle storytelling elements

  • Movement & Energy

    Show motion if they are active—running, jumping, or mid-play.

    Use dynamic lines or swirling colors for high-energy pets.

    Soft, flowing strokes can reflect a peaceful, gentle nature.


For more about capturing an animal's personality in a painting, watch the video below.


Interested in learning more about ordering a custom portrait of your pet from me,

click the button!


pet painting

Commentaires


Giving back to charitable causes continues to be an important part of Caitlin’s work. A percentage of her sales are donated on a yearly basis to non-profit organizations that advocate for the rights of animals and animal welfare. In the past she has donated to WWF (worldwildlife.org), The Urban Safari Rescue Society (urbansafari.ca) and this year plans to donate to the Animal Welfare Foundation of Canada (awfc.ca)

Subscribe for Updates

Thanks for submitting!

For additional magick, all paintings are created
with water charged by the moon and canvas charged by crystals.

 BC Canada

© 2022 by Caitlin Gawa.

bottom of page