Custom Watercolour Portraits
Bespoke human and animal portraits painted to order
Portraits of Women, Men and Animals - Made Just for You
Do you share a unique, emotional connection with another being — human or animal — and want to immortalise it in a way that feels truly meaningful?
I offer to transform one or more of your photographs into a personalised watercolour portrait, hand-painted with care and sensitivity.
I am a watercolour artist and illustrator specialising in both human and animal portraiture.
Tell me about your dream, and I will guide you through the process to create a made-to-measure watercolour that fits beautifully into your interior and that you will love to admire.
I specialise in:
Portraits of children or adults
Animal portraits
Combined human-animal portraits
Traditional watercolour paintings
Digital files available upon request
Standard and bespoke formats
Prices starting from €200
Production times from 15 days (depending on waiting list)
Personalised quote
What Subjects Do I Paint in Watercolour?
I am a watercolour artist specialising in human and animal subjects.
Emotion-Filled Human Portraits
I paint portraits of:
children, grandchildren, and siblings
adults and couples
even beloved figures or personalities significant to you
My aim is not only to represent appearance, but, with your guidance, to capture personality, gaze and presence.
Soulful Animal Portraits
I create portraits of your companions — furry, feathered or scaled — highlighting the unique bond you share with your:
dog, cat
small pets (rabbit, guinea pig, hamster, rat)
horse, and more
With your direction, I can paint not just how they look, but how they feel.
Portraits That Celebrate the Human–Animal Bond
Many owners wish to honour the special connection with their pet.
Consider a portrait of your duo (or trio — or more) to celebrate a living companion or to remember one who has passed.
Some commissions also explore totem or astrological portraits.
I especially enjoy making visible the connection you feel with your animal totem or astrological animal.
So please ask if you would like a double portrait of you and your companion — a meaningful piece for your home.
Special Occasions to Commission a Portrait
Commissioning a hand-painted portrait of someone you care about is a beautiful way to celebrate connection and meaning.
Valentine’s Day: Offer something other than flowers and chocolate
Holiday Season: Be the most original gift-giver
Milestone Birthdays: 20, 30, 40, 50, 60+, and more — mark the years in a timeless way
Wedding Anniversaries: Relive the emotional bond of your wedding day
First Job: A stand-out portrait for LinkedIn or a professional portfolio
Retirement: Commemorate the moment with a personalised, meaningful portrait
Birth: Celebrate a new arrival with a portrait featuring their astrological or Chinese zodiac sign
Baptism: Mark this cherished spiritual moment with an illustrated keepsake
Farewell: A poignant tribute to a loved one who has passed
To begin your portrait commission, please use the contact form or email me directly.
Which Format for Your Personalised Portrait?
I recommend adapting the size of your personalised portrait to the place you wish to give it within your home.
Another important point to consider is framing. A frame protects your artwork and plays a key role in enhancing it. Fully bespoke framing can represent a significant budget, which is why I often suggest choosing a size that corresponds as closely as possible to standard frames.
Visualise the portrait in your own space.
Take time to imagine where you would like to display the painting.
Choose a location with as little direct light as possible, both during the day and at night. If necessary, plan part of your budget for museum-grade (UV-protective) glass.
Observe the furniture and decorative elements already present in that space, so that each piece complements the others rather than competing with them. You can, for example, use painter’s tape or a laser level to visualise the ideal dimensions of the artwork.
Look at this placement as you live in the room: when you enter, when you are seated at your desk, from your favourite chair or the sofa.
If the portrait is displayed in a room where you welcome guests, consider the view not only from your own perspective but also from that of your visitors or clients.
On the right: 50 × 40 cm frame with mount, window size 38.5 × 28.5 cm: 2 subjects
Bottom left: A4 frame with mount (21 × 29.7 cm), window size 14 × 19 cm (5.35 cm horizontal border and 3.5 cm vertical border)
Right: A3 frame with mount (29.7 × 42 cm), window size 19.5 × 29.5 cm (6.25 cm horizontal border and 5.1 cm vertical border)
On the right: two 24 × 30 cm frames with mounts, window size 13.8 × 19 cm (5.5 cm horizontal border and 5.1 cm vertical border)
A portrait in a standard format
Many fine art, home décor and even DIY shops offer standard-sized frames, making framing more affordable.
Between the frame and the artwork, it is customary to use a mount (also known as a mat) – white or coloured – usually between 5.5 and 10.75 cm wide, to enhance the artwork within its opening, although this is not mandatory. Watercolour paper may extend all the way to the edge of the frame, with or without a clean, unpainted border.
Here are the formats I work with most often:
Square format
30 × 30 cm with a 19 × 19 cm window (border of 5.5 cm)
Portrait format
A4: 21 × 29.7 cm with a 14 × 19 cm window (horizontal border of 5.35 cm and vertical border of 3.5 cm)
A3: 29.7 × 42 cm with a 19.5 × 29.5 cm window (horizontal border of 6.25 cm and vertical border of 5.1 cm)
24 × 30 cm with a 13.8 × 19 cm window (horizontal border of 5.5 cm and vertical border of 5.1 cm)
30 × 40 cm with a 19.5 × 29.5 cm window (border of 5.25 cm)
40 × 50 cm with a 28.5 × 38.5 cm window (border of 5.75 cm)
Note: it is possible to include 2, 3 or even 4 subjects within a 40 × 50 cm format, depending on the composition and the subjects themselves.
Landscape format, particularly suitable for multiple subjects
50 × 40 cm with a 38.5 × 28.5 cm window: 2 subjects (border of 5.75 cm)
50 × 60 cm with a 38.5 × 48.5 cm window: 3 subjects (border of 5.75 cm)
A portrait in a bespoke format
If you wish for a specific size or one adapted to an existing frame, I can paint the watercolour in a fully customised format.
You may choose:
– a bespoke mount, which I can usually create for you,
– or no mount at all, keeping the natural edges of the paper visible.
How Much Does a Bespoke Portrait Cost?
I also take the time to speak with you, to understand your expectations and bring them to life as faithfully as possible.
Each portrait is entirely hand-painted and fully tailored to your project. It has taken me many years of experience to acquire the technique required to create such work.
For this reason, my prices start from €200.
Purchasing a portrait to display at home
When you commission a portrait to hang in your home, you are acquiring the original physical artwork, intended for display in a private setting.
In this context, here are some indicative prices:
One simple monochrome portrait, 20 × 30 cm: €200
One simple colour portrait, 20 × 30 cm: €250
The price of a commissioned portrait depends primarily on its size and level of complexity.
The following elements may increase the price:
the size of the artwork
the number of subjects within a single painting
colour work compared to monochrome
the level of detail in the background
Less frequently, the following may also apply:
the quality of the reference photographs, when additional composition or drawing work is required
a particularly short deadline
significant revisions or requests outside the agreed scope
If you wish to:
Display the portrait in a public-facing space (such as a company or professional practice), specific tax arrangements may apply and be financially advantageous (art patronage schemes or, more commonly, art leasing). Please mention this at the time of your enquiry.
Reproduce the portrait on any medium, please refer to the dedicated section.
Using your portrait on printed or digital media
You love your portrait and would like to share it:
on printed materials: birth announcements, greeting cards, invitation cards…
on digital media: a wedding website, for example…
I work with professional digital tools and am experienced in delivering this type of service.
I collaborate with a trusted printer in Northern France who works with certified, responsibly sourced paper, and I can act as an intermediary for you.
Alternatively, you are of course free to work with your own service provider.
Please get in touch for a bespoke quote.
Why entrust me with your personalised portrait?
I support you as a portrait artist and watercolour painter in creating artworks that honour your loved ones… and yourself.
An artist specialising in human and animal portraits
My work naturally revolves around the living world and the bond between humans and animals.
By exploring my portfolio, you can discover my realistic line work, my preferred colour palettes, and sense whether this artistic approach resonates with how you would like your loved ones to be portrayed.
The beauty of traditional watercolour
I work entirely by hand, on paper made in France, using animal-hair-free brushes and extra-fine watercolours.
This traditional approach brings an added depth and soul to each portrait.
A professional experienced in commissioned work
As an illustrator working with private clients, publishers and brands, I have the experience needed to listen carefully to your brief, suggest thoughtful ideas and create an artwork that truly reflects your expectations.
To ensure your portrait feels unique and entirely yours, I can:
combine several reference photos into a single composition
adjust or reinterpret colours
choose to soften certain areas or create a full-bleed background (with no clearly defined edges)
remove elements you do not wish to keep
Reliability and clear guidance throughout the process
Clear timelines, transparent follow-up and simple, fluid communication: I guide you through every step of the project.
My clients particularly appreciate the sketch stage, which allows them to visualise the final result and request adjustments so that the composition aligns perfectly with their wishes.
Client Testimonials
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions about Commissioning a Personalised Portrait
Do you have questions about my work, the way I collaborate, or the possible uses of my watercolour portraits?
This FAQ has been designed to answer the most common questions my clients may have.
If you can’t find your question here, I warmly invite you to get in touch.
I will be happy to reply as soon as possible.
How do I commission a personalised portrait?
Complete my form to guide you through your choices.
Arrange a meeting with me to discuss the details in your form.
I will prepare a personalised quote based on our conversation, including optional elements you may choose to suit your budget and your project.
Can I give a portrait as a gift voucher?
Yes, absolutely.
I offer an illustrated gift card option, printed from one of my watercolours.
What is the production time for a watercolour portrait?
Artistic work begins once the following three conditions are met:
the quote is signed,
the deposit has been paid,
the photos have been received and approved by the artist.
The average time to complete the artistic work is around 15 days.
These times may be extended depending on the waiting list (projects already signed, seasonal demand, holidays, etc.).
How does the commissioned portrait process work?
You fill in the personalised portrait request form.
You schedule a meeting with me to discuss your commission.
You sign the quote as is or after adjustment if needed.
You pay a 50% deposit or the full amount.
You send your photos: I may accept them or ask for others/additional ones.
I create a sketch of your portrait.
You have 48 working hours to provide any correction requests.
If necessary, I can send a second or even a third sketch.
Once the sketch is approved, I begin the colouring process.
Once the watercolour is complete, you pay the remaining balance, if applicable.
We arrange either a personal handover or delivery.
How do I choose the right photo?
To ensure the best result:
Choose a sharp, high-resolution photo. Avoid compressed images (for example those transferred via WhatsApp), which are reduced for phone screens and not suitable for a large-format portrait.
Prefer photos taken in natural light.
Make sure the eyes and gaze are clearly visible.
Select a photo where the expression genuinely captures what you wish to convey.
You may send multiple photos so I can better understand the subject I will paint. I’m also interested in knowing which one you prefer, along with any details you can provide to help interpret the image (name, gender, character description, meaningful anecdote etc.).
Composition and cropping can be adjusted by me.
What choices can I make for my portrait?
In my personalised portrait request form, I ask questions to assist you in selecting:
Tone of your portrait:
Monochrome portrait: a single colour for a traditional feel (e.g. sanguine like in the 18th century), a vintage sepia, Harcourt style black, or to match your décor.
Colour portrait: for freshness, light and intimacy.
Background setting:
A white background (paper colour) for a minimalist style.
A coloured wash to enhance an element of the portrait or harmonise with your décor.
A soft, blurred background to bring depth while keeping focus on your loved one.
A defined environment to tell a story with your subject at its heart.
How do you paint in watercolour?
I paint on 300 g/m² 100% cotton watercolour paper made in France.
You may choose a fine grain for a traditional handcrafted feel or a smooth satin surface.
I use extra-fine tube watercolour paints, mainly Daniel Smith, which are highly pigmented, along with a palette of pans. I also select specific colours from other fine arts manufacturers where appropriate.
My brushes are synthetic, as I prefer not to use animal-hair brushes.
I tape the paper to my desk with gummed kraft tape, then lightly draw in graphite pencil.
For colouring, I favour layers of wet-on-dry washes.
Can I request corrections after receiving the portrait?
The artist is the sole judge of when an artwork is complete.
Watercolour allows very limited corrections. If you make a correction request that the artist considers possible — and you agree to the associated extra cost — then a correction may exceptionally be made.
Usually, the sketch validation stage and associated discussions give you confidence before the colouring process begins.
Why commission a watercolour portrait rather than a photographic portrait?
A watercolour portrait offers something that photography cannot always capture. Here’s what makes a watercolour portrait special:
A unique artwork: unlike a photo, a watercolour is an original piece, entirely hand-painted. Offering a painting means offering time, heart and rare attention.
You are involved in the creation: at the sketch stage you can request modifications after reflection, sharing with loved ones, and placing it in context. A photo shoot, by comparison, lasts only a few hours with less room for interaction.
The opportunity to elevate or interpret: I can harmonise colours, soften an expression, or emphasise a bond – always without misrepresenting your loved one or faithful companion.
A watercolour portrait doesn’t replace photography – it transforms it into a precious, artistic, and deeply personal keepsake.
Is it possible to combine multiple people/animals from different photos?
Yes.
Multiple subjects can be painted together to express a connection (animal totem, siblings, couple, pet and owner etc.).
The size of the portrait may need adjusting to give proper space to two, three or more people or animals.
Can I commission a portrait of a deceased animal?
Yes.
I would be honoured to pay tribute to your loyal companion.
You just need to provide sufficiently clear photos so I can represent them faithfully.
Do you offer a digital version in addition to the physical portrait?
Yes.
All my watercolours are scanned at high resolution.
You may purchase the digital file, and the price varies depending on its intended use (publishing, stationery, prints, etc.).
Can I use the portrait for invitations or other materials?
Yes, you can:
Acquire the physical artwork for private use.
Acquire reproduction rights for invites, posters, cards, etc.
I will provide the appropriate rights transfer in your quote.
Can watercolour be painted on canvas?
Watercolour is painted on paper, but it is possible to stretch that paper over a frame (a stretcher bar) to achieve a result that resembles painting on canvas.
The watercolour then needs to be protected – typically with a wax or matte, satin or glossy varnish – which can even create an effect reminiscent of oil paint.
Can portraits be framed?
Yes.
I can advise you on suitable frames and mounts from my trusted suppliers so you find an option that is protective, aesthetically pleasing, and budget-friendly.
You can choose to handle framing yourself, or ask for my support as part of your commission.
For postal delivery, I use the same packaging standard as frame suppliers, with reinforced corners and protective materials.
Note that, even with careful packing, the fragility of glass means there is always some risk of damage in transit — a risk that increases with the size of the portrait.
How does delivery and packaging work?
Since each artwork is unique, I prefer hand delivery at my studio in Camphin-en-Pévèle to avoid any damage, loss or theft.
If this is workable for you and me, this handover can exceptionally take place at an exhibition or during a professional trip.
If you prefer postal delivery:
I make every effort to pack and protect the artwork so it arrives intact: sealed plastic sleeve, rigid cardboard reinforced at the corners or tube, with cushioning materials.
Packing, shipping and insurance costs are your responsibility.