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Elena Valerie's Blog: Live Wedding Art, Pet Portraits,
Florals & Painting Classes
Welcome to my blog! As an Australian artist, I'm thrilled to share the stories behind my work: from the treasured pet portraits and their unique lives to the magic of live wedding painting as celebrations unfold. You'll also find insights into how my art classes and masterclasses are progressing, alongside new painting techniques and the journey of my latest commissions.


Popcorn's Triumph: A Portrait of Resilience and Love
This isn't just a portrait of a cat in a bathtub. It's the story of Popcorn, a one-pawed survivor, and the thoughtful birthday gift she inspired. Her owner asked me to recreate a long-lost print his girlfriend always regretted not buying. It was a unique challenge to blend a whimsical style with a real-life story of resilience and love. See how this beautiful idea came to life and view the final painting.

Elena Valerie
23 hours ago2 min read


Capturing a "Distinguished Gentleman": The Story of Monty's Memorial Portrait
Commissioning an oil pet memorial portrait is a beautiful way to honor a lost companion. This guide walks you through the healing process in Australia, from finding an empathetic artist and sharing your pet's story to creating a timeless tribute that keeps their spirit alive in your home and heart.

Elena Valerie
Jul 23 min read


Creating Lasting Memories: Commissioning an Oil Pet Memorial Portrait in Australia 2025
Commissioning an oil pet memorial portrait is a beautiful way to honor a lost companion. This guide walks you through the healing process in Australia, from finding an empathetic artist and sharing your pet's story to creating a timeless tribute that keeps their spirit alive in your home and heart.

Elena Valerie
Jun 275 min read


Capturing Rocko's Soul: A Heartfelt Tribute for a Special Dad
When Georgia reached out, her wish was to honour Rocko, a chocolate Labrador whose sudden passing left a huge void. Rocko was the light of their family, and his dad's best mate. With her father's 60th birthday approaching, Georgia wanted to give him a truly special gift: a keepsake to treasure Rocko's memory. This is the story of capturing Rocko's soulful eyes in an oil portrait, a lasting tribute to a beloved "big softie."

Elena Valerie
Jun 263 min read


A Comprehensive Guide to Commissioning a Custom Pet Portrait to Celebrate Your Beloved One
Transform your love for a pet into a timeless heirloom with a custom pet portrait. This guide walks you through the entire journey: from selecting the perfect reference photos and consulting with your artist to understanding the meticulous artistic process. Learn how to create a lasting memory that truly captures your pet's spirit.

Elena Valerie
Jun 174 min read


From Grief to Grace: Creating Kess's Memorial Portrait
Celebrate your feline friend with a custom cat portrait. Whether a touching memorial or a unique gift for a cat lover, an oil painting captures their spirit. This guide explores commissioning art for beloved cats, including Aussie breeds like Ragdolls and Burmese, helping you create a timeless tribute.

Elena Valerie
Jun 92 min read


Celebrate Your Feline Friends with Custom Cat Portraits - Heartfelt Memorials and Unique Aussie Gifts
Celebrate your feline friend with a custom cat portrait. Whether a touching memorial or a unique gift for a cat lover, an oil painting captures their spirit. This guide explores commissioning art for beloved cats, including Aussie breeds like Ragdolls and Burmese, helping you create a timeless tribute.

Elena Valerie
Jun 54 min read


How to Secretly Commission a Custom Pet Portrait for a Memorable Surprise Gift
A custom pet portrait is a wonderful surprise gift, but commissioning one secretly needs careful planning! This guide provides essential tips: from discreetly gathering the best reference photos and communicating with your artist, to ensuring the surprise stays intact until the perfect moment. Learn how to successfully order a beautiful, meaningful portrait.

Elena Valerie
May 304 min read


Unlocking the Heart of Art: Digital vs. Hand-Painted Pet Portraits
Navigating pet portrait options? Learn the crucial differences between digital and hand-painted art to spot true quality and ensure your investment is authentic.

Elena Valerie
May 223 min read


Get a Custom Portrait of Your Pet: The Surprisingly SIMPLE Commissioning Process!
Think commissioning a custom pet portrait is complicated? Our guide breaks down the surprisingly simple process, step-by-step! From choosing the best photos and discussing your vision with the artist (like creating a timeless oil painting) to progress updates and final delivery, learn how easy it is to get a stunning, heartfelt portrait of your furry friend.

Elena Valerie
May 164 min read


Is This the BEST Pet Portrait Artist to Hire Online?
Finding the "best" pet portrait artist online can feel overwhelming. This guide explores what truly makes an artist stand out: from assessing unique artistic styles and the quality of their work (like fine art oil paintings) to understanding their commission process and reading genuine client reviews. Learn how to make an informed choice.

Elena Valerie
May 133 min read


Secret Way to Commission the PERFECT Dog Portrait from a Photo
Want the perfect oil painting of your dog? Discover the 'secret' to commissioning a stunning portrait from a photo artist. This guide covers the essential process, highlighting why selecting the best reference photos is crucial for creating a cherished, high-quality fine art heirloom capturing your companion's unique spirit.

Elena Valerie
May 84 min read


Don't Commission a Pet Portrait Until You Read This Comparison Guide!
Overwhelmed by choosing a pet portrait artist? This guide simplifies comparing styles, mediums, and artists, helping you confidently commission a piece you'll treasure.

Elena Valerie
May 65 min read


The Shocking Truth About Custom Pet Portrait Costs From an Artist!
If you’re a proud pet owner like I am, you know how special our furry friends are. Capturing their unique personalities through custom...

Elena Valerie
May 25 min read


ANIMAL PAINTING MASTERCLASS - A Journey Through the Art of Portraiture
Animal portrait masterclass on the Gold Coast. A Hare portrait in oil.

Elena Valerie
Feb 3, 20232 min read


ANIMAL AND PET PORTRAIT COMMISSIONS
Would you like a unique and adorable pet portrait that perfectly complements your interior and captures the essence of your beloved pet?...

Elena Valerie
Dec 16, 20222 min read


ANIMAL & PET PORTRAITS
This year I have discovered a new subject to add in my art journey, animal portraits. I am working in oil to create a realistic style and...

Elena Valerie
Aug 2, 20211 min read
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