A 60th birthday is a profound milestone, and there are few gifts more heartfelt than one that honours a true member of the family. When Alex reached out to my studio to commission a surprise for his mum, he introduced me to Chilly—a sweet, fourteen-year-old Maltese Toy Poodle who has been the absolute heart of their family for over a decade.

Alex’s vision was to celebrate Chilly’s sweet nature and gentle wisdom. At fourteen years old, a dog’s eyes hold so much love and history, and we wanted to ensure this portrait captured not just his likeness, but the soulful presence he brings to their home.

The Classic Charm
For a smaller breed like Chilly, and for a gift of this nature, we selected the Classic Package (40x30cm). This size acts beautifully as an intimate "jewel" on the wall, offering just the right amount of generous space to capture the rich, intricate texture of his soft white coat without overwhelming the room.
During the painting process, the focus was entirely on his expressive face. After working closely with Alex to select the perfect reference photo illuminated by soft, natural light, I carefully layered archival oils to bring out the delicate nuances in Chilly's ethereal fur and the quiet, devoted spark in his eyes.

The Gallery Finish
Choosing the right frame is always a beautiful part of the journey. We initially considered a Natural Wood finish to complement his coat, but after considering the aesthetics of his mum's home, we ultimately locked in a Custom Matte Black floating frame.
This choice was striking. The strong, grounding border of the black frame provided a classic, sophisticated "gallery-style" finish that beautifully contrasted with Chilly's bright, white fur, giving the piece a very elegant and modern edge. Once the varnished was fully cured and the frame assembled, this precious heirloom was securely shipped down to Essendon, Victoria, perfectly timed for the big 60th birthday reveal on April 27th.

Project Details
Subject: Chilly (Maltese Toy Poodle) Occasion: 60th Birthday Surprise Size: 40x30cm (Classic Package) Medium: Premium Archival Oil on Canvas Frame: Custom Matte Black Floating Frame Location: Private Collection, Essendon, VIC

Turn Your Pet’s Story into a Masterpiece
 
From single portraits to curated family collections, I would be honoured to capture the unique spirit of your beloved companion.
Whether you are looking to create a heartfelt surprise for a loved one or a timeless heirloom for your own home, I am here to guide you through the process. Every commission includes my personal consultation, custom framing, and a lifetime warranty on the artwork. 
 
Are you ready to celebrate your best friend in oil? Contact me today!