his magnificent Saint Bernard was a joy to paint. This particular project was extra special—a surprise birthday gift from a loving daughter to her father! ❤️ Seriously, check out the size of this one! It's my biggest pet portrait commission to date, a truly massive piece for this handsome boy.

Elisabeth's message popped into my inbox—a custom oil portrait of her dog, Zeus, for her dad's birthday on April 25th. I was excited to take on the challenge, especially since she requested an A0 size (120cm x 90cm), which is perfect for a grand dog like Zeus.The initial photo of Zeus, sitting proudly on a golf course fairway with the warm glow of the setting sun, immediately sparked my imagination. However, Elisabeth later sent another photo of Zeus in the car and was a bit concerned about his head being cut off in the original. While I saw artistic potential in the car photo, we ultimately decided to combine the best of both: the majestic full-body pose of Zeus on the golf course, with the captivating expression from the car photo. This allowed us to capture Zeus in his favorite setting while keeping that lively spark in his eyes.

Working with Elisabeth was a real collaboration. We discussed every detail, from the white floating frame (expertly made by @pacificframing) to the idea of adding her dad's reflection in the background—a charming touch that speaks to their deep connection. Despite the tight deadline, Elisabeth's quick responses and clear communication made the process incredibly smooth. From getting the deposit to approving the sketch and the final painting, her enthusiasm was infectious.

Creating such a large and detailed piece in a short timeframe was thrilling. The recent rain here on the Gold Coast meant the oil paints took a bit longer to dry, which added to the anticipation, but I was determined to ensure Zeus arrived safely and on time for his dad's birthday.It was incredibly rewarding to hear Elisabeth's happy feedback, confirming that she and her family "love it so much!"

This portrait of Zeus is more than just a painting; it's a testament to the love and bond within their family, a legacy piece that will bring joy for generations. Every brushstroke tells a part of their story, creating an heirloom that embodies the true essence of their beloved companion.This stunning oil on canvas, measuring whopping 120x90cm and beautifully framed in a white floating frame, is now part of a private collection in NSW.

If you love this portrait of Zeus and would like to commission a painting of your own beloved pet, please get in touch! I'd be delighted to discuss creating a special piece just for you.