They’re More Than Pets — They’re Family And That’s Exactly Why I Paint Them
Custom pet portrait by Amy Boardman – watercolor and acrylic pet art.
They’re Family — That’s Why I Paint Them
Stories Behind the Pet Portraits
As an artist, I don’t just paint animals. I paint family members — the loyal eyes, quirky poses, and tender moments that make each one unforgettable.
Each custom pet portrait I create is based on real photos, but it’s never just a copy. It’s a reflection of who they are — their personality, their soul. I paint pets because they are full of life, loyalty, and lots and lots of love.
Each custom pet portrait I create is based on real photos. But it’s never just about copying an image — it’s about capturing who they truly are. Their personality. Their soul. I paint pets because they’re full of life, loyalty, and so much love.
While I typically paint the pose from the reference photo you share with me, I also offer flexibility to make it truly your own. I can enhance the portrait with personal touches — whether that’s a soft watercolor splash, a vibrant multicolor background, a beach scene, or even their favorite toy. I can also change details like the color of their bandana, collar, or sweater to match your vision.
The sky’s the limit — and together, we’ll create something that feels just right.
Today, I’d love to share a few personal stories behind portraits I’ve painted — along with the real photos, the final paintings, and even a peek at how they look framed in a real home. Because that’s when a portrait truly becomes a treasure.
Meet Maui — The Sun Conure Who Loves Peanut Butter
Maui is bursting with personality — and if you know a sun conure, you know they come with opinions! Adopt a sun conure and you instantly become their flock for life. Be prepared for a loud squawk when they want attention… but also the sweetest chirps and cuddles when they’re content.
Maui loves dancing, mimicking sounds, and even napping inside your shirt. He’s been known to sing on cue, flip, and nibble through a few T-shirts! His favorite treats? Coconut, olive oil, nuts, and of course… peanut butter.
The pose that inspired this portrait was the moment I caught him diving into a peanut butter jar — it was too cute not to paint! Though the original photo showed him perched quietly, I chose to capture him in that joyful, mischievous moment in acrylic. His portrait now hangs proudly as a bright reminder of his hilarious and loving personality.
Meet Buddy — A Loyal Bloodhound Remembered
Buddy meant the world to Judy. She ordered his portrait through the Pets with Purpose Valentine Special — a fundraiser I partnered on with A New Lease on Life, a no-kill shelter supporting animals in need of loving homes.
The first photo Judy sent didn’t fully capture Buddy’s personality, so I painted a second version in a pose that felt more true to his memory.
That’s the beauty of custom portraits — they’re personal, timeless, and meant to reflect what words often can’t. Sometimes it takes a second look to tell the story right.
Meet Ki Lani — My Studio Mascot in Disguise
Meet Ki Lani, my calico kitten and masked studio sidekick. She’s always nearby while I paint — observing with drama, curiosity, and her signature flair. I often joke she’s ready for a masquerade ball with that perfect little face mask.
She was adopted from Friends of Rescue, a no-kill shelter. Initially chosen by another family, she was returned because of her odd growling (yes, growling!). It was clear she was scared and unsure from being bounced between homes. But with patience, time, and love, she slowly opened up and found her place in our home — and in my heart.
She’s now my daily companion, greeting the birds at the window with chirps and trills, flipping and flopping like a goofball, and joining me for two daily “fishing” sessions with her toys. I couldn’t imagine my life without her.
Her portrait hangs in my studio as a reminder that sometimes the most loyal companions find us when we least expect it. You’d think we were headed to a masquerade or an action scene in a movie — her look is that bold!
Meet Boba — The First Pet I Fell in Love With
Boba came into our lives a bit unexpectedly. My son had planned to meet one of her siblings, but the puppy had ringworm — so instead, they introduced us to Boba. And I’m so glad they did.
She was the first pet I ever truly fell in love with. Around here, she’s affectionately known as Boba Lick-Us and Boba Tank — full of love, energy, and plenty of kisses. She’s super friendly, loves people, and is always ready to play. Hide and seek, fetch, and her daily walks are some of her favorite things.
She’s also incredibly smart — she can sit, spin, speak, and more. And her favorite treat? A good old-fashioned “cook-cook” (cookie). One of my favorite things about her is how she carries her gingerbread cookie around, just barely hanging from her mouth — it made the perfect pose for her portrait.
Painting Boba felt like painting a beloved family member—because that is exactly what she is. She’ll always be the first pet that captured my heart.
Thinking About a Portrait for Your Pet?
Whether you’re celebrating your current companion or honoring the memory of a beloved friend, a custom pet portrait is a meaningful way to cherish the love they’ve brought into your life.
I offer hand-painted watercolor portraits in 5x7, 8x10, or 11x14 — with or without a mat — and I’m happy to discuss larger sizes as well. Each piece is created with prayer, intention, and deep love.
🎨 Ready to begin?
Send me 2 or more clear, high-quality photos, and together we’ll bring your pet’s story to life. Your portrait and story may even be featured in my blog, newsletter, or in the Inspire My Painting with Amy Boardman Facebook group.
📩 Questions? Reach out here: amyboardmanart.com/contact
💛 Interested in an acrylic portrait? Let’s chat!
