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In this article, I am pleased to share my latest artworks. Three new acrylic paintings, which include a touching moment of a father embracing his son on his wedding day, and a young girl named Lois riding her grey horse Vinnie. Additionally, I unveil my latest coloured pencil portraits, featuring a Golden Retriever surrounded by vibrant pink Hydrangeas, and two Boxer dogs that complement last Christmas's portraits. Each piece is crafted with meticulous attention to detail to capture the essence and personality of the subjects and each one was commissioned for friends and family members for various special occasions, including Christmas. Discover the inspiration behind each unique creation and watch how these portraits were brought to life through the time-lapse videos. For those interested in commissioning a personal portrait, more information can be found on my Commissions page. Jimmy & Craig - Portrait in AcrylicsGifted by Daniel to a friend after the recent loss of his father Daniel made a formal request for an acrylic painting measuring 12" by 16", depicting a heartfelt moment of a friend embracing his father during his wedding ceremony. This artwork was commissioned as a thoughtful gift to commemorate his friend's birthday in December. Daniel's initial request is detailed below: " I am considering getting a portrait commissioned (30x40 acrylic) on behalf of my friend whose father has recently passed. The picture I have is taken indoors, although well lit, when his father surprised us all by making it to his wedding day despite being critically ill. It was a pivotal moment in his life and I would love it captured by yourself and I think it would help him through the grieving process. "  This image illustrates the chosen frame and painting, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Portraiture is among my favourite subjects to create. As an artist, I find inspiration in challenges, and I consider portraits to be particularly demanding. While the majority of my work focuses on pets, I greatly appreciate the opportunity to diversify my portfolio when clients inquire about portrait commissions. Although I generally refrain from incorporating text into my paintings, I recognised the significance of this phrase to the recipient. As a result, I was able to integrate it in a way that maintains both cohesiveness and visual appeal.  'Jimmy & Craig' Below are two time-lapse videos that highlight two key stages of the painting process. The first video illustrates the detailing of the jackets, while the second video focuses on the completion of the face and head. Although the videos are brief, they each represent around 2 hours of work.
" Hi Karen, I have reviewed the painting and it's exactly how you promised it would be. I'm sure he'll love it." Daniel Merseyside, UK If you’d like to dive deeper into the process, feel free to visit the dedicated page for Jimmy & Craig’s portrait, where I share my personal insights and an in-depth overview. Acrylic Painting of a Young Girl and her HorseGifted by Joan to her great-grand-daughter Lois This acrylic portrait was commissioned by my lovely neighbour, Joan, as a thoughtful gift for her great-granddaughter, Lois, who is 13 years old.  This image illustrates the chosen frame and painting, presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. This portrait was created from a physical photograph, which presents a greater challenge compared to digital images due to limited editing capabilities. While it is possible to adjust brightness and contrast in the scanned photo, extracting additional detail as one would with a digital file is not feasible, which added complexity to the process. Additionally, I designed a new background, as the original photo lacked visual appeal.  In this case, the original image presented a concrete road, a few sparse trees, and a dreary overcast sky, which inspired me to explore ways to improve the scene. By transforming the background with lush greenery and a brighter sky, I turned a rather mundane setting into a more visually appealing landscape. A Coloured Pencil Memorial Drawing of Elsa, the Golden RetrieverIn memory of Elsa - October 2024 This was gifted from Melvin and Kay to two dear friends in honour of their cherished Golden Retriever (and ex guide dog), Elsa, who recently passed away. Due to the nature of this presentation as a surprise gift for the two recipients, the commissioner was only able to supply a limited selection of photos of Elsa. Although the available details were minimal, I was able to create a new composition based on one of the photos, featuring Elsa in a recognisable area of the garden, positioned beneath the Hydrangea bush with a tennis ball in front of her. " We are looking to place a commission for a portrait of a dog and we are very impressed with your body of work. The subject doesn’t belong to us but is very dear to us. The dog is named Elsa and she is a retired guide dog and she lives with two very special friends of ours. Very sadly, Elsa is coming to the end of her life and we are hoping a portrait will give our friends a lasting memory of Elsa."  This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Elsa frequently found comfort beneath the hydrangea bush, highlighting the importance of creating a composition that would serve as a lasting tribute to her in her favourite spot in the garden. The portrait was developed using two distinct images, as the client was unable to provide a suitable photo of her in a lying position. I combined a photograph of Elsa's head with an image of the body from a different Golden Retriever to achieve a realistic representation of the desired pose. Additionally, I used other photographs of Elsa to ensure that the colouration accurately reflected her likeness, while also omitting any white hairs typical of her youthful age of eight years, in accordance with the client's request.  As you might expect, the most time-consuming aspect of the portrait was meticulously crafting the leaves and petals of the flowers. I found myself consistently underestimating the amount of time this intricate detail required, often losing track of how many hours I dedicated to perfecting the background detail. To give you a sense of the labour involved, I’ve included a couple of time-lapse videos. These clips capture the painstaking process and reveal the hours of effort that went into each stage of the artwork, with each video spanning approximately two and a half to three hours of my work. As previously mentioned, I have a deep passion for tackling challenges, and I found immense satisfaction in the process.
" We cannot thank you enough for the amazing portrait you have produced and we are in awe of your artistic skill. It is a beautiful composition and it truly encapsulates Elsa in a very typical pose we have all witnessed many times." Melvin & Kay West Midlands, UK Maggot the Boxer dog in Coloured PencilsLast year, Jet commissioned coloured pencil portraits of her Boxer dogs. However, two additional Boxer dogs belonging to Jet and her friend Mark had not reached maturity at that time. To ensure their portraits could be displayed alongside the previously commissioned pieces, Jet decided it would be prudent to wait an extra year. Maggot is Jet's third Boxer dog, joining her other two, Carrot and Fungus. The framed examples are presented as a simulation for display purposes, but have yet to be framed. The portraits of all three dogs together are also showcased further down the page.  This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Although the reference photograph was of exceptional detail, I used an additional reference image to make adjustments to the left ear, which was protruding and could potentially disrupt the balance of the overall presentation. It is uncommon for me to produce a portrait based solely on a single photograph; typically, I incorporate a combination of elements from multiple images to achieve the desired outcome.  The image above was taken during the final stages of completing Maggot's portrait. This process involved the meticulous addition of whiskers and final adjustments to ensure the artwork’s completion. At this stage, I proceed to sign the portrait, followed by the application of two to three layers of fixative spray to provide enhanced protection for the finished piece.  This image illustrates the final drawings, with all framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. The three portraits are showcased here through a simulation application that allows you to visualise how they may appear when framed and displayed together. To ensure consistency in size among the portraits, particularly since two of them were completed a year ago, I always maintain a printed reference image that allows me to accurately evaluate and align the dimensions of any subsequent portraits. Rooster the Boxer dog in Coloured PencilsThis Christmas, my friend Jet commissioned a second portrait as a gift for her friend Mark. This piece features Mark's now-matured male Boxer dog, Rooster, and is designed to complement the previously commissioned portrait of his brindle Boxer, Watson, which was created last year. The framed examples presented are simulations for display purposes, as the actual portraits have yet to be framed. Additionally, further down the page, both portraits of the dogs are showcased together.  This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. Throughout various stages of my creative process, I capture time-lapse recordings that give viewers a deeper understanding of the techniques involved in my portrait creation. The two videos featured here, though they are only a few seconds long, encapsulate a considerable amount of time and effort; each represents approximately 2 to 3 hours of meticulous work. These recordings serve not only to showcase the final product but also to highlight the intricate steps taken and the evolution of the artwork from initial concept to completion.
I began my first commission in July, and as I received more requests, I effectively adapted my schedule, working on each project every other day. This approach allowed me to prioritise those with upcoming deadlines and ensure timely completion. I coordinated the ordering of acrylic paintings and their frames at the same time as starting each portrait, which proved to be a smart strategy for ensuring everything was ready for the final varnishing.  By mid-November, I was fully booked, leaving no room for additional commissions until Jet reached out to me with a photo of Rooster at the end of November. Drawing from my experience in creating Boxer dog illustrations, I was able to efficiently integrate this new project into my workflow and remarkably finished it in just eight days! The constrained timeframe presented an intriguing challenge, leading to the surprising realisation that I was able to complete a large 10" x 12" coloured pencil portrait in a remarkably short period. Typically, I would not work at such a pace for a piece of this size, making this experience a notable exception.  This image illustrates the final drawings, with all framing presented in a simulated display using the ArtStage app. If you are interested in commissioning a lifelike, custom-made coloured pencil portrait or an acrylic painting of your pet, a loved one, or any other subject, you can find out more on my commissions page or contact me via email at: [email protected] to discuss your ideas for the portrait.
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Spectres of the Past: My Acrylic Painting of The Lion Tower at Warkworth Castle, Northumberland, UK22/9/2024
I am pleased to share one of my recent acrylic paintings entitled 'Keeper of The Castle'. This piece showcases the 'Lion Tower' located at Warkworth Castle in Northumberland, UK.
In this blog post, I provide historical insights related to the subject of my painting, describe the creative process involved in its development, and discuss the reasons behind my choice of this captivating theme. Additionally, this painting is currently available for purchase through my Art Store.
Nestled along the banks of the River Coquet, Warkworth Castle stands as a silent sentinel—a testament to centuries past. Its ancient stones echo with whispers of battles, love, and intrigue.
And there, on the little stair, a Jackdaw perches—a spectral observer bridging the gap between now and then. 
About 'Keeper of the Castle' Acrylic Painting of Warkworth Castle
As an artist with a focus on birds, I find myself fascinated by the rich history embodied in locations such as Warkworth Castle. The feet that have walked those steps through the centuries, and the wildlife that has traversed those grounds over time, have both played a role. It is this intertwining of history and nature that inspired the creation of this specific composition. You can read more about the creation of this painting by following this link.
My goal is not only to express texture through the brushstrokes but also to incorporate detailed textures into my paintings by enriching compositions that require such intricacy. The ancient stone steps, weathered by time, were depicted with an added layer of textured medium. This technique allows you to not only see the stonework within the paint but also to perceive it through the painting's tactile, raised surfaces.
The Enigmatic Jackdaw
And then there’s the Jackdaw, a bird steeped in symbolism. Intelligent, curious, and mysterious, it perches on the stair, its coal-black feathers catching the light. While the bird is the central figure in the painting, the artwork primarily depicts the history of the castle and its adjacent structures. The Jackdaw appeared to trail me as I took photographs of the weathered stone steps and the window, thus becoming a symbol of a ghostly spectre of bygone days.
A Brief History of Warkworth Castle
Warkworth Castle, with its imposing keep and curtain walls, stands as a medieval masterpiece, perched atop a hill overlooking the River Coquet. It is one of northern England’s largest and most impressive castles. The castle’s origins are veiled in antiquity, possibly dating back to the Iron Age. The exact founding date remains uncertain, but its current form, including the 'Lion Tower', the subject of my latest acrylic painting, emerged in the 14th century under the patronage of the formidable Percy family.
Overview of the Lion Tower and its Historical Significance
The Lion Tower at Warkworth Castle boasts a captivating history. Constructed circa 1480 by the 4th Earl of Northumberland, it functioned as the principal entry to the newly established bailey residence. The tower is distinguished by its remarkable heraldic sculptures, featuring a striking lion that represents the Percy family's power and prestige. The Lion Tower was intended as a majestic gateway, leading to the great hall where the household would convene. This hall was a 15th-century renovation of a pre-existing edifice dating back to around 1200. The architectural and ornamental features of the tower were designed to display the family's dynastic achievements and elevated status.
For those fascinated by the history of Warkworth Castle in Northumberland, a valuable video from the YouTube channel Castles and Legends. has been included. Spanning 12 minutes, it delves into the captivating history of the castle.
" Warkworth Castle, a once majestic fortress steeped in drama and history located in Northumberland, England. Its story is one of power, betrayal, and enduring legacy. "
Did You Know?
Northumberland is renowned for its impressive collection of over 70 castle sites, the highest in the UK. This abundance is a testament to the region's rich history and its strategic position near the Scottish border, which has led to the construction of numerous fortifications over the years. 
Visualisation sample only
If you are looking to purchase this painting, please contact me direct. You can also discover more original paintings featuring the birds and wildlife of Northumberland, alongside pieces on various other subjects. Consider dropping by to see if something catches your eye, particularly with Christmas on the horizon.
To commission a personal portrait, please visit my Commissions page for more information. Feel free to share your stories about your own trip to Warkworth Castle in the comments below. The creation process of my acrylic pet paintingsI'd like to share the process involved in creating my acrylic paintings. Even when I have several dog portraits on the easel, my method remains consistent, however, I may choose to enhance the artwork by incorporating different mediums or adding specialist colours. Here are two of my latest dog portraits: one features a Springer Spaniel swimming, and the other, a young female white Boxer. Springer Spaniel - Acrylic Painting on Ampersand Gessobord - Size: 11" x 14"Creating an acrylic portrait involves significant transformations of the artwork. I make it a point to photograph the painting at various stages. Observing the evolution of the painting is not only intriguing but also serves as a valuable tool to demonstrate its progression to others. In this segment, I will detail the process behind the creation of a painting featuring our Springer Spaniel, Casper. This piece is one of a quartet, each illustrating our dogs in water, which will be displayed together upon completion. 
Laying the Groundwork: Tonal Foundations and ContrastIn all my artwork, I begin with the foundational layers, starting by establishing tones and introducing contrasts. Initially, it may appear quite chaotic, but this process is essential for building upon these initial layers. This stage is critical for establishing tonal values and focusing on the different elements that make up the subject. 
Refining the Subject: Enhancing Form and PrecisionAt this current stage, the detail is somewhat lacking in precision, however, it could potentially be perceived as a more exaggerated interpretation of a subject. As an artist who relishes a challenge, I then move forward to further refine the painting in order to render the main subject with a greater sense of realism, ameliorating both the finer details and overall appearance. 
Balancing Realism and Interpretation in Photo-Based WorkMy paintings maintain a realistic quality whether viewed from afar or up close. However, not all of my works require the same level of precision; at times, a more relaxed interpretation yields a better result. Working from photographs often means dealing with images that aren't high-resolution and may lack essential details. This propels me into the exciting challenge of finding a balance between realism and artistic interpretation. 
Achieving the correct contrast can give a painting a three-dimensional appearance, even when viewed from a flat angle.
Now, let's explore the creation of another acrylic painting, featuring a charming little white Boxer puppy named Sprout. White Boxer Pup - Acrylic Painting on Ampersand Gessobord - Size: 8" x 8"At 8" x 8", this small painting is perfect for an intimate depiction of a nine-month-old Boxer puppy named Sprout. Recently welcomed into her new home with four other Boxer dogs, Sprout, like many puppies, dozed off in an unusual spot, snug in the bend of a friend's arm, with her little head resting in their hand. Choosing to craft a monochromatic portrait against a stark black backdrop guarantees that the attention is solely on the subject. 
Establishing Fur Flow and Tonal StructureDuring this preliminary phase, I carefully incorporate the fur details in a general manner to illustrate the flow and texture of the fur. Furthermore, I tentatively arrange the highlights and shadows, laying the groundwork for the meticulous addition of more intricate details in the next phase. 
Layering Detail with Precision BrushworkHere, the two stages are evident: the first with a thicker application, followed by a second with a finer touch. Each hair is individually painted using an ultra-fine brush, with a rigger brush being the perfect tool for such detailed work. To achieve a natural flow in the application of each hair, I rotate the canvas board as needed, even working upside down at times. 
Refining Contours and Preparing for Final VarnishHere, the fineness of the fur is evident. Although the painting is incomplete, the meticulous addition of each hair strand showcases the intricate contours of the Boxer dog's mouth and nose region. The concluding phase involves meticulously detailing the hand, and upon completion, the painting will be sealed with two layers of varnish for maximum preservation.
Thank you for exploring my article on how I create my acrylic paintings. Should you wish to commission a custom portrait, you can click any of the links below to visit the pages of interest. There, you can peruse my previous works, learn about the commissioning process, and either request a quote or book directly using the form. Alternatively, you can contact me direct at: [email protected]
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AuthorKaren M Berisford Choose tags below to search the news blog directory, or quickly find each blog through the News Blog Archives page.
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