Latest News for the UK Artist Karen M Berisford

Capturing Rooster: A Photorealistic Pencil Portrait of a Boxer dog in Coloured Pencil

15/12/2024

Welcome to my latest blog post, where I document the progress of another of my coloured pencil drawing of a Boxer dog called Rooster. This blog showcases the process I use to create my lifelike pencil portrait of a Boxer dog, from the early stages to completion.

Finished coloured pencil artwork of a Boxer dog, framed in a simulated brown wood

I always begin my portrait process by meticulously rendering the eyes, as they are crucial for capturing the subject's unique personality and lifelike expression. From there, I move on to the nose, the progressively work outwards, building the portrait through a series of carefully applied layers of colour. My focus at this stage is on creating realistic depth and dimension. Each subsequent layer is precisely added to achieve the desired texture and tone, with particular attention paid to intricate details like Rooster's distinctive markings and individual strands of fur.

Layering of fur to create realistic texture on a Boxer dog's face, coloured pencil artwork.

Capturing the Boxer's Unique Character

As I begin to build up the layers, I employ a diverse palette of colours to meticulously sculpt the distinctive creases and contours of a Boxer's facial features. This intricate layering is essential for rendering their unique facial structure with accuracy and depth.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of portraying a Boxer is creating the mouth. The significant definition around this area is crucial, as it profoundly contributes to revealing the true character and expression of the dog. With years of experience and numerous Boxer portraits under my belt, these techniques have become second nature, allowing me to fully capture each personality.

Meticulously sculpting the distinctive creases and contours of a Boxer's facial features using Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils

My Artistic Process in Motion

I enjoy recording time-lapse videos during my creative process; they effectively demonstrate how my coloured pencil drawings come to life. While seemingly brief, the two videos below condense just over three hours of drawing time, offering a comprehensive look at the intricate layering involved.
My process typically begins with the eyes. This has become both an ingrained habit and a strategic choice developed over 40 years of working with coloured pencils. This initial focus allows for precision from the outset, making the rest of the portrait much easier to complete.

Crafting with Coloured Pencil: My Preferred Brands:

I create my coloured pencil portraits using a carefully curated selection of lightfast pencils, predominantly Caran d'A'che Luminance, alongside Derwent's Lightfast, Coloursoft, and Drawing ranges. These are layered onto Bockingford hot-pressed paper, a high-quality, heavyweight British-made support specifically chosen for its capacity to handle numerous layers of pigment. This unique combination allows me to achieve the high level of detail you see in my art.

Curious about how Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils contribute to the intricate detail in my work? Read the full article on my other website, www.stepbystepart.com. This is a website by artists, for artists, with articles, guides, hints and tips plus tutorials, aimed at artists of all calibre.

Close-up of a hand meticulously adding finishing touches to a detailed Boxer dog drawing.

Thanks for reading!
If you're looking for a unique and personal piece of art, I create custom, lifelike portraits in both coloured pencil and acrylics, perfect for capturing the spirit of your pet, a loved one, or any other significant subject. Discover more about the commissioning process on my Commissions page, request a quote, or feel free to reach out directly via email to share your vision. For a more expressive artistic approach, consider my oil pastel portraits.

Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford working at the easel completing a coloured pencil drawing of an English Bulldog

COMMISSION DETAILS & PRICING

Coloured pencil drawing of a black Labrador Retriever cross in a black frame

COLOURED PENCILS GALLERY

Coloured pencil drawing of a Cocker Spaniel and Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils

REQUEST A QUOTE OR BOOK HERE

A framed coloured pencil drawing of an Alaskan Husky by UK artist Karen M Berisford

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIALS

0 Comments

A Heartfelt Testimonial: Red Fox Labrador Pet Portrait Commission in Coloured Pencils

29/5/2022

0 Comments

I’ve recently completed a commissioned portrait of Dougal, a Red Fox Labrador, and I’m delighted with the result. Pet portraits are the cornerstone of my work, and this particular piece was commissioned by a returning client who wanted to give a thoughtful birthday gift to a family member.

As with every commission, I approached Dougal’s portrait with care and attention to detail, working to reflect not only his physical markings but the personality that shines through them. It’s always a privilege to be entrusted with such a task, knowing how much these portraits mean to the families who request them.

UK artist Karen M Berisford working on a coloured pencil drawing of a Red Fox Labrador

The primary reference photograph provided had a strong composition, with Dougal looking every inch the proud Labrador, but it lacked natural colour and detail. Fortunately, the client supplied additional photographs, which proved invaluable for teasing out the finer details, such as the warmth in Dougal’s eyes and the rich, russet hues of his coat. I chose to omit the leash from the final portrait, as it distracted from his presence and added little to the overall effect.

Red Fox Labrador image for a pet portrait commission

REFERENCE IMAGE

Living in Northumberland, Labradors are a common sight, and as the owner of two myself, I regularly see Red Fox Labradors while walking my dogs. Their distinctive reddish coats are a hallmark of the breed, and this familiarity helped me ensure Dougal’s portrait was authentic. The original photograph’s unnatural hue required careful adjustment to reflect the true vibrancy of his colouring. To ensure accuracy, I supplemented this with online research, studying images of other Red Fox Labradors to capture the breed’s unique characteristics.

Work in progress - A coloured pencil drawing of a Red Fox Labrador called Dougal, by Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford

For me, a pet portrait is never just a copy of a photograph, it’s a study in character. Capturing the essence of a Labrador means honouring that quiet loyalty, gentle warmth, and the subtle expressions that make them such cherished companions. This particular commission was a genuine pleasure to undertake, from the initial reference selection to the final pencil strokes. I aimed to reflect not only the physical likeness but the personality so well known and loved by the family and I hope the portrait brings joy to the recipient for many years to come. Not long after delivery, I received this thoughtful testimonial from the client:

A coloured pencil drawing of a Red fox Labrador in a teak frame with name plate

A BIG THANK YOU to Karen for her fantastic piece of work to complete
the portrait of Dougal.

This was a gift for my cousin and he loved it! It's got pride of place on his wall!

Karen has managed to capture Dougal exactly with the exquisite colour and
detail and professional finish.

I couldn't recommend Karen's service enough, she has been proactive in communication and I felt part of the commission throughout the process.

Thank you again, Mike

Accompanying the testimonial is Dougal’s portrait, expertly framed by a local artisan in a style that matches the earlier portraits of Seamus and Rua, Dougal’s sister. While I do not provide framing as part of my pencil portrait service due to the potential risk of damage during transit, it is always gratifying to see the finished artwork beautifully presented and ready to be cherished in its new home.

It’s always lovely to receive feedback from clients. Every commission is created with care, and it’s impossible not to become attached to the pet you're portraying. You know you’ll likely never meet them in person, yet after hours spent studying their features, every tiny marking and (im)perfection, you could pick them out in a crowd.

Red Fox Labradors and black Labrador coloured pencil drawings by Karen M Berisford

The photograph above shows all three Labrador portraits I created for Mike and his family. The top two feature Rua and Seamus, completed last year as a birthday gift for Mike’s father. Although each was drawn independently from individual reference images, it’s rewarding to see them displayed together as a complete trio.

If you're interested in commissioning a pet portrait, the image links below will take you to the relevant pages. Each section offers a different route, whether you're browsing more of my work, exploring portrait options, or wish to request a quote or make a booking, or get in touch direct.

Black Labrador Retriever and Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils

COLOURED PENCIL GALLERY & PRICES

English Bulldog coloured pencil drawing by Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford

HOW TO COMMISSION A PORTRAIT

Double pet portrait of two mixed breed rescue dogs in coloured pencils

VISIT THE PET PORTRAITS GALLERY

request a quote or book here

0 Comments

Custom Pet Art: English Bulldog in Coloured Pencil

7/10/2020

0 Comments

I was recently commissioned to create a stunning coloured pencil drawing of an English Bulldog for a client. This client, Carol, had previously asked me to create two beautiful portraits of her beloved pets: a red English Bulldog named Buster and a white English Bulldog named Reggie. Now, she has another adorable Bulldog named Rufus, and she wanted a third portrait to join the collection, creating a lovely trio of coloured pencil portraits to display in her home.

Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford working on a lifelike coloured pencil drawing of a red English Bulldog called Rufus

Prior to working on the portraits of Buster and Reggie, I had not had the opportunity to create a pet portrait of an English Bulldog. Their unique character is truly remarkable, with the distinctive wrinkles and folds in their faces that are somewhat reminiscent of those of the Boxer dog. Having completed over 40 portraits of the Boxer dog breed, I have always thoroughly enjoyed the creative process for each one. My extensive experience in creating Boxer dog portraits, coupled with the excellent reference photograph provided, greatly simplified the process.

Creating a coloured pencil drawing of a red English Bulldog

The realism of my coloured pencil portraits is greatly influenced by the quality of the photographs provided. High-resolution images enable me to capture even the minutest details by zooming in. Working from subjects photographed in natural light is significantly easier, as it eliminates the need to interpret details lost to overexposure or distortion from artificial lighting conditions. The precision of my pencil work will reveal the areas in the photograph that may lack essential detail, which can lead to a less refined portrait. With more than 35 years of experience in working with coloured pencils, I gravitate towards high realism because I relish the challenge it presents.

A lifelike coloured pencil drawing of a red English Bulldog called Rufus

If you're considering commissioning a custom pet portrait of your English Bulldog or another breed, I will provide useful links for you to learn more about the process before contacting me.
You're welcome to reach out directly as your initial inquiry, but if you're just looking to gather information before deciding, feel free to explore my pencil gallery and/or pet portraits gallery to view the range of portraits I've crafted over the years.

In addition to Coloured Pencils, I also work with Acrylics and Oil Pastels, each providing unique finishes. You can visit each gallery by clicking on the provided links below.

coloured pencil gallery & prices

pet portraits gallery

A coloured pencil drawing of a couple and their French Bulldog

how to commission a portrait

Karen M Berisford drawing a coloured pencil drawing of a Springer Spaniel in the sea

request a quote or book here

0 Comments

Cocker Spaniel Art: Acrylic Painting from Traditional Photographs

17/12/2017

0 Comments

BEN
Cocker Spaniel in Acrylics

Size: 9" x 12"
Completed: 16th December 2017

This article provides insight into the meticulous process of creating an acrylic painting portraying Ben, a Cocker Spaniel, from the initial photograph to the final framed piece. Sadly, Ben had died in January 2016, prompting Kathleen to contact me with a request to create a portrait of him as a Christmas gift for her niece. Continue reading for a detailed account of this process.

Acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel in a beautiful field

Kathleen only had physical photographs of Ben, and although I typically work with digital images, I understand that there are times when only physical photos are available. Ideally, it is best to scan these and email them to me, allowing me to determine if I can work from one of them. Since Kathleen did not have access to a scanner, she sent the photos directly to me via special delivery so that I could scan them. I kept the photos safe and returned them to her along with the painting.

Photograph of a Cocker Spaniel for an acrylic painting

Working from physical photographs

The image above served as the reference for Sam's portrait. As evident from the magnified version, it possesses almost no definition. Digital photographs provide me with the ability to enhance detail through adjustments. In contrast, physical photographs typically lack the level of detail found in digital images, so zooming in on a scanned file yields very little clarity. When I am creating a pet portrait and can access additional photographs of the same breed online, it almost always provides a beneficial solution.

Early progress of an acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel

Progress of an acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel

Refining the detail of an acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel

Completed acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel

In this case, I was able to provide a generalised interpretation of Sam, suggesting that a full-body portrait is the most feasible option due to the absence of fine detail. Although head-and-shoulders portraits are the most commonly requested format, full-body portraits deliver a more classical presentation. The background was chosen from my personal photographic collection, following a collaborative process with Kathleen to identify the most appropriate option.

Acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel in a teak frame

Kathleen requested that the painting be framed to enhance the presentation of the portrait as a complete package. I presented her with a selection of frame samples for her consideration. She ultimately selected a teak moulding. Upon receiving her confirmation that no further modifications were required, I moved on to the varnishing stage. After ensuring safe packaging, I dispatched the item with a 24-hour express delivery service to ensure its arrival the following day.

Acrylic painting of a Cocker Spaniel in a tranquil surroundings within a teak frame

" Portrait arrived safely and I am delighted with it. The likeness is amazing and I know my niece is going to love it. Here's wishing you a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful and healthy New Year! "
Kathleen R

For more information about my custom-made portraits, please explore the links below. You can view the complete collection of my work in the pet portraits gallery, which includes pieces created with Coloured Pencils as well as Oil Pastels.

Should you be interested in commissioning a custom portrait, find out more on the 'How to commission a portrait' link below.

Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford working on an acrylic painting of a bay horse

how to commission a portrait

acrylic paintings gallery & prices

request a quote or book here

0 Comments

The meticulous process of a coloured pencil drawing - BuBu the Boxer dog

27/11/2017

0 Comments

Portrait size: 12" x 12"

BuBu had recently passed away, and Joanne wanted to gift her husband a portrait of him for Christmas as a heartfelt tribute to their much-loved Boxer dog. Planning the surprise came with its challenges, as she needed her husband to unknowingly help select his favourite images, so we could identify one suitable for reference. Joanne shared a wide array of photos; while many weren't ideal for a formal portrait, they were full of insight into BuBu’s colouring and character, helping me understand the soul behind the dog. This page walks through how BuBu's portrait came together, offering a glimpse into the process that shaped it.

A coloured pencil drawing of a Boxer dog within a scenic background

Before any pencil touched paper, the first challenge was to create the perfect reference image, and that takes time. It doesn’t matter how many photos a client sends, or how many tweaks are needed to get there; what matters is finding the image that truly works. In BuBu’s case, it took nearly three weeks to finalise the composition. The best photo had been taken indoors with uneven lighting, and his ears were unnaturally positioned, not quite the natural stance we wanted.

A photograph of a Boxer dog which was used for a coloured pencil drawing.

A mock up taken from a photograph of a Boxer dog which was used as reference for a coloured pencil drawing.

I ended up superimposing his ears from a second photo to achieve a more relaxed pose. I also made subtle adjustments to the proportions, reducing his head size slightly to better balance with his body. His eyes were tweaked so that he looked forward, and I softened his mouth and harmonised the facial tones using details from several other photos. Joanne had also sent images of a park they used to walk in together, which became the backdrop, quietly framing the portrait without taking focus from BuBu himself.

Working on a coloured pencil drawing of a Fawn Boxer dog with a scenic background

The fur in my coloured pencil drawings is built up using fine individual strokes, adding depth and enhancing realism.

As expected, the most time-consuming part of BuBu’s portrait was carefully rendering the leaves across the background trees. With years of experience drawing Boxer dogs in coloured pencil, the process of capturing BuBu’s likeness came more naturally, but I found myself spending extra time refining the finer details to make the piece feel truly lifelike. Working on a larger 12" x 12" format allowed room for precision and gave space for a scenic background that beautifully framed BuBu’s gentle pose without pulling attention away from him. Below are a few in-progress images that offer a glimpse into how the portrait evolved during the drawing process.

Early stage of a pet portrait showing the completed eyes and nose in coloured pencil.

Boxer dog pet portrait in progress, with layers of coloured pencil detail being developed.

Adding background details to a Boxer dog portrait in coloured pencil.

Finalising the fine details on a Boxer dog portrait in coloured pencil.

CUSTOMER TESTIMONIAL

A coloured pencil drawing of a Boxer dog framed in a white moulding

This image illustrates the final drawing, with framing in a simulated display using the ArtStage app

" Just wanted to let you know that I absolutely love BuBu. He has now gone for framing and I will send a picture to you when I get him back next week. Once Christmas is over and Shane has received the gift, you are more than welcome to Bu's progress and final image online. It is just amazing. "

Joanne Keane
Dublin, Ireland

If you're looking for a unique gift or a way to commemorate a special occasion, I offer custom pet portraits of all dog breeds as well as other beloved pets. I ensure a realistic and heartfelt representation of your beloved pet. For more information, please visit the links below or get in touch through my Contact page or email me at: [email protected] to share your ideas.
Update July 2025: At the moment, I’m unable to ship to the EU and Northern Ireland due to current GSPR regulations. You can find more information about this on my Terms & Service page.

Working on a coloured pencil drawing of a Springer Spaniel.

COMMISSION DETAILS & PRICING

COLOURED PENCILS GALLERY

An oil pastel painting of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

VIEW THE PET PORTRAITS GALLERY

Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils were used to create this black Labrador Retriever

REQUEST A QUOTE OR BOOK HERE

0 Comments

Bespoke Portraits: Springer Spaniels plus a Couple and their Adorable French Bulldog

29/12/2016

0 Comments

This Christmas, I was inundated with commissions. I had to complete five within six weeks, presenting a significant challenge. Typically, a single portrait takes three to five weeks, so this period was exceptionally hectic. Nevertheless, all commissions were finished and dispatched to customers well within the deadline. Below, I have provided the details of each commission, the final portraits, and the accompanying customer testimonials.
Discover three bespoke commissions: two vibrant Springer Spaniels in acrylics and a heartwarming triple portrait featuring a couple and their adorable French Bulldog, meticulously rendered in coloured pencils.

Buddy - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

The client, Esther, commissioned a portrait of her Springer Spaniel, Buddy, as a Christmas gift for her husband, Steve. She selected a favourite photo, and I created several mock-ups for her to choose from. The final reference was a composite of five images, body, head, tail, background, and flowers, all merged to form a cohesive scene. Balancing lighting across these sources was challenging, but the high-quality photos provided enough detail to achieve a natural, unified result.

Springer Spaniel sat on grass in front of border plants

The grass alone took the most time, with each blade applied in three layers to build depth. The chosen size allowed for a full-body portrait, which gave the piece its intended impact. For commissions with scenic backgrounds, I begin by painting the landscape in detail, then refine the areas where subject and setting meet. In Buddy’s portrait, I aimed for a richly textured foreground with a softly blurred background to draw focus to the subject.

You can discover more about the process of Buddy's portrait here.

First stages of a Springer Spaniel sat on grass Acrylic painting

The base layer - Very messy but important

Acrylic painting of a Springer Spaniel sat on grass with beautiful border flowers in the background

The final completed painting

"I'm sitting looking at Buddy in pride of place on the wall, photo attached! It is absolutely lovely and it had the desired effect on Steve when he unwrapped - there were tears!! Everyone that has seen it has said how amazing it is with the amount of fine detail and so Buddy. If I manage to get a decent photo of Buddy next to it I will send it on! Thank you once again, it is lovely to have a painting of Buddy forever."
Esther

Dudley - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

The client, Andrea, commissioned a portrait of Dudley as a Christmas gift for her mother. Although they provided a favourite photo, it was too small and pixelated to support the level of detail required. However, she was able to provide additional images which was taken in natural light, which allowed me to accurately capture Dudley's distinctive features, rich brown tones, and subtle markings. These references were essential in achieving a realistic and characterful result.

Springer Spaniel jumping through long grass on a sunny day photograph

The early stages of an acrylic painting often appear chaotic. Acrylics dry quickly, which can be challenging at first, but with experience and control, this quality becomes an advantage. I find their fast drying time ideal for building detail with precision, allowing me to work efficiently and layer complex textures without delay. In Dudley's portrait, I spent particular care on the blades of grass, layering them to ensure the sunlight fell naturally and enhanced the warmth of the scene.
To learn more about how Dudley’s portrait came together, visit his page here.

Colour wash to complete a springer spaniel acrylic painting

Finalising the painting with a tonal wash

Acrylic painting on Ampersand Gessobord of a Springer spaniel running through long grass in the sun

The final painting

"Just wanted to let you know that mum loves her portrait and we all cried our eyes out when we first saw it. What you've done is so special and we couldn't have asked for a better painting to remember him by. It captures his brilliant personality so well. I'll definitely be recommending you to my spaniel loving friends!
Andrea xx."

Diarmid, Max & Kyla - A Couple and their French Bulldog Drawing in Coloured Pencils

Diarmid kindly sent over a lovely reference photo featuring himself, his partner Max, and their charming French Bulldog, Kyla, captured during a visit to Pennan in Aberdeenshire. They were standing in front of the iconic red telephone box made famous by the film Local Hero, a well-known landmark that adds a touch of cinematic history to the village. While the phone box itself was a strong compositional element, the remainder of the background offered little visual value, so we agreed to simplify the setting. To retain a sense of place without distraction, I inscribed ‘Pennan’ discreetly in the corner of the finished portrait, a subtle nod to the location that keeps the focus on the trio’s character and connection.

Couple and their French Bulldog at Pennan in Aberdeenshire

The original image, taken on a mobile phone, lacked clarity in some of the finer details, particularly around facial features and Kyla’s expression. Fortunately, the precision afforded by coloured pencils allowed me to restore the sharpness and bring out the individuality of each subject with care. I thoroughly enjoyed working on this piece, it was a pleasure to create such a meaningful moment into a highly realistic portrait. I always welcome a challenge, especially when it involves capturing the warmth and personality of both people and pets in a way that feels true to life.

Early progress of a coloured pencil drawing of a couple and their French Bulldog

Highly detailed Coloured pencil portrait of a man and his girlfriend with their French Bulldog

The final portrait treated with an application of UV fixative

"Hi Karen , Hope you had a lovely Christmas. Wanted to drop you a note to say that Max absolutely loved the portrait! She couldn't believe how well you'd captured the detail from the photo and was thrilled to pieces! We've already recommended you to friends and family and am sure we'll use your amazing skills again in the the future. Have a great New Year!! Diarmid"

visit Diarmid's page

Pyppa & William - Bearded Collies in Coloured pencils

This portrait was commissioned by my friend Jet as a Christmas gift for her mum, Ann. At 11" x 17", it was a custom size chosen to accommodate a double portrait of her two Bearded Collies, Pyppa & William. Given the density and length of their coats, along with the need for anatomical accuracy, a larger format was essential to preserve detail and proportion.

A double portrait of Bearded Collie's created in coloured pencils

For every portrait I create, I retain a printed outline of the composition. If a client later requests a second piece to match an earlier one, I can use that outline to ensure the sizing and layout remain consistent. This portrait was designed to match a second portrait of Ann’s two dogs, 8 years apart, created after she lost Pyppa and William. The two portraits are shown below in a virtual room setting created using the ArtStage app.

2 coloured pencil drawings of Bearded Collie's and mixed breed rescue dogs

Kita - Akita dog in Acrylics

This Christmas commission was created from very limited reference material. Most of the photos were taken with flash, which distorted the colour and obscured finer details. Although the pose was strong, the image lacked clarity, so I researched the breed and used careful interpretation to guide the painting. Drawing on years of experience in pet portraiture, I added detail beyond what the photo provided. Each hair was painted with a fine brush, and through layered brushwork, I was able to enhance the realism and bring Kita’s likeness to life.
You can read more about his portrait and how it came together here.

If you're considering a commission, whether it's a portrait of your pet, a loved one, or a landscape that holds meaning, for a special moment or event, you can explore each option by clicking the images below to learn more about what’s involved.
To request a no-obligation quote or book a portrait, you’re welcome to fill in the form or contact me directly.

A highly detailed coloured pencil drawing of a boxer dog

COLOURED PENCILS GALLERY & PRICES

An acrylic painting commissioned of a grey horse and young girl

ACRYLIC PAINTINGS & PRICES

A realistic oil pastel painting of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

COMMISSION A PET PORTRAIT

An acrylic painting of a yellow labrador retriever swimming

HOW TO COMMISSION A PORTRAIT

0 Comments

Capturing Obie: A Heartfelt Acrylic Painting Tribute of a Boxer dog

15/8/2016

0 Comments

OBIE

Portrait size: 11" x 14"
Completed August 2016

Back in 2016, I had the pleasure of creating a beautiful portrait for a Boxer dog group on Facebook. They wanted to surprise one of their members called Di, who lives in the United States, with a stunning painting of their beloved dog, Obie. Almost 40 Facebook friends joined forces to arrange this surprise portrait, and it was heartwarming to learn of her joy upon receiving such a considerate gift from wonderful friends.
Continue reading to discover the creation process of the painting.

Progress of an acrylic painting depicting a Fawn Boxer dog

Painting the fine detail on an acrylic painting of a Boxer dog

The diligent and experienced photographer, Obie's owner, had provided me with a reference image of exceptional quality. The single, large digital image allowed me to zoom in and carefully capture all the intricate details, ensuring that the resulting painting of Obie was highly detailed and fully showcased his unique and handsome features.

Close up of the fine detail in an acrylic Boxer dog portrait

A Boxer dog acrylic painting on a 3mm Ampersand Gessobord surfaace

The technique starts with a basic layer of colour, followed by roughly placed markings that help to establish the contrasts and highlights. This phase enables the refinement of details to an even greater extent in the subsequent layers. This refinement progresses until the details are sufficiently defined to my satisfaction, at which point I then proceed to the varnishing phase.

A custom made acrylic painting of a Fawn Boxer dog

Boxer dog acrylic painting in a teak coloured frame

" Karen, Your painting brought tears to my eyes and a huge smile to my lips.
He's home, on my wall. You did an awesome job of capturing my beautiful boy, Obie.
He looks like you could reach out and touch him. Thank you! I love it. "

Northumberland artist Karen M Berisford holding an acrylic painting of a fawn Boxer dog in a washed ivory frame

My acrylic paintings are created using a mixture of vibrant pigment and sometimes I will include a medium or two, which provides texture. This painting involves applying the paste onto the canvas using a palette knife, before applying the paint, which adds more texture and detail to my artwork and enhances its overall quality. I used this technique when creating Obie's portrait, giving the painting a stronger sense of structure and character.

Upon completing the painting, I added a layer of varnish for protection. Although the painting was commissioned unframed, I located an extra frame in my studio which I utilised for the display image provided. Upon receipt of the portrait, Di shared a photo of the painting once it had been placed in its forever frame.

0 Comments

Custom Graphite Portrait: A Wynyard Hall Wedding Keepsake

29/6/2016

0 Comments

This article was first published in 2016 to document a graphite pencil commission of Wynyard Hall, it has been updated in 2025, to include current information about commissioning graphite portraits, particularly for weddings, engagements, and other milestone occasions.

Back in 2013, I was approached by a couple planning their wedding at Wynyard Hall, Billingham. They wanted a graphite pencil drawing of the venue to display on the day, something guests could sign around the mount as part of their celebration. It was a thoughtful idea, and one that turned into a striking centrepiece. Rather than being purely decorative, the drawing was integrated into the celebration itself.

A large, irregular custom made graphite pencil portrait of Wynyard Hall

A custom-ordered, non-standard-sized piece designed to commemorate a wedding day.

With no personal photographs available, I contacted Wynyard Hall directly and was granted permission to use one of their high-resolution images. After receiving approval, I commenced work on the portrait. The final piece measured 12 by 24 inches, tailored to suit the scale of the building and the couple’s plans for guest messages. Though I don’t routinely promote graphite commissions, it remains a selective option for architectural subjects where tonal control and detail are paramount.

A framed portrait of a Graphite drawing of Wynyard Hall

Framed before the big day!

We worked through framing options to ensure the mount could accommodate handwritten notes, although the mount could have been wider due to the amount of people wanting to sign it on the day. The couple opted for a simple black frame, coupled with a dual mount and a silver plaque inset, engraved with the venue name and wedding date. These details made the piece personal without overwhelming the composition, especially as the messages would play such a large part.

Wynyard Hall graphite portrait with a black frame and wedding guest signatures added to the mount

The completed portrait featuring the well wishes of wedding guests inscribed on the mount.

The drawing was completed in just over three weeks, ahead of the couple’s collection date. Framing was arranged locally and finished in time for their trip to collect the portrait, just in time for their wedding. While large-scale commissions typically require more time, I will always do my best to accommodate specific deadlines, especially when the portrait is tied to a wedding or milestone event.
This Wynyard Hall commission remains one of the most emotionally resonant wedding pieces I’ve produced.

Custom-made wedding portraits and for other special ocassions

If you're considering a graphite pencil portrait as a gift, whether for a wedding, birthday, or simply to mark a meaningful moment, pricing and commission details are listed below. I’ve outlined the commissioning process in detail in ‘Portraits As Gifts: 'A Guide to Commissioning Meaningful Art’, or use the booking form to request a no-obligation quote. To get started, just send over a favourite photo, or message me if you'd like help choosing. This helps me understand the kind of portrait you're after and how best to approach it.

Choose your favourite photo of the subject(s) - Need Help?
Select your desired portrait size - See sizes & pricing above
Decide on the background - Standard, tonal or scenic
Click the link to request a quote or book your custom portrait

Created for a 60th birthday of a beloved wife, commissioned by my uncle.

A graphite pencil portrait of Wynyard Hall in County Durham, UK

A Grenadier Guard graphite pencil portrait, created from a small, black and white photo

A young boy and young girl created in Graphite pencils commissioned by their mum

A graphite pencil portrait of an adult white Boxer dog and a young Boxer dog

A graphite portrait of a baby commissioned by a friend

These are a small collection of my early graphite pencil portraits, completed between the 1990s and early 2010s. Subjects range from portraits of children, pets, and loved ones marking significant birthdays or milestones. Each piece was created with close attention to tone, likeness, and character, qualities I continue to prioritise in all current commissions.

If you're considering a colour portrait, I also work in coloured pencil, acrylic, and oil pastel. Each medium offers a distinct finish, but all are suited to highly realistic work. You can explore the links below to learn more about each option and how they might suit your subject.

Coloured pencil drawing of a black Labrador Retriever next to Caran d'Ache Luminance pencils

COLOURED PENCIL GALLERY & PRICES

An acrylic painting of a young girl on her grey horse

ACRYLICS GALLERY & PRICES

OIL PASTELS GALLERY & PRICES

HOW TO COMMISSION A PORTRAIT

0 Comments

SERVICES

Art Store
Original Art For Sale
Custom made Portraits
Gift Vouchers
The Art Hub (For Artists)

Looking for something specific?

COMMISSIONS

Book A Portrait
Prices & Ordering
A Guide to Portraits As Gifts
Art Gallery
Pet Portraits Gallery
Coloured Pencil Portraits
Acrylic Paintings
Framing Info.
Photography Tips

HELP & INFORMATION

Customer Testimonials
News Blog
News Blog Archives
About The Artist
Get In Touch
Terms & Services
Privacy Policy
Site Map
Landing page

Images and text within this website are Copyright of Karen M Berisford 2010 - 2026
No content should be used, copied or distributed in any way without express consent from Karen M Berisford

Capturing Rooster: A Photorealistic Pencil Portrait of a Boxer dog in Coloured Pencil

Capturing the Boxer's Unique Character

My Artistic Process in Motion

Crafting with Coloured Pencil: My Preferred Brands:

A Heartfelt Testimonial: Red Fox Labrador Pet Portrait Commission in Coloured Pencils

Custom Pet Art: English Bulldog in Coloured Pencil

Cocker Spaniel Art: Acrylic Painting from Traditional Photographs

BEN
Cocker Spaniel in Acrylics

Working from physical photographs

The meticulous process of a coloured pencil drawing - BuBu the Boxer dog

Bespoke Portraits: Springer Spaniels plus a Couple and their Adorable French Bulldog

Buddy - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

Dudley - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

Diarmid, Max & Kyla - A Couple and their French Bulldog Drawing in Coloured Pencils

Pyppa & William - Bearded Collies in Coloured pencils

Kita - Akita dog in Acrylics

Capturing Obie: A Heartfelt Acrylic Painting Tribute of a Boxer dog

OBIE

Portrait size: 11" x 14"
Completed August 2016

Custom Graphite Portrait: A Wynyard Hall Wedding Keepsake

Custom-made wedding portraits and for other special ocassions

Author

Categories

Archives

Get In Touch

SERVICES

COMMISSIONS

HELP & INFORMATION

​​Capturing the Boxer's Unique Character

​​My Artistic Process in Motion

Crafting with Coloured Pencil: My Preferred Brands:

BENCocker Spaniel in Acrylics

Working from physical photographs

​​Buddy - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

​​Dudley - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

​​Diarmid, Max & Kyla - A Couple and their French Bulldog Drawing in Coloured Pencils

​​Pyppa & William - Bearded Collies in Coloured pencils

​​Kita - Akita dog in Acrylics

OBIE

Portrait size: 11" x 14"​Completed August 2016

Custom-made wedding portraits and for other special ocassions

Author

Categories

Archives

Get In Touch

​SERVICES

​COMMISSIONS

​HELP & INFORMATION

Capturing the Boxer's Unique Character

My Artistic Process in Motion

BEN
Cocker Spaniel in Acrylics

Buddy - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

Dudley - Springer Spaniel Portrait in Acrylics

Diarmid, Max & Kyla - A Couple and their French Bulldog Drawing in Coloured Pencils

Pyppa & William - Bearded Collies in Coloured pencils

Kita - Akita dog in Acrylics

Portrait size: 11" x 14"
Completed August 2016

SERVICES

COMMISSIONS

HELP & INFORMATION