Behind the Artist: My Journey as a Pet Portrait Artist in Glasgow

May 3, 2025

Hello, fellow pet lovers!

I’m Hannah Kelly, a pet portrait artist based in Glasgow, though I’m originally from Kent. I thought I’d share a bit about my story, how my love for animals and art led me to become a professional pet portrait artist, and what inspires me to do what I do every day.

The Early Days: A Lifelong Love for Art and Animals

Art has always been a part of me. Some of my earliest memories are of drawing my childhood pet, Sasha, a sweet chocolate labrador who had an amazing knack for making everything more fun.

Drawing her as a child felt so natural. Looking back, I can see how that early connection between art and animals set the foundation for what I’d eventually do for a living.

I studied History of Art at the University of Nottingham and worked in the art world for over five years. But when the pandemic changed the way we all looked at life, I made a bold decision. I left my job in the art world, pursued a career in charity fundraising, and began looking for new ways to follow my heart.

As time went on, I realised that my true calling was right where I started, with animals and art.

And so, I took a leap of faith and started my pet portrait business. It’s been an incredible journey, and every day feels like I’m living my dream.

Why Pets? Why Portraits?

So, why did I choose pet portraits? The answer is simple: pets bring so much love and happiness into our lives. Their unique personalities, their quirks, their little expressions, they fill our hearts with joy. It’s no wonder we often feel so deeply connected to them.

For me, there’s something magical about capturing that bond between an animal and its human. Pets aren’t just animals; they’re family. Whether it’s a dog that always knows when you need a cuddle, a cat that has perfected the art of laziness, or a rabbit that hops around bringing joy wherever it goes – I aim to translate that personality and emotion into a piece of art that can be cherished forever.

How I Create: Pastel Pencils and a Lot of Love

When it comes to creating my pet portraits, I work with pastel pencils and still occasionally with graphite pencils. I love pastel pencils because they give me the ability to create realistic textures and fine details, whether it’s the soft fur of a cat, the shiny coat of a dog, or the expressive eyes that make every pet so unique. The result is a portrait that’s full of life, capturing not just what your pet looks like, but also what makes them them.

Take a look at my portfolio yourself!

The First Six Months: A Rollercoaster of Learning and Growth

Starting my pet portrait business has been an adventure full of lessons. My first Christmas season was a whirlwind! I had the pleasure of working on 17 Christmas commissions, and I even showcased my work at three local Christmas markets. I also ventured into creating greeting cards, learning along the way that less is more when it comes to designs!

One of my biggest takeaways was the importance of managing commissions carefully, I quickly realised that I could take on too much at once, and I’ll definitely be encouraging clients to book their Christmas portraits earlier next year. Another big lesson? Outdoor winter markets are freezing, especially in stormy weather! I definitely learned the importance of layering up.

But even in the face of challenges, I found that the support from the local community has been amazing. A small compliment from a stranger can make all the difference on a long, cold market day – and it kept me motivated!

Looking Ahead: Exciting Times Ahead

I’m so grateful for the journey so far, and I’m excited about what’s coming up. Over the next few months, I’m participating in several events in and around Glasgow, where I’ll be showcasing my latest work. I’m also working on expanding my offerings, adding more custom portrait options and unique prints to my shop.

2025 holds so much potential, and I can’t wait to share more of my work with you. I’m incredibly excited to continue doing what I love – capturing the love and bond between people and their pets.

How to Commission Your Own Pet Portrait

If you’d like to create a lasting memory of your pet, I’d love to work with you!

Commissioning a portrait is simple, check out more details on how to here. I also offer gift vouchers, which make the perfect thoughtful gift for a friend, family member, or even yourself.

Let’s Connect!

I love hearing from fellow pet lovers, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you’re interested in commissioning a portrait or if you just want to chat about your pets! I’m based here in Glasgow and am so proud to be part of such a warm, supportive local community.

Thank you for reading my story, and for all of the support you’ve given me so far. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to do what I love every single day, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next.

Connect with Me:

Explore my portfolio and see more of my work here.
Learn more about commissioning a custom pet portrait here.
Stay updated on my latest events and new artwork by joining my mailing list here.

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