From Sketchbook to Market Stall A Day in the Life of a Glasgow Pet Portrait Artist

A Market Day with My Pet Portraits

There is something special about bringing my artwork out of the studio and into the world. For me, taking part in craft markets around Glasgow is about more than selling prints. It is about sharing moments with people who love their pets as much as I do. Each market has its own rhythm, and every time I set up my stall, it feels a little bit like opening the door to a tiny gallery for the day.

Preparing for Market

The day starts quietly, with careful packing. I select a mix of original pastel pet portraits, limited edition prints, bookmarks and other small keepsakes. Each piece is chosen with care, a small collection of work that I hope will make someone smile. I think about how it might sit in someone’s home, how it could be wrapped as a thoughtful gift or framed as wall art.

I always bring my sketchbook and pastel pencils too. I love creating at the stall. It lets people see how each piece begins, how those soft lines slowly build into something full of character.

Setting Up and Making It Feel Like Home

Arriving early is part of the ritual. I take time to arrange everything so that people can explore easily, almost like stepping into a calm corner of a gallery. I make sure favourite pieces are visible, and that the stall feels warm, open and inviting.

It's important to me that people feel welcome to stop, look, and chat.

Conversations That Inspire

The best part of every market is the people - and we all know, people make Glasgow!

Pet owners light up when they talk about their animals, and I love hearing those stories. It is often in these conversations that a new idea for a commission begins. There is something beautiful about turning a simple photograph into a piece of art that carries so much love.

I also enjoy connecting with other artists. We share small business tips, celebrate each other’s work, and remind ourselves why we chose this creative path.

Creating Live

When the day slows down, I pick up my pencils and begin to draw. People often stop to watch.

Seeing the portrait take shape in real time gives them a glimpse into the care that goes into each piece. It is quiet and grounding, a moment that always brings me back to why I love what I do.

A Day to Reflect

No two market days are ever the same. Some are busy and buzzing, others are gentle and calm. Either way, they are always filled with real conversations, kind faces and moments that remind me why this work matters.

Even though I am slowly shifting my focus online, markets will always hold a place in my story. They have given me the chance to meet so many lovely people and to see my work find its way into homes across Glasgow.

If you would like to see my art in person or talk about commissioning a portrait of your own pet, you can always find a list of where my work is stocked or where I will be popping up next on my website.

A Thoughtful Gift for the Season

As Christmas approaches, there is something truly special about giving a gift that feels personal. A hand drawn portrait or limited edition print makes a unique present for someone who adores their pet, or a beautiful addition to your own home.

You can explore available artwork, commission a bespoke piece, or join my mailing list to hear about new releases first at hannahkellydraws.com