Murphy

A photo of a black labrador lying across a sofa and looking forward towards the viewer.
Client:
Dylan
Completed On:
23/04/2022
Size:
42 cm W x 29 cm H
Medium:
Graphite,
Pet Breed:
Black Labrador

Finished Pet Portrait Commission – Murphy the Labrador

This portrait was commissioned by Dylan, who asked me to capture his loyal companion, Murphy — a gentle, soulful black Labrador with a quiet strength and unmistakable presence.

Dylan described Murphy as his “partner in crime,” a steadfast friend who shares in life’s simple pleasures. Together they wander along the shoreline, where Murphy, true to his Labrador instincts, proudly retrieves oversized branches from the surf as though each one were a trophy. There is something deeply Australian about that image — salt air, sand underfoot, and a devoted dog with boundless enthusiasm.

For this drawing, Dylan selected a reference photograph that perfectly expressed Murphy’s personality. In it, Murphy is comfortably settled on his favourite spot on the couch — relaxed, confident, and entirely at home. It is often in these quiet, everyday moments that a pet’s true character reveals itself.

My aim with every portrait commission is not simply to reproduce a likeness, but to honour the emotional connection between owner and companion. Murphy’s calm eyes and dignified posture were central to this piece, and I carefully worked to ensure his gentle nature came through in every mark.

If you would like to commission a custom pencil portrait of your own cherished companion, I would be honoured to create something equally personal and enduring.

place your order here!

Fill out the required information in the Order Form below so we can supply you with an accurate costing for you commission!

  • All files must be .JPEG File Format or .PNG File Format
  • 20 MB file size limit per reference image
  • Limit of 5 images per inquiry or order
Commission Order Form
Want to learn more about the artist? Click on the name link below!

Artist: Stuart Ian Currie

FAQs - Pet Portrait Commissions

High-resolution, clear photos are critical. The best photos are taken in natural, bright light (outdoors or near a window) and clearly show the pet’s eyes, facial features, and the colours of their fur or feathers. Photos taken at eye-level are generally preferred.. You’ll use the Dropbox link we send you to upload your images after you place your order. Please use our guidelines for file format (.JPEG or .PNG), size (20MB max), and quantity (6 images max).

Yes, absolutely! We can create a unified portrait of your beloved pets even if they were photographed separately. Please be aware that portraits with multiple subjects or a complex background (like a favorite landscape) will be priced on a higher tier due to the added detail and time required for composition.

Yes! We are delighted to create custom animal portraits of all kinds of animals, including horses, birds, Australian native reptiles and marsupials, or any other beloved family member. The artistic process and pricing structure remain the same as for our dog and cat commissions.

A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your booking and to cover the cost of materials. The final balance is due upon your final approval of the completed artwork, prior to shipping. We offer secure online payment via our website for your convenience.

A custom portrait is a deeply personal and thoughtful gift. We offer gift vouchers and can work with you to complete the project without the recipient’s knowledge. We will send all communications and updates to you so the surprise remains intact.