This is Otto, the last of three German Shepherd portraits I've done for the Hughes family.
When I received the photo references from the family I had an immediate question: What's with Otto's ears?
They replied, "That's how they look most the time. He's kind of lazy and a real goofball."
Enough said. I went with the cockeyed ears and, for added drama (and to accentuate the "goofy" factor) I added just a bit of his tongue hanging out.
When they saw the proof I sent, they responded with one word: "Perfect!"
I love it when I can convey a sense of the pet's personality in the portrait. It's not always evident in the photos you send, so make sure to let me know on the order form (there's a spot for just these sort of notes).
Here's Otto.
Love Your Pet Forever
I create custom portraits from your photographs, so you can love your pet forever. I paint all portraits digitally by hand (not photo-filtered) to create beautiful and lasting portraits printed on artist canvas and delivered to your door ready-to-hang.
Find Out More… Click Here!About the Author
Topdog is Steve Merryman, a retired graphic designer, illustrator, and unrepentant asshole. Steve can usually be found working on a portrait commission or some other artwork. Steve fills his days by painting, writing, shootin' guns, cuttin' trees, hiking with his dogs, and savoring a beer or two, all while searching for the perfect cheeseburger. He studiously avoids social media and is occasionally without pants.
Comments 2
I must say I love your style of human kindness, and love of doggies too. For a side note I too wear no pants just a man’s dress shirt style. My kids have said years ‘mom put pants on!’ Me, “ it’s my house go home to yours” lol 😂 Ialso love German Shepherds am getting a new pup soon. I am a writer of children’s books, cookbooks for people and my new book cooking for your pets.
Anyway love the art work and your Gab page, hope I can get the right picture so I can afford a portrait of my dog Angel.
Love your sense of perspective and humor. TTFN ✌🏻 A Girl from Humboldt CA 💚