Soulful Pet Portraits - Custom Watercolor Paintings - Nationwide
Painting pets for the last six years has led me to meet many amazing people and hear about the unique relationships pets have with their humans. Each pet relationship is unique, and no two pet relationships are the same. Through my paintings, I aim to honor all animals, their families, and the stories they tell.
Growing up with an art teacher as a father, I was encouraged to create at a young age. By studying drawing and painting in high school and majoring in Fine Arts at California State University Long Beach where I was given the opportunity to study abroad in Florence, Italy, I studied the characteristics of the face and the many expressions of the eyes. What intrigued me about the human face in figural paintings still captivates me when I’m painting animals-each face is unique.
The moment I figured out how to use my art to impact others in a positive way was in February 2018 when a friend asked me to paint their canine pet. That was when I realized I could combine my love for animals with my passions for art. I love capturing the soul or aura of each pet by carefully choosing colors that make each animal come to life.
I’ve named my work “Soulful Pet Portraits” because I want to convey the inner essence of each animal I paint. To me, the most crucial aspect in my watercolor paintings is capturing the language our pets speak through their eyes. I believe our pets communicate a message about unconditional love and that’s what I aim to portray in my art.
Pricing Packages
Looking for a gift for a friend or loved one that won't "break the bank"? Although all pet portraits are priceless, sometimes we are looking for a small gift just to say "thinking of you" or just want to gift someone a little happiness. A 4x4 pet portrait is perfect specifically for those kind gestures!
The portrait will be painted on a flat 4x4 Ampersand aquabord. Each portrait is customized for you and will come with an easel for easy display.
Your portrait will be painted directly on aquabord, cradled on 1.5" deep unfinished wood. Aquabord is an archival, acid-free textured clay surface that absorbs watercolors like a fine paper. Aquabord allows colors to retain their purity and vibrancy in a way that even the finest watercolor papers can't match.
Your portrait will come framed and sealed with a clear archival varnish and can be displayed glass-free, keeping colors and textures true to life!
Pricing does not include shipping costs. Local pick-up and delivery options are available!
Your portrait will be painted directly on aquabord, cradled on 1.5" deep unfinished wood. Aquabord is an archival, acid-free textured clay surface that absorbs watercolors like a fine paper. Aquabord allows colors to retain their purity and vibrancy in a way that even the finest watercolor papers can't match.
Your portrait will come framed and sealed with a clear archival varnish and can be displayed glass-free, keeping colors and textures true to life!
Pricing does not include shipping costs. Local pick-up and delivery options are available!
Your portrait will be painted directly on aquabord, cradled on 1.5" deep unfinished wood. Aquabord is an archival, acid-free textured clay surface that absorbs watercolors like a fine paper. Aquabord allows colors to retain their purity and vibrancy in a way that even the finest watercolor papers can't match.
Your portrait will come framed and sealed with a clear archival varnish and can be displayed glass-free, keeping colors and textures true to life!
Pricing does not include shipping costs. Local pick-up and delivery options are available!
Looking for more than one pet in your painting? An additional 25% will be applied per additional pet.
(minimum size for this request is 8x10)
Your portrait will be painted directly on aquabord, cradled on 1.5" deep unfinished wood. Aquabord is an archival, acid-free textured clay surface that absorbs watercolors like a fine paper. Aquabord allows colors to retain their purity and vibrancy in a way that even the finest watercolor papers can't match.
Your portrait will come framed and sealed with a clear archival varnish and can be displayed glass-free, keeping colors and textures true to life!
Pricing does not include shipping costs. Local pick-up and delivery options are available!
Looking for more than one pet in your painting? An additional 25% will be applied per additional pet.
(minimum size for this request is 8x10)
Your portrait will be painted directly on aquabord, cradled on 1.5" deep unfinished wood. Aquabord is an archival, acid-free textured clay surface that absorbs watercolors like a fine paper. Aquabord allows colors to retain their purity and vibrancy in a way that even the finest watercolor papers can't match.
Your portrait will come framed and sealed with a clear archival varnish and can be displayed glass-free, keeping colors and textures true to life!
Pricing does not include shipping costs. Local pick-up and delivery options are available!
Looking for more than one pet in your painting? An additional 25% will be applied per additional pet.
(minimum size for this request is 8x10)
Your portrait will be painted directly on aquabord, cradled on 1.5" deep unfinished wood. Aquabord is an archival, acid-free textured clay surface that absorbs watercolors like a fine paper. Aquabord allows colors to retain their purity and vibrancy in a way that even the finest watercolor papers can't match.
Your portrait will come framed and sealed with a clear archival varnish and can be displayed glass-free, keeping colors and textures true to life!
Pricing does not include shipping costs. Local pick-up and delivery options are available!
Looking for more than one pet in your painting? An additional 25% will be applied per additional pet.
(minimum size for this request is 8x10)
This package reserves the pet portrait service. Once final payment is discussed, the deposit payment will be applied to the final price
How do you serve precious pets?
- Pet Portrait Art
- Custom Pet Portraits
- Animal Portraits
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Alpacas
- Birds
- Cats
- Chickens
- Chinchillas
- Dogs
- Ducks
- Ferrets
- Fish
- Frogs
- Gerbils
- Goats
- Guinea Pigs
- Hamsters
- Hedgehogs
- Horses
- Lizards
- Mice
- Parrots
- Rabbits
- Rats
- Snakes
- Turtles
On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Do you offer mobile services?
- No
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
Anaheim CA, Santa Ana, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove, Fullerton, Orange, Costa Mesa, Mission Viejo, Westminster California. Michelle can paint any pet located in the United States or abroad via the PetWorks platform.
What year did you begin serving pets?
2018
How did you hone your craft?
Based in San Clemente, CA, Michelle is an artist who received her Fine Arts degree from CSULB. During that time, she also received formal art training in Florence, Italy. Michelle loves the fluidity of watercolor and is her media of choice when creating her customized pet portraits.
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
With unconditional love to give, patience, love and kindness are necessary in any pet's life.
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
Michelle has always had a passion for animals and is honored to bring happiness to others through her pet portraits. Creating a life-long memory of a special pet is a meaningful way to celebrate them in life and remember them always.
Distinction
Customer Reviews
Everything went well
- Victor HMichelle presented our boy, Soma, so perfectly. The colors, textures and detail captures his spirit. And the eyes! It’s literally like peering into his soul. We will treasure this masterpiece.
- Barb GWhat a talent! It was so easy to do and Michelle is very responsive. Purchased as a gift for daughter. Loved it so much I bought another for the family. She is great. Highly recommend.
- Will LMichelle created one of the best gifts I’ve ever received. She created a drawing combining both my love for my dog and outer space by entwining them into a piece of art. It’s easy to see her dedication to her work by the personalization and how perfectly she can create an image of a loved pet.
- Chante HWe commissioned Michelle to create a painting of our niece’s chocolate lab for her wedding present and it’s wonderful. She captured Sammy’s soulful eyes and sweet face perfectly and I cannot wait for our niece to see the fabulous painting of her sweet Sammy! I absolutely recommend Michelle to anyone who wants a piece of art to capture their pet forever.
- Georgia SHow do you serve precious pets?
- Pet Portrait Art
- Custom Pet Portraits
- Animal Portraits
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Alpacas
- Birds
- Cats
- Chickens
- Chinchillas
- Dogs
- Ducks
- Ferrets
- Fish
- Frogs
- Gerbils
- Goats
- Guinea Pigs
- Hamsters
- Hedgehogs
- Horses
- Lizards
- Mice
- Parrots
- Rabbits
- Rats
- Snakes
- Turtles
On a scale of snail to elephant, what size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Do you offer mobile services?
- No
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
Anaheim CA, Santa Ana, Irvine, Huntington Beach, Garden Grove, Fullerton, Orange, Costa Mesa, Mission Viejo, Westminster California. Michelle can paint any pet located in the United States or abroad via the PetWorks platform.
What year did you begin serving pets?
2018
How did you hone your craft?
Based in San Clemente, CA, Michelle is an artist who received her Fine Arts degree from CSULB. During that time, she also received formal art training in Florence, Italy. Michelle loves the fluidity of watercolor and is her media of choice when creating her customized pet portraits.
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
With unconditional love to give, patience, love and kindness are necessary in any pet's life.
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
Michelle has always had a passion for animals and is honored to bring happiness to others through her pet portraits. Creating a life-long memory of a special pet is a meaningful way to celebrate them in life and remember them always.
Customer Reviews
Everything went well
- Victor HMichelle presented our boy, Soma, so perfectly. The colors, textures and detail captures his spirit. And the eyes! It’s literally like peering into his soul. We will treasure this masterpiece.
- Barb GWhat a talent! It was so easy to do and Michelle is very responsive. Purchased as a gift for daughter. Loved it so much I bought another for the family. She is great. Highly recommend.
- Will LMichelle created one of the best gifts I’ve ever received. She created a drawing combining both my love for my dog and outer space by entwining them into a piece of art. It’s easy to see her dedication to her work by the personalization and how perfectly she can create an image of a loved pet.
- Chante HWe commissioned Michelle to create a painting of our niece’s chocolate lab for her wedding present and it’s wonderful. She captured Sammy’s soulful eyes and sweet face perfectly and I cannot wait for our niece to see the fabulous painting of her sweet Sammy! I absolutely recommend Michelle to anyone who wants a piece of art to capture their pet forever.
- Georgia S🌟 About Michelle Delanty
Michelle is a professional pet portrait artist based in Orange County, CA, serving clients locally and nationwide through PetWorks. With a passion for capturing the personality, energy, and spirit of animal companions, Michelle creates handcrafted portraits that go far beyond what a photograph can offer — each one a genuine one-of-a-kind work of art, made from your favorite photo and tailored to your exact vision. Michelle is a recognized and top-rated artist on PetWorks, trusted by pet owners across the country to deliver portraits that are cherished for a lifetime.
What to Expect When Working with Michelle
Commissioning a portrait with Michelle is a personal, collaborative experience from start to finish. It begins with a conversation — you'll share your favorite photos of your pet, discuss the style and medium that appeals to you, and talk through any specific ideas or requests you have in mind. Michelle takes the time to understand not just what your pet looks like, but who they are — their character, their quirks, and the qualities that make them yours.
From there, Michelle gets to work. Most artists on PetWorks share progress photos along the way, giving you the opportunity to provide feedback and request adjustments before the portrait is complete. Once you're happy with the result, your finished portrait is shipped directly to you or delivered as a digital file — depending on the medium and your preference. Most portraits are completed within 2–6 weeks, though timelines vary by medium, complexity, and the artist's current schedule. Always confirm turnaround with Michelle before booking, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.
🦔 How to Book Michelle on PetWorks
On Michelle Delanty's listing page, use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' to start a conversation about your commission. Michelle will discuss your vision, answer any questions, and send you a personalized quote through the PetWorks inbox — because the right artist fit matters, and taking a few minutes to correspond before committing is always worth it.
When you're ready, payment is handled securely through PetWorks — Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Affirm, Link, or Klarna. Care Coverage at checkout gives you access to PetWorks' live Concierge team, full refunds if a booking is canceled through no fault of yours, and help resolving any issues along the way — so you can focus on your portrait with complete peace of mind.
Tips for a Great Portrait
Getting the most out of your commission starts with good reference photos. Clear, well-lit shots taken at your pet's eye level work best — natural light is your friend, and flash-heavy photos tend to flatten features and wash out color. Capture a few different expressions and angles if you can: a close-up of the face, a relaxed resting shot, and a playful or characteristic pose gives your artist the most to work with.
Beyond photos, the more you can share about your pet's personality the better. Is your dog goofy and energetic, or calm and dignified? Does your cat have a signature expression? The small details you share help Michelle bring genuine character to the portrait rather than simply reproducing a likeness. If you have a specific style, background, or size in mind, mention it upfront — most artists welcome creative direction and will work with you to bring your vision to life.
As a general guide, pet portrait commissions in the US typically range from $75–$200 for small portraits, $200–$500 for medium, and $500–$1,200 or more for large or multi-pet works. Browse Michelle's pricing packages above for specific rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started with Michelle? Use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' buttons on this page to reach out directly. Michelle will respond through the PetWorks inbox to discuss your vision, review your photos, and provide a personalized quote before you commit to booking.
Can Michelle paint multiple pets in one portrait? Many PetWorks artists offer multi-pet compositions — reach out to Michelle directly to discuss your specific request. Multi-pet portraits may carry additional fees depending on the number of subjects and complexity of the arrangement.
What if my pet has passed away? Memorial portraits are one of the most meaningful commissions you can make. Michelle works entirely from photos, so a passing doesn't prevent a beautiful, lifelike result. Many PetWorks artists have extensive experience with memorial work and approach it with particular care and sensitivity.
Does Michelle ship nationwide? Yes — all orders through PetWorks are handled entirely online. You upload your photos, correspond through the platform, and receive your finished portrait by mail or digital delivery regardless of where you are in the country.
What if I'm not happy with the result? PetWorks' Care Coverage gives you access to the live Concierge team and help resolving any booking issues. Most artists also share progress photos throughout the process so you can provide feedback and request adjustments before the portrait is finalized — the goal is always a result you love.
❤️ Your pet is one of a kind — their portrait should be too.
Reach out to Michelle on PetWorks today, share your favorite photo, and get started on a handcrafted portrait you'll cherish for a lifetime.
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