Catherine Gillespie Watercolor Pet Portraits - Nationwide

Verified Member since Mar 2024 Verified checkmark

I create unique watercolor paintings of your beloved pet. My paintings are realistic, yet loose watercolors. I like to focus on the expression and eyes of the pets I paint. I get so much joy in capturing the character and personality of my little models. Many times I will include a background that helps describe the dog's breed and personality. My paintings are created with love to honor the remarkable connection between a human and their pet. All my paintings are painted on special handmade watercolor paper. Please visit my website at cathygillespieart.com

Pricing Packages

Starting Price
$ 350.00 Per Portrait book

Please send inquires to request a quote by email.

9x12 or 12x12
$ 350.00 Per Animal book

Watercolor of your pet from clear photos that you supply to me. Details about what you would like will be discussed by email. Paintings are done on handmade cold press watercolor paper with an ivory white mat ready for you to frame. Shipping cost will be calculated later according to your state.

14x16
$ 450.00 Per Animal book

Watercolor of your pet from clear photos that you supply to me. Details about what you would like will be discussed by email. Paintings are done on handmade cold press watercolor paper with an ivory white mat ready for you to frame. Shipping cost will be calculated later according to your state.

16x20
$ 550.00 Per Animal book

Watercolor of your pet from clear photos that you supply to me. Details about what you would like will be discussed by email. Paintings are done on handmade cold press watercolor paper with an ivory white mat ready for you to frame. Shipping cost will be calculated later according to your state.

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Pet Portrait Art
  • Custom Pet Portraits
  • Animal Portraits

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Birds
  • Cats
  • Dogs
  • Ducks
  • Fish
  • Horses
  • Rabbits

What year did you begin serving pets?

I began painting mostly pets in 2012

How did you hone your craft?

I have been a watercolor artist for 30 years have been a watercolor artist for 30 years.

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Good clear photos of your pet are very important. When taking photos to send to me, please take the photo at eye level and use natural light preferably from one side to create good light and shadow.

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I paint my pets with love and try to show each animals unique character, expression and personality. I paint realistic, yet loosely.

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catherine gillespie

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BASED IN Edgewater, MD

Distinction

Pw without hitch

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Pet Portrait Art
  • Custom Pet Portraits
  • Animal Portraits

What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?

  • Birds
  • Cats
  • Dogs
  • Ducks
  • Fish
  • Horses
  • Rabbits

What year did you begin serving pets?

I began painting mostly pets in 2012

How did you hone your craft?

I have been a watercolor artist for 30 years have been a watercolor artist for 30 years.

What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?

Good clear photos of your pet are very important. When taking photos to send to me, please take the photo at eye level and use natural light preferably from one side to create good light and shadow.

What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!

I paint my pets with love and try to show each animals unique character, expression and personality. I paint realistic, yet loosely.

🌟 About Catherine Gillespie


Catherine is a professional pet portrait artist based in Edgewater, MD, serving clients locally and nationwide through PetWorks. With a passion for capturing the personality, energy, and spirit of animal companions, Catherine 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. Catherine 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 Catherine


Commissioning a portrait with Catherine 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. Catherine 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, Catherine 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 Catherine before booking, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.


🦔 How to Book Catherine on PetWorks


On Catherine Gillespie's listing page, use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' to start a conversation about your commission. Catherine 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 Catherine 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 Catherine's pricing packages above for specific rates.


Frequently Asked Questions


How do I get started with Catherine? Use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' buttons on this page to reach out directly. Catherine will respond through the PetWorks inbox to discuss your vision, review your photos, and provide a personalized quote before you commit to booking.


Can Catherine paint multiple pets in one portrait? Many PetWorks artists offer multi-pet compositions — reach out to Catherine 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. Catherine 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 Catherine 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 Catherine on PetWorks today, share your favorite photo, and get started on a handcrafted portrait you'll cherish for a lifetime.