Donna Mitchell Pastel Pet Portraits - Nationwide
I'm an independent artist, working from my home studio in Carlisle, PA, creating original works of art in the pastel medium. I welcome commissioned portraits of pets and people. All Pet Portraits are created from your good photographs. I prefer to work from pictures you personally have taken of your pet, opposed to studio images. I may make suggestions for taking good photographs when you inquire about a portrait. If you would like a person included in your portrait, please be aware that this changes things dramatically. The individual becomes the main subject and there is a different price chart for people portraits.
The commission process is easy. You choose a preferred size, we discuss your preferences and pricing. Pricing varies according to size (ranging from $375 to $1100 for a single pet, solid background) and your preferences. For instance, if you want a detailed background, there will be an additional charge. Additional dogs in a painting is a discounted additional charge for each. After I receive photos and a deposit from you, drawing and painting will commence. I will be in touch with you throughout the painting process. Major corrections may be made in the beginning. Minor corrections can be made until your final approval is met. Allow up to 8 weeks for completion of pets and up to 3 to 6 months for people included. Painting may be picked up or shipped (an additional cost) upon receipt of final payment. If necessary, I carefully package and wrap the unframed artwork and then ship UPS insured. Your painting will need to be conservation framed by a reputable framer in your locality. If you are local to Carlisle, PA, you have the option to choose your own materials and have the artist do the custom conservation framing for you! Please allow additional time for holiday orders.
I am an Associate Member of the Portrait Society of America and the Pastel Society of America, an Accredited Member of the Maryland Portrait Society, and a Signature Member of the Maryland Pastel Society.
Please contact and book me on Petworks. Thank you.
Pricing Packages
Full color Pet Portrait in the pastel medium on professional sanded paper, created by hand from your good photographs of your pet.
A 10 x 8 size is suitable for only 1 pet.
Satisfaction is guaranteed. Contact Artist via text: 717-258-0459
Full color Pet Portrait in the pastel medium on professional sanded paper, created by hand from your good photographs of your pet.
If you wish to have 2 pets in a 14 x 11” size, add 50% for the additional pet. Single color background. Detailed background will be an additional charge. Framing is not included. Shipping, packaging and sales tax, if applicable, is an additional charge. Your satisfaction is guaranteed.
How do you serve precious pets?
- Pet Portrait Art
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Alpacas
- Birds
- Cats
- Chickens
- Dogs
- Ducks
- Ferrets
- Gerbils
- Goats
- Guinea Pigs
- Hamsters
- Horses
- Parrots
- Rabbits
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?
I live in Central Pennsylvania. My pet portraits may be shipped via UPS to any state in the US.
What year did you begin serving pets?
1991
How did you hone your craft?
Becoming a portrait artist has resulted from years of dedicated painting experience. I have also attended workshop studies with some of the greatest portrait artists in this country.
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
If taking photos for your pets portrait painting, be gentle and make it fun for them. Let them be themselves. Use a treat or toy to get their attention and make their ears perk.
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
I love painting pets and the commission process is smooth. We will communicate and exchange thoughts throughout the painting process. This is your portrait, you know your pet better than I and I need your thoughts and input!
This pet portrait art listing in carlisle, pa has been paused or closed.
How do you serve precious pets?
- Pet Portrait Art
What part of the animal kingdom do you serve?
- Alpacas
- Birds
- Cats
- Chickens
- Dogs
- Ducks
- Ferrets
- Gerbils
- Goats
- Guinea Pigs
- Hamsters
- Horses
- Parrots
- Rabbits
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?
I live in Central Pennsylvania. My pet portraits may be shipped via UPS to any state in the US.
What year did you begin serving pets?
1991
How did you hone your craft?
Becoming a portrait artist has resulted from years of dedicated painting experience. I have also attended workshop studies with some of the greatest portrait artists in this country.
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
If taking photos for your pets portrait painting, be gentle and make it fun for them. Let them be themselves. Use a treat or toy to get their attention and make their ears perk.
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
I love painting pets and the commission process is smooth. We will communicate and exchange thoughts throughout the painting process. This is your portrait, you know your pet better than I and I need your thoughts and input!
🌟 About Donna Mitchell
Donna is a professional pet portrait artist based in Carlisle, PA, serving clients locally and nationwide through PetWorks. With a passion for capturing the personality, energy, and spirit of animal companions, Donna 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. Donna 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 Donna
Commissioning a portrait with Donna 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. Donna 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, Donna 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 Donna before booking, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.
🦔 How to Book Donna on PetWorks
On Donna Mitchell's listing page, use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' to start a conversation about your commission. Donna 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 Donna 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 Donna's pricing packages above for specific rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started with Donna? Use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' buttons on this page to reach out directly. Donna will respond through the PetWorks inbox to discuss your vision, review your photos, and provide a personalized quote before you commit to booking.
Can Donna paint multiple pets in one portrait? Many PetWorks artists offer multi-pet compositions — reach out to Donna 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. Donna 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 Donna 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 Donna on PetWorks today, share your favorite photo, and get started on a handcrafted portrait you'll cherish for a lifetime.
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