Pet Portrait Art - Mary Jill Lemieur Designs - Nationwide
Heartwarming pet portraits which capture the spirit, individuality and true likeness of your pets! Give the best gift under the tree this year! My pet portraits are created with watercolor, acrylic, gouache, egg tempera, and stunningly life like hand-painted digital media on paper and canvas. I have so many custom pet portrait options in a wide range of budgets and sizes as you can see from my portfolio photos...please message me for more detailed info or for a custom quote.
Imagine your precious pet's expression, likeness and personality captured in a unique and eye-catching work of art! I create portraits in acrylic, watercolor and hand painted digital media. Working from your ideas and photos, I'll create a detailed, realistic and unique painting which you'll treasure! My mixed media digital painting approach combines the best aspects of traditional painting (oil, pastels or acrylics) and digital freehand painting with a stylus and drawing tablet to achieve an elegant portrait with a very realistic likeness. I spend a great deal of time painting each portrait, working through several different stages to showcase all the precious details of the subject! You will be a part of the creative process as I send photos of the work in progress and have you weigh in on the details!
Please click on the images to see the see how my painting technique shows loads of luscious brush strokes, dimension, careful detail and gorgeous colors! I'm an award winning professionally trained artist with over 35 years of painting and illustration experience. Capturing your pet's personality and likeness is my most important work as an artist! I love to learn about my subjects and honor pets' stories and memory, not just paint an image of them. I would love to create an amazing portrait for you, message me for a quote!
THE PROCESS:
1. I'll help you CHOOSE YOUR MEDIUM, SIZE AND CHOICE OF PAPER OR STRETCHED CANVAS:
Hand painted mixed media digital portraits on museum quality watercolor PAPER (archival giclee) will require mats and glass when framed. The archival canvas portraits are stretched and ready to frame. Larger sized paintings will show off the animal's details more clearly, but I'm an accomplished miniature artist, so even if you choose a small size it will look great! The larger the portrait size you choose, the more detail can be included. 8" x 10" size and smaller are recommended for small pets, or just a head and shoulder view. Consider your pet's size when choosing your size....these are stunning when the pets are depicted life size or larger!
2. CHOOSE YOUR PHOTOS:
My portraits are highly custom paintings, and include custom backgrounds or color schemes. I am used to working with several photos for reference, so I don't need perfect photos. Send some jpeg photos of your pet and tell me about his personality!
3. THE INTERACTIVE PAINTING PROCESS...
Once the order is placed, I’ll create layout sketches which will help you to visualize and choose your final composition. As I paint your pet, I'll include you in the creative process by sending images of the work in progress. Working together this way, we’ll make sure that all the details (composition, personality, eye and fur color, etc.) are perfect! It’s fun to see your portrait come to life!
4. DELIVERING YOUR ART!
When the painting is finished and approved, I’ll carefully package, insure and ship it to you!
ABOUT THE ARTIST: I’m Mary Jill Lemieur, a full-time artist residing in beautiful northern Michigan. I've been doodling, drawing and painting since I was two. As a child I was influenced by the miniatures and animal illustrations of Beatrix Potter, the whimsical art of Paul Klee, Marc Chagall and the wild sixties colors of Peter Max. After earning my BFA (graphic design and multi-disciplinary fine arts) at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan I worked as a graphic designer for more than a decade, before embracing fine art and illustration. Although my work has been exhibited in solo shows, group shows and galleries, I've found my true niche in commissioned work. I've painted hundreds of highly realistic portraits of people, places, animals and beloved pets. These commissions are my most challenging and important work: creating treasured art which has an emotional impact as well as one of beauty.
I have so many custom pet portrait options as you can see from my photos...please message me for more detailed info or for a custom quote.
Pricing Packages
One figure, 11 x 14 Custom hand painted digital oil painting on stretched canvas.
one figure, 16 x 20 inch custom digital pet portrait on stretched canvas
one figure, 8 x 10 watercolor portrait using your photos as reference. Includes a 12" x 14" white archival mat.
Your pet painted inside a snow globe two-dimensional 8" x 10" PAINTING (NOT AN ACTUAL GLASS GLOBE!) with choice of background. Painting is finished with a subtle splatter of iridescent and white snow, and an archival 12" x 14" white mat. These make great Christmas gifts, or gifts for someone who has lost a pet!
Imagine your dogs playing poker! 16" x 20" 5 dog pet portrait on stretched canvas. 100.00 more for each additional dog, message me, also contact me if you want a larger size. Portrait includes their favorite toys, pets, etc. and a custom mini portrait on the back wall of the game room. Book early to ensure your spot in line for Christmas gift giving!
4 " paw print shape with your pet's face in the middle and other details (name, favorite toys, tail, eye closeup, etc.) on each of the toes. Painted in lovely watercolor washes and complete with an 8" x 10" archival white mat, gift card and optional gift wrap. These make great gifts for people who have lost their pets.
Lifelike Pet Portrait (one figure) on a 5 to 6 inch rock. Archival acrylic paint, sealed with a satin varnish. Pet's name/date etc. painted on the back. Large and smaller sizes available.
This listing is for a reservation deposit for your custom portrait order. Once you and and the artist have agreed upon a final price, a 'Custom Booking' listing for the final amount will be created for the balance of the pet portrait art booking fee.
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
- 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
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
• Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled service will receive a full refund.
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
I'm based in Michigan, but have painted pets from almost every state!
What year did you begin serving pets?
1981
How did you hone your craft?
I have always drawn and painted, and have an art degree (graphic design and art). I take workshops to improve my illustration, drawing, painting and digital skills.
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
Pay lots of attention to your pets!
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
In my life I have had pet turtles, sea monkeys, tropical fish, snails, a Siberian Husky named Cinnamin, a tabby named Bridges and currently two fun rescued tuxedo cats named Siui and Quinivere. I have painted thousands of different animals and pets! Each piece of art is unique and captures the spirit, personality and true likeness of each pet. I work on each portrait for hours and add loads of detail. I can work from one photo or dozens of photos, even old or poor quality photos.
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
- 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
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
• Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the scheduled service will receive a full refund.
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
I'm based in Michigan, but have painted pets from almost every state!
What year did you begin serving pets?
1981
How did you hone your craft?
I have always drawn and painted, and have an art degree (graphic design and art). I take workshops to improve my illustration, drawing, painting and digital skills.
What tip would you give pet parents for working with animals that you've learned as a pro?
Pay lots of attention to your pets!
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
In my life I have had pet turtles, sea monkeys, tropical fish, snails, a Siberian Husky named Cinnamin, a tabby named Bridges and currently two fun rescued tuxedo cats named Siui and Quinivere. I have painted thousands of different animals and pets! Each piece of art is unique and captures the spirit, personality and true likeness of each pet. I work on each portrait for hours and add loads of detail. I can work from one photo or dozens of photos, even old or poor quality photos.
🌟 About Mary Jill Lemieur
Mary Jill is a professional pet portrait artist based in Petoskey, MI, serving clients locally and nationwide through PetWorks. With a passion for capturing the personality, energy, and spirit of animal companions, Mary Jill 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. Mary Jill 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 Mary Jill
Commissioning a portrait with Mary Jill 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. Mary Jill 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, Mary Jill 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 Mary Jill before booking, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.
🦔 How to Book Mary Jill on PetWorks
On Mary Jill Lemieur's listing page, use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' to start a conversation about your commission. Mary Jill 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 Mary Jill 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 Mary Jill's pricing packages above for specific rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started with Mary Jill? Use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' buttons on this page to reach out directly. Mary Jill will respond through the PetWorks inbox to discuss your vision, review your photos, and provide a personalized quote before you commit to booking.
Can Mary Jill paint multiple pets in one portrait? Many PetWorks artists offer multi-pet compositions — reach out to Mary Jill 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. Mary Jill 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 Mary Jill 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 Mary Jill on PetWorks today, share your favorite photo, and get started on a handcrafted portrait you'll cherish for a lifetime.