The Other Family Member - Pet Portrait Artist - Apex, NC
Susan Cartledge, a passionate pet portrait artist, has been skillfully capturing the unique essence of beloved pets since 2016. Specializing in painting not just common household pets like cats and dogs, but also a wide range of animals including chickens, rabbits, and even reptiles, Susan transforms cherished photos into stunning works of art. She understands that each pet has its own set of unique expressions, and she excels at illustrating those special traits, whether it's the tilt of a head, the perk of an ear, or the sparkle in an eye. Her dedication to detail ensures that each portrait becomes a treasured keepsake for pet owners.
With years of experience and a versatile skill set, Susan is well-versed in portraying various animals, from alpacas and parrots to turtles and frogs. Her commitment to her craft shines through in every piece she creates, offering pet owners a beautiful way to preserve memories of their other family members. Even if your pet is a less common companion like a chinchilla or a hedgehog, Susan is eager to bring their personality to life on canvas. While she primarily works from photographs, her local clients have the unique opportunity to introduce their pets in person, adding a personal touch to the creative process.
For pet owners seeking to immortalize their furry, feathered, or scaly friends, Susan Cartledge offers a perfect blend of artistry and passion. Her portraits are more than just images; they are heartfelt tributes to the pets that bring joy to our lives. Ready to commission a lifelong memory of your beloved pet? Book through Petworks today!
- Mobile Services
Pricing Packages
Standard charge is $2.00 per square inch (example: 10 X 10 canvas = $200) for a single subject. Extra charge for each additional subject on a single canvas ( example, 2 dogs = $75.00; 3 dogs = $150 extra). Will not paint on a size less than 10 X 10 due to inability to represent the subject well in a smaller format. Frame not included. Shipping to be added to final cost.
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
What size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
What year did you begin serving pets?
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
SERVICE AREA: Any distance, including Wake County NC, Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Apex, Morrisville, Sanford, Burlington, Henderson, Goldsboro, North Carolina
Distinction
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
What size animals do you work with?
- 20-39 lbs
- 40-79 lbs
- 80+ lbs
- under 20 lbs
Which part of the country do you serve pets?
What year did you begin serving pets?
What is one thing you want pet parents to know about you? It can be whatev-fur you'd like!
Cat-astrophes happen! What is your cancellation policy?
🌟 Susan Cartledge — Pet Portrait Artist in Apex, NC
Susan is a local pet portrait artist based in Apex, North Carolina, hand-painting and hand-drawing custom pet portraits for pet parents in Wake County and the surrounding area. Unlike Custom Pet Portraits, PetWorks' nationwide ordering category, Pet Portrait Artists connects you directly with artists based near you.
Susan creates handcrafted pet paintings, pet drawings, and pet illustrations 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.
Working with Susan: What to Expect
Hiring a pet portrait artist is a personal, collaborative experience from start to finish. It begins with a conversation. Share your favorite photos of your pet, discuss the style and medium that appeals to you, whether that's a pet painting, pet drawing, or pet illustration, and talk through any specific ideas or requests you have in mind.
Susan 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, Susan gets to work. Most pet portrait 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 delivered by mail or 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 Susan before booking, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.
A Apex, NC Pet Portrait Artist — Serving Wake County and Beyond
Susan serves pet portrait clients in Apex, Wake County, and surrounding areas including Raleigh, Durham, Cary, Chapel Hill, Holly Springs, Morrisville, Fuquay-Varina, Garner, Clayton, Knightdale. Local commissions can include in-person consultation, pickup, or delivery, depending on the artist. Ask Susan what's available. Browse more pet portrait artists near Apex.
🦔 How to Hire Susan on PetWorks
On Susan Cartledge's listing page, use 'Send Message' or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' to start a conversation about your commission. Susan will discuss your vision, answer any questions, and send you a personalized quote through the PetWorks inbox, because the right pet portrait 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.
Tips for a Great Portrait
Getting the most out of your portrait starts with good reference photos. Clear, well-lit shots taken at your pet's eye level work best. Natural light is your friend, since 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 pet portrait 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 Susan 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 pet portrait artists welcome creative direction and will work with you to bring your vision to life.
As a general guide, pet portrait artist 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 Susan's pricing packages above for specific rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find a pet portrait artist near Apex?
Browse the Pet Portrait Artists category on PetWorks to explore local and regional artists near Apex, their portfolios, styles, and pricing. Filter by location, medium, and specialty, or reach out to Susan directly using the 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Book Now' buttons on this page.
What makes Susan different from other pet portrait artists near Apex?
Susan is a verified PetWorks pet portrait artist based in Apex with a portfolio you can browse before committing. Every commission is handled personally, from the initial photo review to the finished piece, with clear communication throughout.
How does hiring a local pet portrait artist work?
Reach out to Susan through PetWorks, share your favorite photos, discuss your vision and preferences, and receive your finished portrait by mail or digital delivery. Some artists also offer in-person consultation or pickup near Apex, ask Susan directly.
Can Susan paint multiple pets in one portrait?
Yes, many pet portrait artists on PetWorks offer multi-pet compositions. Multi-pet portraits may carry additional fees depending on the number of subjects and complexity of the arrangement. Reach out to Susan directly to discuss your specific request.
What if my pet has passed away?
Memorial pet portraits are one of the most meaningful commissions a pet portrait artist can create. Susan works entirely from photos, so a passing doesn't prevent a beautiful, lifelike result.
How long does it take to receive my portrait?
Most commissions are completed within 2–6 weeks, though timelines vary by medium, complexity, and the artist's current schedule. Always confirm turnaround with Susan before booking.
What's the difference between a pet portrait artist and a custom pet portrait order?
The PetWorks Pet Portrait Artist category connects you with local and regional artists you can browse, contact, and hire directly near Apex. Custom Pet Portraits is PetWorks' nationwide ordering category, for pet parents anywhere in the US who want to order online without picking a local artist first.
❤️ Find the right pet portrait artist for your pet near Apex on PetWorks. Reach out to Susan today, share your favorite photo, and get started on a handcrafted portrait you'll cherish for a lifetime.
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