Watercolors by Marla - Animal Portrait Artist - Nationwide

Verified Member since Oct 2019 Verified checkmark

Prices vary depending on matted size and number of animals in the painting. Shipping (insured) typically runs $10-20.

The price shown is for a matted portrait of a single pet that fits into an 11x14 frame. Painted image is roughly 8x10.

I paint from photograph and work closely with you on details to help me capture the essence of your fur (or feather) baby.
Feel free to see more of my work on Instagram @marrap16 or on Facebook @WatercolorMarla

From Photograph to cherished watercolor painting, I look forward to bringing your pet's character to life in watercolor.

Pricing Packages

matted portrait (for an 11x14 frame)
$ 175.00 Per Portrait book

The most common portrait size I do fits into an 11x14 frame. The image is roughly 8x10. For this size (one animal) the fee is $175 plus shipping (which averages $10-25)- I can ship anywhere.

The next most common size fits a 16x20 frame after matting and runs $300 plus shipping for a single pet. Additional pets can be added at additional price.

You are welcome to text photos to my cell 303-596-0973 to discuss best size options and composition. The more photos the better, but an ideal photo is at eye level with the pet, in natural light -and best when the light is coming from the side.

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Custom Pet Portraits
  • Custom Pet Portraits
  • Pet Portrait Art

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?

Anywhere USPS ships

What year did you begin serving pets?

2009

How did you hone your craft?

For over 15 years, I had enjoyed painting landscapes and florals. My sister posted a picture of her Cockapoo in a meadow of daisies, so I took a crack at it. It turned out so well, I painted another of my in-laws dog, then my own, then my neighbor and so on. It seems I had found my niche and since have painted cats, goats, cows, horses and humans too.

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

The best photo resources are at eye level to the pet to make sure the body is in perspective to the head. Lighting is important too. Natural light is best, with no flash (sunlight at a window is great). Having the light source from the side, putting one side of the face in shadow really gives depth and keeps a painting from feeling flat.

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

I love animals, and understand how they are part of the family. What I enjoy most about painting animals is really seeing their personalities shine through in their eyes - and translating that into a painting.

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marla rapley

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BASED IN Greenville, SC

Distinction

Pw without hitch Petworks Best of 2024

Customer Reviews

Marla made a great portrait of our dog, I highly recommend!

- Gary D

She did a wonderful job. Painting turned out great

- Marty C

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Custom Pet Portraits
  • Custom Pet Portraits
  • Pet Portrait Art

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?

Anywhere USPS ships

What year did you begin serving pets?

2009

How did you hone your craft?

For over 15 years, I had enjoyed painting landscapes and florals. My sister posted a picture of her Cockapoo in a meadow of daisies, so I took a crack at it. It turned out so well, I painted another of my in-laws dog, then my own, then my neighbor and so on. It seems I had found my niche and since have painted cats, goats, cows, horses and humans too.

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

The best photo resources are at eye level to the pet to make sure the body is in perspective to the head. Lighting is important too. Natural light is best, with no flash (sunlight at a window is great). Having the light source from the side, putting one side of the face in shadow really gives depth and keeps a painting from feeling flat.

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

I love animals, and understand how they are part of the family. What I enjoy most about painting animals is really seeing their personalities shine through in their eyes - and translating that into a painting.

Customer Reviews

Marla made a great portrait of our dog, I highly recommend!

- Gary D

She did a wonderful job. Painting turned out great

- Marty C

🎨 About Marla Rapley


Marla Rapley offers custom pet portraits ordered entirely online and delivered to your door anywhere in the United States. PetWorks is a nationwide pet care services marketplace where pet parents can browse and order from talented independent artists — in any style, shipped to your door. Whether you're looking for a lifelike oil painting, a vibrant watercolor, a charcoal drawing, or a stylized digital illustration, Marla works with you to create a one-of-a-kind portrait that captures your pet's personality, spirit, and the qualities that make them yours.


Ordering with Marla: What to Expect


Ordering a custom pet portrait with Marla is a personal, collaborative experience from start to finish. It begins online. 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.


Marla 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, Marla gets to work. Most custom 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 shipped directly to your door 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 Marla before ordering, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.


Based in Greenville, SC — Shipping Custom Pet Portraits Nationwide


Marla Rapley is based in Greenville, Greenville County, and accepts custom pet portrait orders from anywhere in the United States and beyond. The entire process happens online — you upload your photos, correspond through PetWorks, and receive your finished portrait by mail or digital delivery, no matter where you are.


🦔 How to Order from Marla on PetWorks


On Marla Rapley's listing page, use 'Book Now' to place your order directly, or 'Get Custom Quote' or 'Send Message' to start a conversation about your portrait. Marla will discuss your vision, preferred style, size, and medium before you commit. Because the right fit matters, and taking a few minutes to correspond before ordering 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 an order 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 Custom Pet Portrait


Getting the most out of your order starts with good reference photos. Clear, well-lit shots taken at your pet's eye level work best. Natural light is your friend — 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 Marla 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 custom pet portrait artists welcome creative direction and will work with you to bring your vision to life.


As a general guide, custom pet portrait orders 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 Marla's pricing packages above for specific rates.


Frequently Asked Questions


How do I order a custom pet portrait on PetWorks?
Browse the Custom Pet Portraits category on PetWorks to explore profiles, portfolios, styles, and pricing from verified artists across the country. You can filter by style and medium to find the right fit — or order directly from Marla using the 'Book Now' or 'Get Custom Quote' button on this page.


What makes ordering from Marla different?
Marla is a verified PetWorks artist with a portfolio you can browse before committing. Every order is handled personally — from the initial photo review to the finished piece — with clear communication and a collaborative process throughout.


How does ordering a custom pet portrait online work?
It's simple: you share your favorite photos of your pet through PetWorks, discuss your vision and preferences with Marla, and receive your finished portrait shipped to your door or as a digital file — no in-person meetings required. Marla accepts orders from anywhere in the United States.


Can Marla include multiple pets in one portrait?
Many custom pet portrait artists on PetWorks offer multi-pet compositions. Reach out to Marla directly to discuss your specific request. Multi-pet portraits may carry additional fees depending on the number of subjects and complexity of the arrangement.


Can I order a custom pet portrait as a memorial?
Yes. Memorial portraits are one of the most meaningful orders a custom pet portrait artist can fulfill. Marla 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.


How long does it take to receive my custom pet portrait?
Most orders are completed within 2–6 weeks, though timelines vary by medium, complexity, and the artist's current schedule. Always confirm turnaround with Marla before ordering, especially if you're working toward a gift deadline.


What if I'm not happy with the result?
PetWorks' Care Coverage gives you access to the live Concierge team and help resolving any order issues. Most custom pet portrait 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.


❤️ Order a custom pet portrait from Marla on PetWorks. Share your favorite photo, choose your style, and get started on a handcrafted portrait you'll cherish for a lifetime.