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?

  • Animal 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 Pw eager beaver circle Petworks Best of 2024

Customer Reviews

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

- Gary D

How do you serve precious pets?

  • Animal 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

🎨 About Marla Rapley


Marla is a professional animal portrait artist serving Greenville, SC, Greenville County, and nearby areas like Spartanburg, Anderson, Greer, Simpsonville, Easley, Clemson, Laurens, Gaffney, Seneca, Greenwood. Specializing in capturing the personality, expressions, and unique traits of dogs and cats, Marla creates one-of-a-kind portraits that become cherished keepsakes for pet owners.


💻 Virtual Consultations Anywhere:


Even if you live outside Greenville, Greenville County, or Spartanburg, Anderson, Greer, Simpsonville, Easley, Clemson, Laurens, Gaffney, Seneca, Greenwood, you can schedule a virtual consultation to discuss your pet’s personality, preferred style, and favorite poses. This ensures a personalized portrait experience from the comfort of your home.


🌟 Expert Insight:


“Every pet has a story to tell. Our goal, here at PetWorks, is to bring that story to life through art. Capturing their quirks, expressions, and essence is what makes each portrait special.” - Kevin Kinyon, Co-Founder, PetWorks.


🐾 Why Choose Marla Rapley:


Realistic, stylized, or playful portraits tailored to your pet

Works with both dogs and cats

Focus on emotional connection and personality, not just appearance

Digital and physical formats available


💡 Tips for a Great Animal Portrait:


Share multiple photos highlighting your pet’s expressions and personality

Point out favorite behaviors or quirks for the artist to capture

Participate in the virtual consultation to guide the portrait process


❤️ Celebrate Your Pet Today


Commission a one-of-a-kind animal portrait from Marla Rapley in Greenville, SC, or nearby areas like Spartanburg, Anderson, Greer, Simpsonville, Easley, Clemson, Laurens, Gaffney, Seneca, Greenwood, and create a lasting tribute that reflects your pet’s personality, charm, and spirit 🐾🖼️.