Welcome to my latest blog post and I know it’s been a while since I have written one. I have been a little busy! I have been developing a new style of artwork which I have wanted to do for a very long time… and finally here it is! I’m thrilled to share my Classic Sketches of Dogs Cats and Horses. After quietly working away behind the scenes over the last few months in my spare time, I’ve finally opened up a new option for my clients looking for something a little more spontaneous.
My detailed drawings are quite in depth. They take a very long time, they are detailed and realistic, some quite photographic. So I felt the need to try something a little different and something that’s not really available online. Or not that I can find. So hopefully a unique selling point for me!
What Are Classic Sketches?
These new sketches are hand drawn in pencil on the most beautiful fine art paper, Stonehenge 250gsm smooth vellum surface. This paper is very different to the Italian Fabriano Hot Pressed paper I use, it has a bit more tooth and so is perfect for fluid lines and some texture showing through. Using only one or two pencil grades allows me to create a drawing that is uniform in tone and expressive, still retaining my style of drawing.
I have decided to keep things simple. These sketches are designed for a head and chest only to focus on your pet. So single heads on one piece of paper, no collars, coats, hats, or tack. They focus on capturing your pet’s character with a more free flowing pencil line. No backgrounds, no extra fuss, just your pet front and centre. The aim is to identify and achieve a likeness rapidly and sensitively using a freer classic sketch style. I have always loved the preliminary sketches the old masters would create prior to beginning the full scale oil painting.
How Much Are The Classic Sketches
My classic sketches take much less time, so this is reflected in the price. You can take a look at all of my prices and sizes on my website Prices and Info page, not just for the Classic Sketches but for my Detailed Drawings and my Detailed Montage Drawings too. My Classic Sketches are available in three sizes, prices starting at £249. If one might suit you, feel free to get in touch anytime.
A Peek Into the Studio
This new range came about naturally. I’ve always loved sketching – there’s something so relaxing and joyful about working with pencil in a looser style. These sketches let me return to those roots, focusing on gesture and expression. I draw each one on my usual studio desk and I’ve added a behind the scenes photo of my sketch in my drawing board.
I personally package each sketch in one of my lovely archival boxes. Take a look at the photo to see my drawing packed mid way! Clients can order my sketches in the very same way as they do commissioning me for my detailed drawings.
- Send me your favourite photo, you can contact me via my website – Contact Melanie.
- I’ll help you choose the best layout and composition.
- Place a deposit, read about my commissions info and prices on my website – Commissions Info
- Once confirmed, I’ll start drawing and keep you posted along the way.
A Little Business Update from the Studio
I realised recently that I haven’t written a personal blog post in quite some time. The months have flown! I haven’t caught up with you properly about the behind the scenes bits — so here we are!
Over the past few months, I’ve spent a lot of time quietly working through our blog. I’ve been going over all of the older posts, making sure the images are displaying properly, categorising everything, and writing up posts featuring artwork we have painted and drawn over the last five years.
As many of our regular readers know, the Covid years weren’t easy for us, especially with Nicholas being so unwell. Although he still has lingering symptoms, I’ve found myself with a little more passion to focus on making the blog the best it can be. So, I’ve freshened things up:
- Added new images to the tops of posts
- Updated categories and tags
- Introduced a new contact section in the footer
- Chosen softer colours across the entire blog
- Tidied the layout to make it easier to navigate
It’s now feeling much more cohesive and hopefully a more enjoyable place to spend time for visitors old and new.
Why the Blog Matters to Me
We are not on social media anymore. No matter how many times the carrot is dangled, I just don’t want to go back. Instead, I decided to put that time and energy into something we actually own — this blog. It’s ours. I can design it how I want. No algorithms, no shadowbans and no corporate overlords deciding what I can and can’t post. Just our work, our story and our visitors. In one peaceful little corner of the web. And if you are reading this… I’m glad that you are here!
A Safe Space Without the Clutter
With all the security worries and hacker news flying about, I’m determined to make our blog a safe space for anyone visiting. No pop-ups, no blinking banners and absolutely no adverts. I’m tired of being shouted at by ads every time I try to read something. I don’t want that here!
Here it’s also just about the art, the world of pet portraits and our little life here in rural Wales. That’s how I like it and I hope you do too.
Classic Sketches of Dogs Cats and Horses
And finally there will be a personal blog post coming soon. We have so much to tell you! So I hope that you have enjoyed reading about my Classic Sketches of Dogs Cats and Horses. Plus I will have another blog post soon… all about my latest commissions of classic sketches! Stay tuned!!
Contact Us!
If you have a question or you would like to commission a portrait, contact us at any time. Don’t forget to subscribe to our YouTube Channel too.