Animal portraits are probably even more challenging than human ones. Others may see ‘Black Labrador’ or ‘Bay Cob’ but a portrait must discover the individual personality underneath to bring the joy of recognition to an owner’s face when the portrait is presented.
After getting the feel for the subject, Cheryl sets to work with the camera. The photo shoot is usually a frenetic affair with the animal calling the shots and the artist grabbing a light effect here and an interesting angle there. No time to work at anything but the intuitive level. Flash photography is never used, partly in consideration of the animal’s sensibilities but mainly because natural light shows the forms better when it comes to the painting.
The owner is called in to review the photographs and make a joint decision on which one to use as a basis for the portrait. From this point on, the feel for the subject comes into play informing the development from photograph to fully realised portrait.
Cheryl has been commissioned to paint everything from racehorses and polo ponies to Burmese cats and Battersea mutts. Ede and Ravenscroft have in their collection a painting of the Royal Navy Polo Team commissioned by HRH The Prince of Wales.
“It is rare to find someone who sees the world and people in it the way that you do, and who is then able to take that image and recreate it on canvas. Cheryl is one such person and has achieved it beautifully in painting Arnold’s portrait. He is a much loved black Labrador with a magnificent spirit. Cheryl has captured his essence and in so doing has given immense pleasure to me and to Arnold’s many friends.”
Clare Calnan
“Cheryl has painted both my horses and has captured their very different
personalities remarkably well. The photo shoots were delightful. Indeed, when sorting through the photos to agree which was the best shot, I discovered expressions that one of my boys had not previously shown me, which added to the experience. The next challenge must be our two cats.”
Susan Anthony
“Molly is a truly inspiring and charismatic Spaniel, and it has been our privilege to have shared in so many of her challenges and adventures. Having chosen Cheryl for previous commissions, we felt completely at ease. However nothing prepared us for the power of Cheryl’s finished work, a work provoking tears and smiles.We are so grateful to you Cheryl for allowing us that memory to live long beyond the confines and limitations of our beloved Mollys’ time as her guardians.”
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