Dogs, like their owners, are all different. Some prefer to be remembered as they actually appear. Every now and then, however, I meet a dog who wants something a little different. These dogs see themselves dressed up—often wearing funny hats. If you have one of these creative types, I have just the solution. Consider a painting of a painting. I will carefully reproduce a masterpiece scaled to your dog's proportions. Visit my portrait gallery for a few examples of such paintings. So, let's get going! Pick up the phone and call me at 651.454.5805. You won't believe how happy you'll make that special someone—you!
My name is Barbara Greving, and I am a classically trained portrait painter who loves dogs. Imagine my surprise when I learned how unhappy and neglected my own dogs were feeling. After years of watching them play and sleep, it finally hit me, it's no accident they look so cute—they're posing. That's why I created Classic Tails. A place where you and your dog can go to have that one-of-a-kind portrait created. And it's the real deal. No digital photos or computer images. My dog portraits are painted one at a time in oil or lovingly drawn in charcoal. Whimsical, classical and just plain fun—every piece will become a family heirloom your descendants will be fighting over.
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Testimonials

"I really like to give unique gifts to loved ones capturing the things that they truly love the most. So, on my husband's birthday, I couldn't resist the "unique" idea of a portrait of our dog, Sambo, as he is truly my husband's best friend. The fact that actual pictures were taken to capture Sambo's personality really showed in the painting. Barbara captured his whole personality! My husband cried when he opened the package and saw what he had received. To know that this piece of artwork will treasure so many memories of our special pet even after he is gone is very special. It also makes the best conversational piece. The cat is next!!!" — Cari Frisk, Fargo, ND

"Even though our Springer, Ben, is gone now, your fabulous portrait of him makes us smile every day when we come home… just as he did. We love it!" — Mary Kay and Bruce Lick, Sunfish Lake, MN

"It is said that eyes are the windows to the soul. Stryker's eyes, as captured by Barb's expertise, virtually transcend the canvas and enable the viewer to believe he might actually "come" if called. Thank you, Barb, for ensuring that Stryker's soul will remain with us forever." — Nick & Kathy Klein, Mendota Heights, MN

"I just want to add my comments that Barb was a joy to work with.  You can see by the portraits that as an artist, she is an absolute pro, but her priority in having a satisfied customer was just as important to her.  She came to our home for a “photo shoot” so that she could get to know Quincy and his personality, created a draft in charcoal to make sure she captured exactly the look I wanted, and as a result was able to capture his personality perfectly.  Everyone who sees Quincy’s portrait comments on his eyes and “facial expression” – so him.  I would highly recommend Barb to anyone who wants to give the perfect gift to a dog lover, or just to immortalize their dog in a beautiful way."  Peg Reihm

 

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