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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Commissions

Commissioning a portrait of your pet is a unique experience which I believe should be fun and rewarding. We will work together to determine the best pose, the setting, and the finished size of your portrait. I begin with a detailed charcoal drawing which is yours to keep. An oil portrait is done on canvas using a technique developed by Flemish painters centuries ago. This involves an underpainting followed by a series of glazes. This process creates a beautiful work of art featuring your pet as its subject.

Painting Process
charcoalhank.jpg underpaintinghank.jpg finalhank.jpg
Step 1: Charcoal on Paper Step 2: Underpainting on Canvas Step 3: Finished Oil Portrait

Pricing

Charcoal on Paper Price
Head and Shoulder $800 and up*
   
Oil on canvas  
Head and Shoulder $1,500 and up*
Full Body $3,000 and up*


If you live in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, I will visit your home and take my own photograghs. If that is not possible, I am happy to work from as many photograghs as you can provide. The finished portrait will be an original composition as opposed to a copy of your photogragh. This, of course, applies to postumous portraits as well.

You may call or write me for more information and to be placed on my waiting list.

Barbara Greving Studio
651-454-5805
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*Prices will vary depending on the background and any additional figures included in the painting.You will be given an exact price quote before the painting is started. Prices are subject to change.

 

Copyright © 2007 Barbara Greving Studio. All rights reserved.