Meet Aimee :)

Posted on by Zara Toms
I finished this A3 graphite drawing of Aimee the lovely Beagle last week. Sadly, Aimee is no longer with us and her family miss her dearly. The portrait means an awful lot to the her mum. She sent me a message saying she can't wait for the portrait to be home so that Aimee is back home where she should be. That really touched me and every hour I spend on them makes it so worth while knowing they ...
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SOLD!

Posted on by Zara Toms
My original Barn Owl on black paper drawing was sent off to its new home last week. I can't wait to see a photo of it framed and on the wall in its new home. My frog on black paper is now the only black paper original I have left available. Please don't hesitate to email me if you would like to give it a home. Original for sale£150 + £15 UK P&P8″ x 10″ (10″ x 12″ mounted)Original colo...
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Designing layouts

Posted on by Zara Toms
I have wanted to do a blog post sharing how I come up with my layouts for my commissions. I use the same process and software when designing my wildlife layouts. But when choosing background colours for my pastel portraits the below examples give the clients a rough idea of which they prefer. I recently posted Monty's finished portrait here and on my social media pages. The background chosen ...
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Monty’s Video

Posted on by Zara Toms
Here is the full time lapse video of Monty's pastel drawing :). Many hours compressed into a couple of minutes. Lots of layers as you can see and then a very light hand where the pastel pencils barely touch the paper to create the more finer, subtle details. https://youtu.be/CfVh2qO5ybI For Monty's portrait a subtle light blue, grey background was chosen. It enhances those similar shades...
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Meet Monty :)

Posted on by Zara Toms
I can now share with you this recent portrait of Monty. He was an absolute joy to draw. As you know I love drawing black subjects and the pastels were so lovely to work with. We went for a blue background. Light shades with a very subtle off grey round the corners. It really drew you eye even more to those lovely eyes of his. A4( 8.3" x 11.7") Pastel drawing
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*SALE* Original Wolf

Posted on by Zara Toms
I had a chance over the weekend to frame a few of my originals :). This piece is up for sale at a reduced price. I have some wildlife pieces planned this year and need to make some room :). Please don't hesitate to contact me if you would like to have this original piece in your home. This is an original pastel drawing (details can be found here 'Wolf in Pastels'*Frame not included. Artwork i...
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Harper full time lapse

Posted on by Zara Toms
Here is the full time lapse video of the recent pastel portrait of Harper the stunning Fox Red Labrador. https://youtu.be/Y3cna7Q8-Qk I have lots of exciting things planned for this year. Lots of wildlife pieces and I am so looking forward to the future pastel portraits I have been commissioned to do. I am loving this new medium, its so versatile and creates stunning effects. I got my...
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Meet Henry!

Posted on by Zara Toms
I can now share with you a recent pet portrait I completed :D. A very sweet Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. This breed has such a cute expression and those big eyes are so expressive. My nan used to have two of these herself many many years ago but sadly they are not blessed with the best health despite their superb temperament and perfect family companions. A4 (8.3" x 11.7") Pastel drawing ...
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Harper is finished

Posted on by Zara Toms
Harper is finished and has been dropped off at my framers to be mounted :). I have LOVED working on her portrait. This is my first attempt in pastels capturing a dog of her stunning colour. I had to use so many pencil colours and many many layers to achieve her rich, vibrant fur colour. She really is stunning. Fox red Labradors are very striking and that colour is what makes them a popular choice...
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