Hi, I’m Jonny — a UK pet portrait artist.

Pet portrait artist drawing a custom dog portrait in coloured pencil

I’m Jonny, a UK-based artist creating hand-drawn pet portraits that celebrate the personality, presence, and one-of-a-kind character of the animals we love.

My work isn’t about producing a perfect photographic copy — it’s about capturing what feels familiar: an expression, a look, a little moment that instantly reminds you of them.

Portraits that feel like them

Framed custom pet portrait displayed in modern home interior

Our pets become part of our everyday lives — companions, routines, comfort, family.

They have quirks, habits, and expressions that feel instantly recognisable, and that’s what my portraits are centred on.

Each drawing begins with a bond: a relationship, a memory, a presence. My aim is always to create artwork that feels honest and lasting — something you can live with, gift, and treasure.

A one-of-a-kind artwork

Close-up of pet drawing in progress showing pencil detail

When you commission a portrait, you’re not ordering a print or a digital illustration — you’re commissioning an original piece of artwork made specifically for you.

Each piece of pet art is created as a one-off, with care given to every stage, from the first pencil marks to the final details.

I started this because so many pet portraits felt overly traditional.

My work is clean, contemporary, and focused on personality — artwork that fits a modern home and feels instantly recognisable.

A bit more about me

I work from my studio in the UK and have always been drawn to animals and drawing.

Living with my own pets has shaped the way I observe them — how much expression can live in a small tilt of the head, or how familiar a look can feel.

The process is intentionally slow and hands-on, allowing time for the details that give a portrait life.

I share my home with Badger, a long-haired black Chihuahua with an impressive amount of personality packed into a very small frame — and a daily reminder of why these portraits matter.

Pet portrait artist Jonny Atkinson and his chihuahua dog Badger

The reactions matter most

Customer photo of dog portrait commission next to the dog

At the end of the process, the most important moment is when someone first sees their portrait.

The goal is always the same: something recognisable, personal and expressive — artwork that genuinely feels like their pet.

That reaction is what matters most.

Every portrait is drawn by hand from your photo using coloured pencil and wax crayon, focusing on personality, structure and expression rather than rigid photorealism.

Is this style right for you?

Custom pet portrait gift framed and wrapped for present

My portraits are a lovely fit if you:

• value expression and warmth over strict realism

• want something personal and meaningful

• are looking for artwork that feels familiar and full of character

If you’re looking for an ultra-photographic replica, this style may not be the right match — and that’s completely fine.

Commissions

I currently accept commissions for dog portraits, cat portraits, and other beloved companions.

If you’re considering a portrait, or would simply like to ask a question before ordering, you’re always welcome to get in touch.