Remember every detail

how it works, step by step…

  • artist holding up a pastel drawing of a wolf, stood next to an easel with a large scale grey wolf painting on it

    Step 1 - contact

    Please fill in the booking form below to enquire about commissioning a wild animal artwork.

    Alternatively you can message me on social media @jenniferstarnesart or email jenniferstarnesart@gmail.com

    I will get back to you using your preferred method of contact to chat about how I can help you.

  • highly realistic painting of a pair of macaque monkeys, placed on an easel

    Step 2 - choose size

    I offer a variety of sizes from small - XXL to suit your budget and style.

    If you are unsure what size you would like I can advise you based on the chosen animal, number of subjects and intended hanging place. During our initial chat I will provide you with a personalised price quote. Explore my wildlife gallery for inspiration.

  • artist holds a paintbrush, painting a large scale canvas with a realistic portrait of a hyena on it

    Step 3 - photos

    I source my animal reference images by collaborating with talented wildlife photographers.

    I will provide you with a selection of photo options of the desired animal. Together we will then choose the perfect reference photo to inspire the artwork. I will send you an initial sketch/mock up so you know what the composition will look like.

  • artist holds paintbrush up to a highly realistic painting of a chimp

    Step 4 - book in

    I require a 50% deposit to book your commission slot in my diary. The remaining balance needs to be paid before I begin the portrait. Alternatively, you can pay in full. I accept payment by bank transfer and Paypal.

    Contact me to find out my current lead-time. This varies depending on my waitlist and the requested portrait size.

    Please read my terms & conditions prior to commissioning an artwork.

  • four progress stages of a highly realistic lion painting

    Step 5 - creation

    I send updates throughout the creation process so you’re involved in every step of the unique process.

    If you prefer that I don’t post updates across my social media channels, for example if it is a gift, please let me know and I will keep it a secret until after it is gifted.

    Connect with me on social media so we can have thoughtful conversations. I share exciting behind the scenes that you won’t want to miss.

  • artist holds a roll of paper tape with a polar bear design on it

    Step 6 - shipping

    Once I have completed the artwork I will send you a watermarked photo of your portrait for your approval.

    During this stage you can suggest any small tweaks or revisions.

    Following your 100% satisfaction, I will ship the artwork to you. I’m conscious of the materials I use within my packaging. Please see below to find out what you can expect when you receive an original wildlife artwork.

Pricing

The below prices in Great British Pounds provide a guideline for my standard sized acrylic painting commissions. Prices will vary depending on the number of subjects, background and complexity. I have additional sizing and style options available so please get in touch for a tailored quote.

Large - starting from £700
A2 (16.5’ x 23.4”)

Extra large - starting from £1500
A1 (23.4’’ x 33.1’’)

XX large - starting from £3000
A0 (33.1’’ x 46.8”)

Client spotlight - behind the scenes of this wildlife commission

artist holds up a highly realistic large scale painting of a white tiger

Michelle fromUK. (August 2023).

“My mother-in-law recently commissioned a painting for her living room and Jennifer was a dream to deal with. She matched the background to part of the rug she ordered and sent regular photos of the progress of the painting and completed it in the time originally stated. The picture is fantastic and we couldn’t be more pleased, the finishing touch to a room makeover.
Highly recommended!”

  • multi-coloured striped rug sample next to paint swatches

    Consultation

    My client saw my lion painting and requested a painting of a tiger in a similar realistic style and of the same size (A2).

    She sent me a rug sample so that I could choose tigers with colour schemes that would compliment her soon to be decorated living room.

    I sourced multiple reference images of tigers and presented them to my client, she chose her favourite one of a stunning white tiger.

  • painting a blue background on a canvas

    Custom colour palette

    I use the highest quality linen canvases for my wildlife paintings. Linen is considered more durable than standard cotton, so it ensures long lasting artwork. Linen also has a finer texture due to its ‘natural’ weave, aiding a highly detailed finish.

    I experimented with many variations of blue colour, finding a complimentary shade to the client’s rug sample. Painting several base layers to form a solid striking background.

  • artist poses next to a canvas on an easel with a white tiger sketch on it

    Sketch composition mock up

    I begin with the undercoat to establish the basic composition of the painting.

    I send a photo of the initial sketch to ensure the client knows what to expect the painting to look like. I welcome suggestions to ensure I bring the client’s vision to life!

    I use acrylic paint for my paintings and coloured pencil / pastel for my drawings.

  • artist paints a highly realistic painting of a white tiger

    Creation

    Due to the highly detailed nature of my paintings each takes many, many hours to hand craft.

    I will let you know an approximate timeline, including when I will be beginning the portrait and an approximate delivery time.

    During the creation process I will send you regular photo updates so that you can watch the artwork come to life. My clients often commend my communication and ability to involve them in the unique process of commissioning artwork.

  • white tiger painting on a table in a framers shop next to several coloured frame options

    Framing options

    My client requested I framed the portrait. I am more than happy to offer this service, working alongside a professional framer I chose a complimentary floating frame.

    A floating frame is a modern alternative to a traditional frame, allowing the painting to have an open front, whilst adding a professional finish that also protects the canvas edges.

    It is fine if you choose not to frame the painting as it will be fitted with a wire on the back, ready to hang on the wall.

  • white tiger painting positioned above the fireplace in client's home

    Delivery

    After my client approved the painting I delivered it straight to her.

    As it was already framed, it could be hung straight away on the wall - pride of place, above the fireplace. It was lovely to see how it bought the room together. She was very happy with the painting as you can see from the review above. If you are interested in commissioning an artwork please get in touch.

Backed by my 100% satisfaction guarantee

Client satisfaction is very important to me. After I have completed your artwork I will send you a photo for you to approve. I am happy to make any revisions needed until you are 100% happy with the portrait. This level of care is reflected in my consistent 5* star reviews, see what my clients have to say below.