About Dogrose & Catnip
Pet portraits by Lynda J Rugg.
My name is Lynda and I am the Wiltshire born artist behind Dogrose and Catnip. I live near Bath with my husband, our boxer dog and 2 Maine Coone cross rescue cats.
I always enjoyed drawing as a child and loved my art classes at school but never went any further than 'O' levels. As happens with many people, I left school, work and life took over, and I didn't start drawing again for many years!
Then, in 2017, I picked up a colour pencil and started drawing. I practised and gained skills by entering online challenges through magazines and websites. I was drawn by my love of animals to pet portraits and animals although my interests are varied and growing.
I work primarily in Colour Pencil and Pastel although I also use Watercolour and Gouache occasionally.
I was an artistic child which meant I was never bored….always making something. I have never lost that urge to create…that feeling you get when you proudly look down at what you’ve made and say ’I did that', it never goes away!
There was always that childhood fantasy to become an artist and now it’s a reality. Every day I think how fortunate I am to create these hand-painted pet portraits for you which show the love that you felt for that special pet in your lives.
Always having a pet around, it came as no surprise that I would combine my love for animals and art. I count my blessings every day that I am able to do what I love! What can be better than working in your studio with the dog laying at my feet …..the most perfect job in the whole wide world!
Having a dog and 2 cats, and having felt the loss of many through the years, I can totally appreciate what they mean to their owners. When they are gone it is so heart-breaking.....I aim to capture their distinctive character, those little expressions you know, their essence, their very soul, to celebrate them forever and I promise that each pet portrait will be created with love.
I become completely engaged in each portrait……each dog portrait and cat portrait presents a new challenge. Whether it’s that drippy, bubble-blowing jowl and cocked ear on a dog portrait or a pink button nose or fluffy squirrel-like tail on a cat portrait…. sometimes the other way round! (Yes! We have a cat that dribbles!! ) My aim is not only to portray an accurate illustration of your pet but to also capture their essence, character and expression.
It means so much to see the reaction when a hand-painted pet portrait is presented…it makes the hours of painting and care that goes into each custom pet portrait so meaningful!
I am also so grateful to all my animal-loving clients who have made it possible for me to do this for you. I sincerely hope that I have brought you all some moments of happiness, and a keepsake to cherish.
As well as commissions, between the custom pet portraits, I also like to draw wildlife, particularly British wildlife, which can also be commissioned. I am truly impassioned about my art and the beautiful animals I am asked to draw. I am always delighted to be able to create a treasured portrait that will bring you joy for years to come. Prints and certain originals are also available to purchase. If you can’t see what you’re looking for just drop me an email.
I look forward to speaking to you soon!
Take care, Lynda