As you know, I am always amazed by artists. And affordable, tiny, original works are some of my favorites!
We have a sweet little artist gallery here in Old Town Auburn. Occasionally, I wander in and stroll around. One of my favorite artists is Ann Ranlett. She paints on scratchboard. For example, here is a Christmas Ornament I bought from her and a portrait of some type of brilliant bird – which I keep on my desk:
I love these! I have them on my desk and they just make me smile. Tiny, original drawings, my fav!
I COMMISSIONED A PORTRAIT OF MO.
I was bored while in bed, recuperating from my hip replacement, and I decided to see if Ann did commissions. (I had looked on the back of the two pieces I owned, and it seemed like she would take commissions because she had all of her contact information.) So I emailed her.
I emailed her…
THIS WAS THE PHOTO I SENT:
In the email, I sent a few photos. I figured that she might need angles or different perspectives than I would understand. And, what I think is “cute” might not make sense to an artist. Anyway, she picked this one.
AFTER A FEW DAYS, I RECEIVED A PROGRESS REPORT!
After a few days, Ann checked in with me. She wanted to make sure that she was on the right track. Here is what she sent. I was very encouraged.
This was her first progress report.
A WEEK LATER, I RECEIVED THIS PROGRESS REPORT:
Wow! I was thrilled… it looks just like him, she totally captured his expression!
Wow! This looks just like him!
AND HERE IS THE FINAL. PERFECTION. I LOVE IT LOVE IT LOVE IT!
My perfect Mini Mo scratchboard drawing. I LOVE it!
It looks just like him! She totally captured his expression.
Framed. She sent it to me, framed.
Comparison of final with the original photo. I think she totally captured the essence of Mo!
NOW I AM RUMMAGING THROUGH A MOUNTAIN OF MY PET PHOTOS!
This fabulous, original rendition of Mo was UNDER $100. So, I can actually afford to treat myself every few months or so. I have photos lined up!
I’m sure Ann would be thrilled to hear from anyone who would like a scratchboard of your animal. If you do it, PLEASE send me the end result and your story! I’d love to hear!
Ann Ranlett, MSA, SAA, Nature Illustrations & Pet Portraits
ScratchboardArtByAnn.com
www.annran.com/shop
(She doesn’t know I wrote about her…)
