Pet Portraits Painting - Beginner

Calling all animal lovers! This two week Pet Portraits Painting workshop at Tri Arts Project in Castle Rock offers a meaningful and creative way to celebrate that bond. Open to all levels ages sixteen and up, this class welcomes anyone who wants to create a personal portrait of a beloved animal, whether as a fun celebration or as a unique pet memorial.

Instructor Karen Defrates encourages a relaxed and expressive approach to painting. You will learn how to move beyond realistic color expectations and instead use bold color choices and simple brushwork to capture personality. The focus is on defining light and shadow to create form and presence rather than perfection. By the end of the course, you will complete a vibrant pet portrait that feels personal and lasting. All supplies are included except canvas.

What You Will Learn in This Pet Portrait Painting Workshop

This workshop focuses on approachable techniques that make painting animals feel achievable and rewarding.

Capturing Personality

Learn simple ways to express your pet’s character and spirit through shape, color, and gesture.

Bold Color Choices

Explore using expressive color rather than strict realism to bring energy and emotion into your painting.

Light and Shadow

Practice defining form using value to give your pet portrait depth and dimension.

Creating a Meaningful Keepsake

Finish a one of a kind painting that serves as a personal tribute and lasting reminder of your bond.

What Participants Should Bring

Please bring one 12 inch by 12 inch deep edge canvas, a headshot photo of your pet or animal, and an 8.5" x 11" (enlarged) black and white copy of their animal's headshot.  All other materials are provided.

Continue Exploring Painting at Tri Arts Project

Discover more guided acrylic classes in our Painting Classes at Tri Arts Project.