Crystal was a much loved family pet, and protector, and I was asked to capture these fond memories of her in a painting. The challenge with this painting was to balance that initial perception of a wild-animal, because she looks like a wolf (her breed is a Norwegian Elkhound), with the reality, of her cuddly, gentle loving nature.

I tried to capture the latter in the warmth of her soft brown eyes, and the multiple layers of her thick fur.

This painting is now proudly hanging in the family’s home in North Carolina, USA.

40cm diameter
SOLD

“Fran painted someone very special to me – my childhood dog, Crystal. It’s a beautiful close up of her face. Not only does the painting capture Crystal’s likeness and personality, but also the colours and texture make it quite striking to look at – even if you don’t know Crystal. But for me, when I look at this painting, I’m filled with the joy of childhood memories with my sweet dog.” – Madeleine (October 2023)