Custom Pet & Family Portraits in Marshall, Michigan

Debra Whelan Art - Framed Commission Example

Portraits painted by a Marshall artist

Debra Whelan is a digital fine artist who lives and works in Marshall, Michigan. She paints portraits of people and pets by hand, stroke by stroke, with a pressure-sensitive stylus, working from the photos you send. No AI is involved.

If you live in or around Marshall, you’re commissioning a local artist. And wherever you are in the USA, Debra can paint your portrait: photos, progress and feedback all happen by email, and the finished print ships to your door.

A portrait makes a lasting gift for a birthday, an anniversary or the holidays, and a gentle way to remember someone you’ve lost.

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What Debra paints

Pets: dogs, cats and the other animals who are part of the family, painted with their own expression and personality.
People: children, couples and family members, from a favorite photo.
Memorials: a portrait of a person or pet who has passed, to keep their memory close.
Gifts: the finished print can ship straight to the person it’s for.

How it works

Send Debra your idea and your photos, and you’ll talk through your vision for the portrait.
She sends you an agreement describing the portrait and its price.
You pay a non-refundable deposit of half the total.
Debra emails you the painting as it progresses, with two complimentary rounds of minor edits.
You approve the finished painting and pay the balance.
The print ships to you or to the recipient, usually about two weeks after you begin.

Portraits start at $200 for an 8×10. See every size and price.

What clients say

Debra Whelan’s portrait perfectly captures the look and spirit of Portia. It is a beautiful reminder of a beloved pet.

— Sue Kies

Deb was able to perfectly re-create the colors, manner, and personality of the family fur-baby. My friend was overwhelmed with the painting and artistry shown on the canvas.

— Julie Bolen

She took the time to really listen to my vision I was looking for and to learn about my friend. What she created was absolutely stunning.

— Allison Ebner

Portrait questions

Do I need to live near Marshall to commission a portrait?

No. Debra paints portraits for clients anywhere in the USA. She works from the photos you send, shares the painting by email as it develops, and the finished print ships to you or to the person it’s for.

What photos should I send?

Clear, well-lit photos that show the face and true colors. Several angles help Debra capture likeness and personality.

Can I commission a memorial portrait?

Yes. Clients have commissioned memorial portraits of a dear friend and of a beloved family dog, and Debra takes the time to learn about the one you’re remembering.

How much does a portrait cost?

Portraits start at $200 for an 8×10 and go up to $1,250 for a 24×36. The full price list is on the Commissions page.

How long does it take?

About two weeks, depending on the detail involved. The print then ships to you or straight to the recipient; shipping is calculated from the location and current rates.

Still wondering about something? Ask Debra. She usually replies within 24 hours.

Turn a favorite photo into a painting

Send Debra your photos and your idea. You’ll see the painting as it develops, with two rounds of edits included.

Start your commission See prices and process