Welcome to the first instalment of my monthly diary updates. I hope to share what goes on in the studio of a pet portrait artist, as well as a human in my day to day life. I'll include a round up of my favourite pieces each month and, of course, some pupdates from Pumpkin herself!
So, I am here to catch you up on what has been happening over the last month at Mairi Makes HQ (which may be seeing a bit of a change quite soon...)
Pet Portraits & Animal Artwork from July
I was able to work on some new original pieces as well as a variety of colourful pet portraits this month. Dogs have definitely been the most popular in July however, from boxers to irish wolfhounds - so much variety to keep challenging me and making my days more interesting!
My new piece 'Elinor' (named after Merida's mum in brave) has recently been added to my store as both A3 and A4 prints. I've also been doing some colourful butterfly studies, inspired by the lovely weather we have been having.
I'm Moving... Again...
Moving? Again? Well, when we bought this house in early 2021 life was a little different to what it is now - being that we didn’t have a short-legged, long-backed pup that shouldn’t really be running up and down the stairs.
Since we got Pumpkin I’ve been working downstairs in the ‘spare room’ for my day job and ended up bringing my portraits downstairs to paint in the mornings and evenings anyway.
So, I thought I might as well move down there for good and actually free up a room for when we have guests (or somewhere to put all the boxes that have been surrounding me for the last year at least).
It may take a while for me to pluck up the courage - and find the time - to cover up my mural wall. But, the more exciting side is that I have a new set of walls to decorate! I'll be sure to give updates on social as I go, but watch out for next months update as I might be able to show you around!
Pupdates from Pumpkin
Pumpkin has very much been enjoying some more fun and interesting walks this summer. We have been to the beach a lot and many ice cream shops - some of which even have dog friendly versions for her to try.
Last weekend we went to Glamis Horse Trials where there was a fun dog show, and she even ended up taking home a little 3rd place rosette for 'Prettiest Female'.
I’ve also been painting Pumpkin this month as a surprise for my parents and my boyfriend - and I may even release prints of them too so keep an eye out for that. But me being me couldn’t keep the surprise a secret long (plus my mum is on my mailing list where I am also sending this update).
I’m planning to get these two professionally framed so keep an eye out on my socials as I take you along for that too!
Website Updates
In order to streamline your customer journey, I’ve decided to combine my website and Shopify store, which then links to Etsy for international customers. It's something I have been planning to do for a while, and I am so excited to show you the website's new look!
Spooky Season is Upon Us
Unless you haven't been opening your emails and don't follow me on social media, you will know that I have just released my Halloween Collection for 2022. The Ghost Cat and Pumpkin Dog are back as their own individual stickers and art prints, and I have introduced two new adorable designs to the gang - the Purple Bat and Pumpkin Cat!
And that's all for July! Make sure you follow me @MairiMakes on social for the latest pet portraits I'm working on any any new art print releases.