Getting Started
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from selecting the perfect reference photos to understanding sizes, materials, and delivery.
Horse Portraits by Pippa Elton
Specialist in Equestrian, Dog & Pet Portraits – Since 1989
How do I Commission a Horse Portrait?
Commissioning a horse portrait is simple:
- Send some photos
- Decide on the composition
- Confirm the size and medium
- Receive your artwork within 2 – 12 weeks
Prices start from £180 and delivery is free, tracked and insured.
Commissioning a Horse Portrait
View the Horse Portrait Gallery
Browsing the collection of hand-painted horse portraits in a range of mediums, is perfect for helping you find inspiration for your own portrait.
Learn About Horse Portraits
The step-by-step guide to commissioning a horse portrait will give you all the information you need about the process – from start to finish.
View Horse Portrait Prices & Lead Times
Viewing the prices and lead times page can help you schedule your horse portrait and find out about special offer prices.
How long does a horse portrait take?
My current waiting list is around 3 months, but urgent commissions can often be completed within 2 weeks. Every portrait is scheduled carefully to ensure exceptional detail and quality. Let me know your deadline, and I’ll do my best to accommodate.
How does the commissioning process work?
Step 1 – Send Your Photos
Submit your favourite reference photos and we’ll discuss composition, size, and medium.
Step 2: Photo to Painting
I’ll begin your painting your portrait. You’ll be kept updated and have the chance to approve details.
Step 3: Payment & Delivery
When complete, you can pay securely online. Your portrait is then carefully packaged and shipped free, with tracked and insured next-day delivery.
Why commission a horse or pet portrait?
A hand-painted portrait is a meaningful way to celebrate a horse, dog, or loved one. Unlike digital photos, each piece is crafted using traditional techniques and the finest archival materials, creating a lasting tribute that can be treasured for generations.
Why is a horse portrait the perfect gift?
A bespoke portrait is a thoughtful, unique, and timeless gift. Unlike mass-produced items, a hand-painted artwork captures not just an image but the personality and emotion of a beloved horse or pet. It’s a personal treasure that will be admired for decades.
What Makes a Perfect Horse Portrait?
Choosing the Photo
Choosing the right photo is the first step in creating a beautiful horse portrait. Lighting, angle, composition and size make all the difference. View my tips on selecting the best references.
Choosing the Medium
Each medium offers a unique look and feel. Different mediums also have different framing requirements. View my expert advice to help you choose the perfect medium for your horse portrait.
Choosing The Size
Selecting the right size ensures your portrait makes an impact. Whether you prefer an intimate study or a commanding statement piece, I have all the information to help you find the best fit.
What materials Will be used in my portrait?
Each piece is painted on professional-grade archival paper or canvas, with lightfast paints or pastels, designed to last for decades without fading. Careful craftsmanship and sustainable packaging ensure your portrait remains beautiful for years to come.
Useful Resources
FAQs
Have Questions?
Find answers to common queries about commissioning a portrait. Click below to learn more.
Gift Cards
A Thoughtful Gesture
Surprise someone special with a portrait gift card. Click below to learn more and buy online today.
Quick Guide
The Perfect Portrait Starts Here
Everything you need to know to begin your commission, all in one place. Click below to learn more.
What occasions are horse portraits ideal for?
- Special Celebrations – Birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, and Christmas gifts that feel truly meaningful.
- Honouring a Cherished Horse – A lasting tribute to a much-loved companion, celebrating their life and memory.
- A Gift of Distinction – Something rare and special, showing care and thoughtfulness beyond ordinary presents.
Prices and Lead Times
This guide covers the full price list and information about current lead times
Do you offer gift cards for portraits?
Yes. Portrait gift cards are available for any amount, allowing the recipient to choose their favourite photo, size, and medium at a time that suits them. They make an ideal present when you’d like to give a portrait experience but let your loved one be part of the commissioning journey.
Are Pippa Elton’s horse portraits highly recommended?
Yes. With over 35 years of experience and hundreds of happy clients, Pippa’s portraits are consistently praised for their lifelike detail and emotional impact.
“Pippa is an incredible artist. The portrait she painted of my wife’s horse is absolutely stunning. I can’t recommend her enough. She’s very talented!!“
Fabian Y
“Cannot recommend Pippa Elton enough, she painted the most amazing portrait for me. The detail is exceptional and so life like, will definitely use her again for future paintings. Thank you so much!“
Isabella M
“What an amazingly talented lady! The pastel portrait of our horse is absolutely stunning and brought tears to our eyes! I would highly recommend Pippa to anyone!!“
Melanie S
Is your portrait packaging eco-friendly?
Yes. All packaging is 100% recyclable, including paper, tape, and protective wrapping. I avoid plastic wherever possible, so your portrait arrives safely while minimising environmental impact.
My studio practice focuses on reducing waste and making environmentally responsible choices.
What Other Art Services do You Offer?
Do you offer private or Studio art classes?
Yes. As a qualified tutor with over 20 years of teaching experience, I offer tuition tailored to all abilities, from complete beginners to advanced masterclasses. Lessons are designed to build skills and confidence at your own pace. Private classes and studio classes are available.
Can I book a portrait painting workshop?
Yes. I run private workshops for art groups and education centres, as well as occasional studio workshops. These sessions offer a deeper exploration of painting and drawing and often focus on traditional techniques, with practical one-to-one guidance and support throughout.
Do you give live art demonstrations?
Yes. I am available to demonstrate painting in a variety of mediums and subjects for art groups in Lincolnshire, South Yorkshire, and surrounding areas. Demonstrations are an engaging way to see techniques in action and ask questions directly.
How are portraits protected during delivery?
Each portrait is securely packed with sturdy, eco-conscious materials. This ensures your artwork is fully protected from moisture, bending, and handling during shipping.
View the Gallery
Visit the gallery to see a sample collection of beautiful horse and equestrian paintings and drawings
Contact Form
The easiest way to get in touch about your horse portrait or to send me your reference photos is to use the contact form below.
You can use the contact form for:
What Happens Next?
Personal Response
Once you’ve submitted your contact form, I’ll personally review your enquiry and respond as soon as possible. Whether you have a question or are ready to commission your portrait, I’m here to help.
From Photo to Painting
I’ll assist you in choosing the perfect photo, composition, and portrait details. We’ll finalise the size, medium, and any specific requests. Once everything is agreed, your portrait will be scheduled.
Payment & Delivery
When your artwork is complete you’ll be offered secure ways to pay online and your portrait will be securely packaged and delivered to you with free tracked, insured shipping.
Do You Paint Dog Portraits?
Yes – Discover My Dog Portraits Today
A bespoke portrait is a beautiful way to honour the dogs who bring so much joy to your life. My dedicated dog portrait website hosts a wealth of information about my artwork, how to commission a portrait and an extensive portrait gallery.
