This piece makes me smile every time I look at it. It's just so happy and playful, I think a perfect fit for Thomas. When they first commissioned this piece, his parents sent me a list of his characteristics when they commissioned this piece. His list included - friendly, Loving, Caring, Active, Climber, Clever, Musical (he loves to sing and makes up/changes words to songs), Chatterbox, Excitable, Amazing memory, Sensitive, Observant, Strong willed, determined. Animal - OTTER.

Isn't this a wonderful way to help shape a portrait? I think it's something I'll build into the planning all future commissions because it offered extra layers of connection for me to the subject if haven't been able to meet them in person.

After seeing the final pieces, they asked for one final finishing touch - for these qualities to be inscribed on the back of each painting. I thought this was such a lovely idea!

'Thomas and Annabelle's spirit animal illustrations arrived in the post yesterday!!!! My heart burst with happiness when I opened the package. So, so precious and beautiful 😊 '

-Pippa