ENGLISH SETTER PORTRAIT ARTIST
Custom English Setter portraits created by an artist who knows the breed.
ENGLISH SETTERS HAVE BEEN PART OF MY LIFE FOR OVER TWENTY YEARS
I’ve lived with them. Photographed them. Fostered them. Loved them.
As a member of the English Setter Association of America and the author of Setterly Yours, I understand the breed not just as a subject, but as a presence in daily life.
If you are looking for an artist who understands English Setters, you are in the right place.
WHY WORK WITH AN ARTIST WHO KNOWS THE BREED?
English Setters have a distinct look and character.
Their structure, expression, coat, movement, and temperament are specific to the breed. A portrait only feels right when those elements are understood together — not just copied from a photo.
My experience with English Setters extends beyond painting. I’ve written about the breed’s history, health, and structure, including topics such as deafness and bloodline variations. That depth of knowledge informs how I approach every portrait.
I understand the difference between field and bench dogs, how a Setter carries itself when working, and what makes their expression unmistakably theirs. Just as important, I understand what they were bred to do.
That knowledge shapes posing, composition, and background decisions. The setting should support who the dog is — not simply look pretty behind them.
Knowing the breed’s history and character helps ensure the final portrait feels authentic.
english setter commissions
FROM FIELD TO FIRESIDE
Some clients want a traditional portrait that highlights expression and presence.
Others choose a Storyscape that places their Setter in the field, on point, in autumn grass, or in a meaningful landscape connected to how they live.
Each portrait begins digitally so we can refine composition and expression with care. Once approved, it is printed on canvas and finished by hand with acrylic brushwork and texture.
The result is a portrait that feels true to your dog.
WORKING FROM PHOTOGRAPHS
Your English Setter portrait begins with photographs.
Phone snapshots are often enough. I’m used to selecting the best details from multiple images and filling in what’s missing in a way that remains faithful to the dog.
For clients who prefer updated reference images, I occasionally offer consultation sessions at specialty events and shows.
Whether working from existing photos or new ones, the goal is the same: accuracy, balance, and respect for the breed.
ENGLISH SETTER ART, COMMISSIONED NATIONWIDE
Because the design process begins digitally, I work with clients across the country. We refine the portrait together before it becomes a finished canvas.
Common commissions include:
• English Setter field portraits
• English Setter memorial portraits
• Multi-dog Setter groupings
• Breed celebration pieces
• Storyscapes inspired by field, farm, or countryside
I would be honored to create something for you.
WHY ENGLISH SETTERS MATTER TO ME
I rescued a very photogenic English Setter (ACES Carter LeDoux) back in 2005 and documented his every move for years, using him to practice my photography skills. I became a foster parent and photographed my English Setter fosters and then volunteered to photograph other foster dogs. That launched Pouka Art & Photography!
I brought home another English Setter in 2013 (DeCoverly’s Sparrow Georgette), then another in 2014 (RoundRiver’s A. Finch), and most recently another in December of 2022 (Stardom Bottoms Up “Lager”), so they show up frequently in my personal images, Instagram, and Facebook posts. Click here for more information on Deaf English Setters.
IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW LOVES ENGLISH SETTERS,
YOU'VE JUST FOUND THE PERFECT GIFT!
"Setterly Yours: A Photographic Introduction to The English Setter" features over 150 professional photographs and covers a brief history of the breed, the physical characteristics, personalities, grooming requirements, health issues, as well as the availability of the breed in rescue. This book differs from other books about English Setters by providing information on many of the multiple bloodlines as well as illustrating the great physical variety in the breed in beautifully detailed photographs.
"Setterly Yours" was recently awarded a silver medal by the Independent Publishers and will be a beautiful addition to any English Setter lover's library!
