Six Galleries, One Studio: A Walk Through Running Duck Studio
November 1, 2026
A quick walk through the six galleries at Running Duck Studio, from black and white ink drawings to functional art you can use every day.
It started with a photograph, a snapshot of Shadow, a Border Collie with eyes full of mischief and loyalty. Shadow had been part of his family for over a decade. A companion through all the big and small moments. My job was to capture who he was, not just what he looked like.
That’s the thing about custom pet portraits. A photo can show you a dog’s markings, their size, the colour of their coat. But it can’t show you their personality: the way they tilt their head when they’re listening, the look they give you when they know they’ve been caught doing something they shouldn’t. That’s what I’m after.
Before I pick up a pen, I need to know the animal. Not just visually. I need to understand their character. So I ask the family to share stories. Did Shadow have a favourite spot in the house? What mischief did he get up to? How did he show his affection?
These details might seem small, but they’re what breathe life into a drawing. They help me decide what to emphasise, what expression to capture, what elements to include. It’s a bit like getting to know a new friend through someone who loves them.
I also like to include the owners as part of the artwork where it feels right. The bond between a pet and their person is often the real story, and capturing that connection is one of my favourite things to do.
Once I’ve studied the photographs and heard the stories, I start sketching, but not the final piece. I do maybe four or five small pencil drawings on separate paper, trying different poses and angles, getting a feel for Shadow’s unique elements. The slightly crazy look in his eyes. The energy. The playful, happy chaos of him.
This part takes time. I repeat it until I have a real grasp of the subject. It’s not efficient, but it’s the only way I know to genuinely understand an animal before committing to the final drawing.
I start with the eyes, always the eyes. They’re where the personality lives. Capturing the exact glint of mischief and loyalty in Shadow’s gaze is the foundation everything else builds on.
After the character development sketches, I can ink directly onto the final paper with no pencil guide. This is the part that surprises people. But working freehand allows for free-flowing movements and those little incidentals that breathe life into a drawing. A slightly imperfect line. An unexpected mark that somehow captures something a careful, planned stroke never would.
My years at Walt Disney Animation Australia and my graphic design background taught me a lot about capturing detail and expression. But with pet portraits, it’s the emotional connection that matters most. I think about Shadow running around with that chaotic energy. I imagine the warmth of the family’s memories. We don’t need every visual detail. It’s his unique character, that crazed, playful, happy feeling, that’s the real message. Otherwise, we could just take a photo.
Once the bulk of the drawing is done, I set it aside for a few days. When I come back, I can evaluate it with fresh eyes, as though seeing it for the first time. What works? What doesn’t? Does it need stronger ink in places? Is the design balanced?
This is where the unforgiving nature of ink matters. Ink can’t be rubbed out. If something needs removing, it often means starting the whole drawing again. Fortunately, because I’ve done all those character sketches first, this doesn’t happen often anymore.
The final step is one of my favourites: I evaluate the balance of the composition and strategically throw some ink spots. It sounds random, but it’s deliberate. The spots relax the mood, create a sense of spontaneity, and add a dynamic tension between the careful drawing and something wilder. Order and chaos, sitting together.
Presenting a finished portrait to a pet’s family is always a moment. Watching their eyes light up, sometimes with tears, is why I do this work. The portrait becomes more than a drawing. It becomes a keepsake, a piece of their family story, a way to keep a beloved companion close even after they’re gone.
Here’s what you’d want to know:
How does it work?
It starts with a chat. You tell me about your pet’s personality, share your favourite photos, and let me know if there’s anything specific you’d like captured. From there, I begin the drawing process and keep you updated as it takes shape.
How long does it take?
Usually 2 to 4 weeks from our first conversation to the finished piece. I don’t rush these. Each one gets the time it deserves. If you’re working to a deadline (a birthday, Christmas), let me know and I’ll do my best.
Can I choose the style?
My signature style is black-and-white ink, but I’m always open to discussing what you’re after. We’ll sort out the details during our initial chat.
What about multiple pets?
I love drawing multiple pets together. It’s a beautiful way to capture the dynamics between them. We’d discuss the layout and composition so the final piece feels balanced and true to their personalities.
How should I care for the portrait?
Frame it behind glass to protect from dust, moisture, and direct sunlight. Keep it away from high humidity areas. With proper care, it’ll last for years.
What does it cost?
Pricing depends on the size and complexity. I’ll give you a clear quote after our initial conversation so there are no surprises.
If you’d like to immortalise your pet in ink, get in touch. I’d love to hear their story.
A quick walk through the six galleries at Running Duck Studio, from black and white ink drawings to functional art you can use every day.
A black and white ink drawing has no colour to hide behind. Here is what we look for in an animal drawing, from the eye to the empty paper, and what a piece costs to take home.
Step behind the gallery doors at Running Duck Studio for a rare open weekend as part of Naughty November on Tawny Trails. Discover the brand-new Backyard Confessions collection, enjoy a little indulgence and glimpse an exciting new artistic direction. With unexpected surprises and a touch of mischief along the way, this is no ordinary gallery visit. No bookings required, just bring your curiosity!