I’m a Bristol-based artist whose passion for art began at school and has grown into a distinctive, personal style. After studying at the Royal Academy Bristol School of Art, I developed an approach that blends traditional techniques with modern methods. I draw inspiration from the meticulous detail of artists like George Stubbs, alongside the expressive, bold brushwork seen in contemporary artists such as Justine Osborne.
Alongside my artistic training, I studied at Goldsmiths, University of London, where I earned a BA in Drama and Theatre Arts. During this time, I continued to refine my painting skills and began developing the two distinctive styles that define my work today.
My aim is to capture a deeply personal impression of each subject through expressive use of colour, light, and confident brushwork. My black-and-white commissions explore the striking contrast between light and the depth of fur, while my watercolour pieces celebrate vibrant colour—laying down paint first before adding fine details in pen.
What began as a lockdown hobby—sketching my two Labradors—quickly evolved into a full-time artistic career within a year. Today, I create bespoke ‘pawtraits’ that celebrate the character and individuality of every animal I paint.
You can explore examples of my work on my portfolio page, or follow along on social media via Facebook and Instagram (@chescaspawtraits) to gain a deeper insight into my creative process.