Animal Portraits by Hannelie Gouws

Welcome to my animal portrait website. I’m Hannelie Gouws and I have been a animal lover and portrait artist for over 10 years now. I’m a artist based in Cape Town, South Africa and I love creating customised hand painted animal portraits for you in watercolour, pencil or soft pastel. I can also create digitally remastered works if so preferred. My custom animal portraits can be supplied framed or unframed. The works that clients ask me to paint are available in a range of sizes. Some examples of my work can be seen on this website or can be viewed on my Facebook and Instagram pages. I have been delighting clients with portraits of their beloved animals from their photos that they supply. Many of my portraits are from people who want a lifelike portrait to remember a recently passed, loved pet or animal. With a good photo to work from and by talking to my client about their animal's personality I aim to bring their lost friend to life in the animal portraits I produce. Having a painting of the animal we have loved can be very comforting when they have gone.
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High-Quality Materials & Digital Delivery:

I use premium materials for traditional artworks and offer high-resolution digital formats perfect for printing, sharing, or framing — your choice, your style.

Gifts That Make Hearts Melt:

Looking for a meaningful gift for a fellow pet lover? My portraits make unforgettable birthday, memorial, holiday, or “just because” gifts that show how much you care.

Why Choose My Pet Portrait Services?

With years of experience in custom portraiture and design, I specialize in creating expressive, one-of-a-kind pet portraits that go beyond a simple likeness — I capture your pet’s unique personality and spirit.

Personalized to Perfection:

Each piece is tailored to your pet’s quirks and charm. Whether you’re looking for a whimsical cartoon-style illustration, a modern minimalist design, or a realistic fine-art portrait, I’ll bring your vision to life.

Pastel Animal Portrait

Soft Pastel Portraits

"From Fluff to Fine Art!"
With soft pastels and plenty of heart, these custom pet portraits turn your furry friend into a cuddly masterpiece.

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Digital Portraits

"A Digital Keepsake of Love and Loyalty"
Gracefully illustrated, these custom digital portraits capture the soul of your pet with refined detail and timeless design—ready to print, frame, or share.

Watercolour Portraits

"Watercolor Whispers: A Portrait of Loyalty & Love"
Delicate brushstrokes and subtle washes of color bring out the soulful essence of your beloved companion in an heirloom-worthy piece.

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Gouache Portraits

""Tail-Wagging Art for Pet Lovers!"
Bring out your pet’s quirks, cuddles, and cuteness with a whimsical gouache painting that’s as fun and vibrant as they are.

Pet Portrait Styles – Artistic & Unique


Soft Pastel Style

Soft pastel portraits have a smooth, almost powdery look. The colours are rich but blended softly, creating a delicate, velvety texture that brings out your pet’s sweet expressions and fluffy features. It feels warm, emotional, and beautifully handmade.

Perfect for soft souls, memorial pieces, or anyone who loves a gentle, heartfelt vibe.

Watercolour Style

If you’re into gentle, flowy art, watercolour might be your style. With light washes of colour and soft edges, it gives your pet a sweet, dreamy look. Fine detail can be achieved with glazing and layers.

Perfect for gifts, memorials, or pretty home decor.

Coloured Pencil Style

Want something full of charm and fine detail? Coloured pencil portraits blend soft texture with realistic color. This style lets me capture every little quirk — from shiny eyes to fluffy fur — with a cozy, hand-drawn feel. The colours are natural and gentle, giving the portrait a personal, storybook-like touch.

 

Great if you love traditional art that feels warm and handcrafted!

Pet Portrait Styles – Artistic & Unique


Soft Pastel Style

Soft pastel portraits have a smooth, almost powdery look. The colors are rich but blended softly, creating a delicate, velvety texture that brings out your pet’s sweet expressions and fluffy features. It feels warm, emotional, and beautifully handmade.

Perfect for soft souls, memorial pieces, or anyone who loves a gentle, heartfelt vibe.

Watercolour Style

If you’re into gentle, flowy art, watercolour might be your style. With light washes of color and soft edges, it gives your pet a sweet, dreamy look. Fine detail can be achieved with glazing and layers.

Perfect for gifts, memorials, or pretty home decor.

Coloured Pencil Style

Want something full of charm and fine detail? Coloured pencil portraits blend soft texture with realistic color. This style lets me capture every little quirk — from shiny eyes to fluffy fur — with a cozy, hand-drawn feel. The colors are natural and gentle, giving the portrait a personal, storybook-like touch.

Great if you love traditional art that feels warm and handcrafted!