Gainsborough: Artist’s portrait of Cruft’s Best in Show to be unveiled next month

The portrait of the Best in Show at Crufts 2013 by a Gainsborough artist will be unveiled at Crufts 2014.
Artist Paul  Doyle with his portrait of JillyArtist Paul  Doyle with his portrait of Jilly
Artist Paul Doyle with his portrait of Jilly

Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, Ch Soletrader Peek a Boo, known across the world as Jilly, was painted by Paul Doyle and the piece will be unveiled to breeder and handler Gavin Robertson by the Chairman of the Kennel Club Arts Foundation, Mike Townsend.

To create the portrait, Paul used a mixed media technique using coloured pencils and acrylics to capture the spirit and character of Jilly, and spent time observing and photographing her to achieve this.

Paul said: “It was very important to get a better understanding of Jilly and the relationship she has developed with her owner.”

“I took some photographic references so I could start on sketches before I planned out the finished piece.”

“I finished the picture by adding highlights and softer edges with both coloured pencils and acrylic paints.”

Gavin’s wife, Sara, said: “Paul has really captured Jilly’s expression perfectly.”

“We will be very proud to have this portrait displayed in the Kennel Club for years to come.”

Gavin Robertson will be presented with the portrait on Friday 7th March.

The portrait will then be retained by the Kennel Club Arts Foundation and Gavin and Sara will receive a copy of the image for them to display in their home.

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