You don’t just want to paint dogs.
You want to create portraits that feel alive.
Portraits where the eyes hold emotion. Where the fur has softness and depth. Where the personality, emotion, and presence of the animal comes through.
You want to look at a finished painting and think:
I did this.
I can actually do this.
But right now, something keeps getting in the way.
You start with excitement… then second-guess every brushstroke.
You wonder:
- Am I using the right colors?
- Why doesn’t this look realistic yet?
- How do I make the fur look soft instead of flat?
- Why do I keep getting stuck halfway through?
- What if I can’t do the pet justice?
And underneath all of that is the deeper question:
Can I really become a pet portrait artist?
You do not need another decade of uncertainty before calling yourself an artist.
You need a process, guidance, and the willingness to begin.
You don’t just want to paint dogs.
You want to create portraits that feel alive.
Portraits where the eyes hold emotion. Where the fur has softness and depth. Where the personality, emotion, and presence of the animal comes through.
You want to look at a finished painting and think:
I did this.
I can actually do this.
But right now, something keeps getting in the way.
You start with excitement… then second-guess every brushstroke.
You wonder:
- Am I using the right colors?
- Why doesn’t this look realistic yet?
- How do I make the fur look soft instead of flat?
- Why do I keep getting stuck halfway through?
- What if I can’t do the pet justice?
And underneath all of that is the deeper question:
Can I really become a pet portrait artist?
You do not need another decade of uncertainty before calling yourself an artist.
You need a process, guidance, and the willingness to begin.
You don’t just want to paint dogs.
You want to create portraits that feel alive.
Portraits where the eyes hold emotion. Where the fur has softness and depth. Where the personality, emotion, and presence of the animal comes through.
You want to look at a finished painting and think:
I did this.
I can actually do this.
But right now, something keeps getting in the way.
You start with excitement… then second-guess every brushstroke.
You wonder:
- Am I using the right colors?
- Why doesn’t this look realistic yet?
- How do I make the fur look soft instead of flat?
- Why do I keep getting stuck halfway through?
- What if I can’t do the pet justice?
And underneath all of that is the deeper question:
Can I really become a pet portrait artist?
You do not need another decade of uncertainty before calling yourself an artist.
You need a process, guidance, and the willingness to begin.
This is where that changes.
How to Paint a Dog Portrait is a transformational 9-week mentorship experience designed to help you move from overwhelmed, self-doubting, and inconsistent…
to confidently creating soulful commissioned pet portraits with emotional depth, mastery, and a clear process you can trust.
This is where that changes.
How to Paint a Dog Portrait is a transformational 9-week mentorship experience designed to help you move from overwhelmed, self-doubting, and inconsistent…
to confidently creating soulful commissioned pet portraits with emotional depth, mastery, and a clear process you can trust.
This is where that changes.
How to Paint a Dog Portrait is a transformational 9-week mentorship experience designed to help you move from overwhelmed, self-doubting, and inconsistent…
to confidently creating soulful commissioned pet portraits with emotional depth, mastery, and a clear process you can trust.
You are not lacking talent.
You’re missing a process you can trust.
Most artists struggle because they’re trying to figure everything out alone.
They jump between tutorials. They second-guess every decision. They repaint the same section over and over. They rely on motivation instead of process.
Inside this mentorship experience, I guide you through the exact layered process I use to create my commissioned pet portraits from sketch to finished painting.
You’ll learn how to:
- Move through a portrait step-by-step from sketch to finished painting
- Paint soulful eyes that feel emotionally alive
- Build realistic fur, softness, and depth using layered acrylic techniques
- Understand color, softness, edges, and depth in a way that finally makes your portraits feel believable and alive
- Move through creative resistance and create portraits that feel deeply meaningful
So instead of guessing your way through every painting…
you begin painting with clarity, confidence, and intention.
You are not lacking talent.
You’re missing a process you can trust.
Most artists struggle because they’re trying to figure everything out alone.
They jump between tutorials. They second-guess every decision. They repaint the same section over and over. They rely on motivation instead of process.
Inside this mentorship experience, I guide you through the exact layered process I use to create my commissioned pet portraits from sketch to finished painting.
You’ll learn how to:
- Move through a portrait step-by-step from sketch to finished painting
- Paint soulful eyes that feel emotionally alive
- Build realistic fur, softness, and depth using layered acrylic techniques
- Understand color, softness, edges, and depth in a way that finally makes your portraits feel believable and alive
- Move through creative resistance and create portraits that feel deeply meaningful
So instead of guessing your way through every painting…
you begin painting with clarity, confidence, and intention.
You are not lacking talent.
You’re missing a process you can trust.
Most artists struggle because they’re trying to figure everything out alone.
They jump between tutorials. They second-guess every decision. They repaint the same section over and over. They rely on motivation instead of process.
Inside this mentorship experience, I guide you through the exact layered process I use to create my commissioned pet portraits from sketch to finished painting.
You’ll learn how to:
- Move through a portrait step-by-step from sketch to finished painting
- Paint soulful eyes that feel emotionally alive
- Build realistic fur, softness, and depth using layered acrylic techniques
- Understand color, softness, edges, and depth in a way that finally makes your portraits feel believable and alive
- Move through creative resistance and create portraits that feel deeply meaningful
So instead of guessing your way through every painting…
you begin painting with clarity, confidence, and intention.
Every commissioned portrait I create begins the same way:
with structure, layering, patience, and a clear process I can trust.
Developing the Main Features
Finishing the First Layer
Building Depth
Finished Portrait
Every commissioned portrait I create begins the same way:
with structure, layering, patience, and a clear process I can trust..
Developing the Main Features
Finishing the First Layer
Building Depth
Finished Portrait
Every commissioned portrait I create begins the same way:
with structure, layering, patience, and a clear process I can trust.
Developing the Main Features
Finishing the First Layer
Building Depth
Finished Portrait
Every painting below was created by a student inside How to Paint a Dog Portrait.
They all began with the same reference photo.
The same lessons.
The same process.
And yet each artist brought their own hand, growth, emotion, and interpretation into the final portrait.
Many students entered this course believing:
I’m not good enough.
I could never paint realistically.
I’ll probably fail.
And then they created these portraits they never believed they were capable of painting.
“I can officially call myself a commissioned pet portrait artist.”
— Emily Lyman
“After 24 years as a professional painter, I still found new depth in this work.” — Michelle Henderson-Topp
“My life is forever changed… I got two commissions.”
— Jayne Morton-Terrault
“I am still amazed at what I accomplished.” — Nancy Powell
“The calmness and egoless energy she teaches with is extraordinary.” — Miriam Campbell
“The course is outstanding and Erica’s dedication is priceless.” — Cristina Col
This is what happens when artists stop hiding and finally give themselves permission to grow.
Every painting below was created by a student inside How to Paint a Dog Portrait.
They all began with the same reference photo.
The same lessons.
The same process.
And yet each artist brought their own hand, growth, emotion, and interpretation into the final portrait.
Many students entered this course believing:
I’m not good enough.
I could never paint realistically.
I’ll probably fail.
And then they created these portraits they never believed they were capable of painting.
“I can officially call myself a commissioned pet portrait artist.”
— Emily Lyman
“After 24 years as a professional painter, I still found new depth in this work.” — Michelle Henderson-Topp
“My life is forever changed… I got two commissions.”
— Jayne Morton-Terrault
“I am still amazed at what I accomplished.” — Nancy Powell
“The calmness and egoless energy she teaches with is extraordinary.” — Miriam Campbell
“The course is outstanding and Erica’s dedication is priceless.” — Cristina Col
This is what happens when artists stop hiding and finally give themselves permission to grow.
Every painting below was created by a student inside How to Paint a Dog Portrait.
They all began with the same reference photo.
The same lessons.
The same process.
And yet each artist brought their own hand, growth, emotion, and interpretation into the final portrait.
Many students entered this course believing:
I’m not good enough.
I could never paint realistically.
I’ll probably fail.
And then they created these portraits they never believed they were capable of painting.
“I can officially call myself a commissioned pet portrait artist.”
— Emily Lyman
“After 24 years as a professional painter, I still found new depth in this work.” — Michelle Henderson-Topp
“My life is forever changed… I got two commissions.”
— Jayne Morton-Terrault
“I am still amazed at what I accomplished.” — Nancy Powell
“The calmness and egoless energy she teaches with is extraordinary.” — Miriam Campbell
“The course is outstanding and Erica’s dedication is priceless.” — Cristina Col
This is what happens when artists stop hiding and finally give themselves permission to grow.
What begins to happen when you trust the process
Your portraits begin to feel emotionally alive.
They begin carrying your artistic signature instead of looking stiff, uncertain, or unfinished.
You stop second-guessing every brushstroke.
You begin trusting your eye.
Your layering.
Your making decisions.
And over time, you create portraits that move clients so deeply they cannot stop looking at them.
That is exactly what this process is designed to help you do.
What begins to happen when you trust the process
Your portraits begin to feel emotionally alive.
They begin carrying your artistic signature instead of looking stiff, uncertain, or unfinished.
You stop second-guessing every brushstroke.
You begin trusting your eye.
Your layering.
Your decisions.
And over time, you create portraits that move clients so deeply they cannot stop looking at them.
That is exactly what this process is designed to help you do.
What begins to happen when you trust the process
Your portraits begin to feel emotionally alive.
They begin carrying your artistic signature instead of looking stiff, uncertain, or unfinished.
You stop second-guessing every brushstroke.
You begin trusting your eye.
Your layering.
Your decisions.
And over time, you create portraits that move clients so deeply they cannot stop looking at them.
That is exactly what this process is designed to help you do.
One day, this becomes natural.
You sit down to paint and actually know what to do next.
You understand the structure beneath the portrait instead of feeling overwhelmed by every detail.
The eyes begin to come alive.
The fur begins to soften.
The portrait begins to feel real.
And eventually, you finish paintings you feel genuinely proud to share.
Then something else begins to happen.
People start asking:
“Can you paint my dog too?”
Because this process doesn’t just teach technique.
It helps artists become capable of creating commissioned-quality portraits with confidence, emotional depth, and trust in their work.
One day, this becomes natural
You sit down to paint and actually know what to do next.
You understand the structure beneath the portrait instead of feeling overwhelmed by every detail.
The eyes begin to come alive.
The fur begins to soften.
The portrait begins to feel real.
And eventually, you finish paintings you feel genuinely proud to share.
Then something else begins to happen.
People start asking:
“Can you paint my dog too?”
Because this process doesn’t just teach technique.
It helps artists become capable of creating commissioned-quality portraits with confidence, emotional depth, and trust in their work.
One day, this becomes natural
You sit down to paint and actually know what to do next.
You understand the structure beneath the portrait instead of feeling overwhelmed by every detail.
The eyes begin to come alive.
The fur begins to soften.
The portrait begins to feel real.
And eventually, you finish paintings you feel genuinely proud to share.
Then something else begins to happen.
People start asking:
“Can you paint my dog too?”
Because this process doesn’t just teach technique.
It helps artists become capable of creating commissioned-quality portraits with confidence, emotional depth, and trust in their work.
This is about more than painting dogs.
“I started from absolutely nothing… now I have three commissions”
Emily Lyman, Mississippi, USA
“You’re supported emotionally and technically.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
“My life is forever changed… I got two commissions.”
“I really couldn’t have found a better course to begin my painting career with than Erica’s. It inspired me to continue to grow and enjoy painting.
Just yesterday I got two commissions!”
JAYNE MORTON -TERRAULT
Beginner from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
“I started from absolutely nothing… now I have three commissions”
Emily Lyman, Mississippi, USA
“I love her teaching style. She’s very nurturing and supportive.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
“My life is forever changed… I got two commissions.”
“I really couldn’t have found a better course to begin my painting career with than Erica’s. It inspired me to continue to grow and enjoy painting.
Just yesterday I got two commissions!”
JAYNE MORTON -TERRAULT
Beginner from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
“I started from absolutely nothing… now I have three commissions”
Emily Lyman, Mississippi, USA
“I love her teaching style. She’s very nurturing and supportive.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
“My life is forever changed… I got two commissions.”
“I really couldn’t have found a better course to begin my painting career with than Erica’s. It inspired me to continue to grow and enjoy painting.
Just yesterday I got two commissions!”
JAYNE MORTON -TERRAULT
Beginner from Calgary, Alberta, Canada
This is not just about technique.
Most painting courses teach brushstrokes.
But becoming a pet portrait artist requires far more than technique alone.
It requires emotional depth, artistic confidence, technical mastery, and a process you can return to again and again.
Because the goal is not simply to finish one portrait.
The goal is to become the kind of artist who can confidently continue creating emotionally realistic pet portraits long after the course ends.
Many students enter this course believing they simply don’t have ‘enough talent’.
And leave seeing themselves completely differently as artists.
This is not just about technique.
Most painting courses teach brushstrokes.
But becoming a pet portrait artist requires far more than technique alone.
It requires emotional depth, artistic confidence, technical mastery, and a process you can return to again and again.
Because the goal is not simply to finish one portrait.
The goal is to become the kind of artist who can confidently continue creating emotionally realistic pet portraits long after the course ends.
Many students enter this course believing they simply don’t have ‘enough talent’.
And leave seeing themselves completely differently as artists.
This is not just about technique.
Most painting courses teach brushstrokes.
Most painting courses teach brushstrokes.
But becoming a pet portrait artist requires far more than technique alone.
It requires emotional depth, artistic confidence, technical mastery, and a process you can return to again and again.
Because the goal is not simply to finish one portrait.
The goal is to become the kind of artist who can confidently continue creating emotionally realistic pet portraits long after the course ends.
Many students enter this course believing they simply don’t have “enough talent.”
And leave seeing themselves completely differently as artists.
Meet Your Instructor
Erica Eriksdotter
I’m a third-generation painter and professional pet portrait artist whose work has been collected around the world and featured in publications including The Washington Post and The New York Times.
For years, I struggled through the exact same frustration many artists experience.
I loved painting animals deeply. But I constantly second-guessed myself. I overworked paintings. I felt overwhelmed by realism. And I desperately wanted a process I could trust.
Over years of painting commissioned portraits, I developed a layered acrylic method rooted in structure, observation, emotional connection, and realistic depth.
Today, my portraits are collected by clients around the world.
And now I guide artists through this same layered process so they can confidently create meaningful, emotionally moving pet portraits of their own.
Meet Your Instructor
Erica Eriksdotter
I’m a third-generation painter and professional pet portrait artist whose work has been collected around the world and featured in publications including The Washington Post and The New York Times.
For years, I struggled through the exact same frustration many artists experience.
I loved painting animals deeply. But I constantly second-guessed myself. I overworked paintings. I felt overwhelmed by realism. And I desperately wanted a process I could trust.
Over years of painting commissioned portraits, I developed a layered acrylic method rooted in structure, observation, emotional connection, and realistic depth.
Today, my portraits are collected by clients around the world.
And now I guide artists through this same layered process so they can confidently create meaningful, emotionally moving pet portraits of their own.
Meet Your Instructor
Erica Eriksdotter
I’m a third-generation painter and professional pet portrait artist whose work has been collected around the world and featured in publications including The Washington Post and The New York Times.
For years, I struggled through the exact same frustration many artists experience.
I loved painting animals deeply. But I constantly second-guessed myself. I overworked paintings. I felt overwhelmed by realism. And I desperately wanted a process I could trust.
Over years of painting commissioned portraits, I developed a layered acrylic method rooted in structure, observation, emotional connection, and realistic depth.
Today, my portraits are collected by clients around the world.
And now I guide artists through this same layered process so they can confidently create meaningful, emotionally moving pet portraits of their own.
INSIDE THE EXPERIENCE
A clear, layered process for creating commissioned-quality pet portraits.
This course is designed to guide you through the entire painting process step-by-step.
Not only technically, but emotionally and creatively as well.
THE STEP-BY-STEP PAINTING PROCESS
Learn how to move through a portrait from sketch to final details using Erica’s layered acrylic method.
You’ll learn how to:
- create realistic depth, softness, and believable fur
- paint soulful eyes that feel emotionally alive
- layer acrylics with clarity and confidence
- move through a portrait from sketch to final details
- stop second-guessing yourself and begin trusting your artistic decisions
Over 9 weeks, you’ll move through the same layered process I use to create commissioned portraits collected around the world.
INSIDE THE EXPERIENCE
A clear, layered process for creating commissioned-quality pet portraits.
This course is designed to guide you through the entire painting process step-by-step.
Not only technically, but emotionally and creatively as well.
THE STEP-BY-STEP PAINTING PROCESS
Learn how to move through a portrait from sketch to final details using Erica’s layered acrylic method.
You’ll learn how to:
- create realistic depth, softness, and believable fur
- paint soulful eyes that feel emotionally alive
- layer acrylics with clarity and confidence
- move through a portrait from sketch to final details
- stop second-guessing yourself and begin trusting your artistic decisions
Over 9 weeks, you’ll move through the same layered process I use to create commissioned portraits collected around the world.
INSIDE THE EXPERIENCE
A clear, layered process for creating commissioned-quality pet portraits.
This course is designed to guide you through the entire painting process step-by-step.
Not only technically, but emotionally and creatively as well.
THE STEP-BY-STEP PAINTING PROCESS
Learn how to move through a portrait from sketch to final details using Erica’s layered acrylic method.
You’ll learn how to:
- create realistic depth, softness, and believable fur
- paint soulful eyes that feel emotionally alive
- layer acrylics with clarity and confidence
- move through a portrait from sketch to final details
- stop second-guessing yourself and begin trusting your artistic decisions
Over 9 weeks, you’ll move through the same layered process I use to create commissioned portraits collected around the world.
Beginning the Portrait
Every commissioned portrait begins with observation, connection, and preparation.
In this first stage of the process, you’ll build the foundation for a portrait that feels emotionally alive from the very beginning.
You’ll begin:
- connecting with the dog you’ll be painting
- preparing your canvas, grid, and sketch step-by-step
- creating a workspace and mindset that support focus and follow-through
- understanding the foundational principles of portrait painting before moving into paint
By the end of this stage, you’ll feel grounded, prepared, and ready to begin the painting process with confidence.
Painting the Eyes
The eyes are the emotional center of the portrait.
Inside this stage, you’ll begin learning how to create depth, softness, realism, and emotional presence through layered acrylic techniques.
You’ll learn how to:
- build realistic form and dimension in the eyes
- understand values, reflections, and subtle color shifts
- create softness and emotional expression
- layer paint gradually instead of overworking details
- begin trusting your observation skills as an artist
This is often the moment students begin realizing they are capable of far more than they thought.
BuilDing the form
This is where the portrait begins to truly take shape.
You’ll move beyond the sketch and begin developing believable structure, softness, and realism throughout the face.
You’ll begin building:
- the ears, facial features, and surrounding form
- the first layers of the neck and body
- believable softness through layered foundation work
- stronger observational and blending skills
- confidence in moving through the portrait step-by-step
This stage teaches you how realistic portraits are built patiently through layering, not perfection.
DEVELOPING SOFTNESS & DEPTH
As the layers begin building, the portrait starts feeling more dimensional and alive.
Inside this phase, you’ll deepen your understanding of fur, edges, blending, and atmospheric realism.
You’ll learn how to:
- create softness without losing structure
- paint believable fur using layered acrylic techniques
- strengthen depth, values, and transitions
- avoid common mistakes that make portraits feel flat
- refine your eye for subtle detail and realism
This stage helps artists move from “painting details” into truly creating form and depth.
BUILDING EMOTIONAL REALISM
This is often the stage where artists begin doubting themselves.
And it’s also the stage where real transformation begins.
You’ll learn how to move through the discomfort that often happens before a portrait fully comes alive.
Inside this phase, you’ll explore how:
- layered foundations create emotional realism
- to continue refining the portrait without overworking it
- patience creates believable depth and softness
- emotion and attachment influence the painting process
- meaningful animal portraiture can become deeply healing work
This stage transforms both the painting and the artist creating it.
REFINING THE PORTRAIT
With the foundation established, you’ll begin refining the portrait with greater clarity and intention.
You’ll deepen realism while learning how to maintain softness, balance, and emotional presence.
You’ll focus on:
- refining fur direction and texture
- strengthening form and dimensionality
- creating subtle transitions and believable edges
- learning when to push detail and when to simplify
- developing a more confident artistic eye
This is often the stage where students stop feeling overwhelmed and begin trusting the process.
CREATING ATMOSPHERE & PRESENCE
Portraits that feel emotionally alive require more than technical realism.
In this stage, you’ll learn how atmosphere, softness, color relationships, and subtle artistic decisions create emotional connection inside the work.
You’ll explore:
- creating harmony throughout the portrait
- strengthening emotional presence through color and softness
- balancing realism with artistic interpretation
- understanding how backgrounds support the portrait
- developing your own artistic voice within the process
This is where many students begin seeing their own artistic signature emerge.
FINAL REFINEMENTS
Inside this phase, you’ll continue refining the portrait while learning how to bring the entire painting together cohesively.
You’ll focus on:
- subtle detail work and finishing techniques
- refining softness, edges, and transitions
- strengthening realism without overworking the painting
- creating balance throughout the portrait
- learning how to evaluate your work with greater confidence
By this stage, the portrait begins carrying the emotional depth and realism you envisioned from the beginning.
FINAL REFINEMENTS
In the final stage, you’ll complete the portrait through the subtle refinements that bring the painting fully to life.
You’ll learn how to:
- add final details like whiskers and finishing touches
- recognize when a portrait is truly complete
- preserve softness and emotional realism in the final stages
- sign, protect, and care for your finished painting
- move forward with greater confidence as an artist
By the end of this experience, you won’t simply have completed a portrait.
You’ll have transformed the way you see yourself and what you’re capable of creating.
“It’s taking me to the very details I had never visited and I’m really excited learning.”
Michelle Henderson-Topp, B.C., Canada
“It’s taking me to the very details I had never visited and I’m really excited learning.”
Michelle Henderson-Topp, B.C., Canada
“It’s taking me to the very details I had never visited and I’m really excited learning.”
Michelle Henderson-Topp, B.C., Canada
Live Coaching & Artistic Support
You won’t be left alone trying to figure this out.
Inside the course, you’ll receive live coaching sessions where you can:
- ask questions
- receive guidance
- work through creative blocks
- gain clarity
- continue building confidence in your process
This level of support is often what helps artists continue through the exact moments they would normally quit, overwork, overthink, or lose confidence.
“It’s such a great, supportive place to grow as an artist, as a person.”
Michelle Henderson-Topp, Professional painter from B.C., Canada + Emily Lyman, Pet portrait painter from Mississippi, USA
Community & Accountability
You’ll be surrounded by artists who understand the emotional journey of creating meaningful work.
Inside the community, students share progress, breakthroughs, and encouragement throughout the journey.
You no longer have to navigate the creative process alone.
Professional Pet Portrait Guidance
As you grow in confidence, you’ll also receive guidance around:
- preparing reference photos
- communicating with clients
- creating commissioned-quality work
- pricing confidence
- growing into your identity as a professional pet portrait artist
Many students begin confidently accepting commissions during or after the course.
“I had many breakthroughs and I found my own style.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
Advanced Artistic Depth
Throughout the course, you’ll also deepen your understanding of:
- emotional storytelling
- color harmony
- softness and atmosphere
- creating portraits that feel alive
- painting animals with presence and soul
Because the goal is not just realism.
It’s emotional realism.
Live Coaching & Artistic Support
You won’t be left alone trying to figure this out.
Inside the course, you’ll receive live coaching sessions where you can:
- ask questions
- receive guidance
- work through creative blocks
- gain clarity
- continue building confidence in your process
This level of support is often what helps artists continue through the exact moments they would normally quit, overthink, or lose confidence.
“It’s such a great, supportive place to grow as an artist, as a person.”
Michelle Henderson-Topp, Professional painter from B.C., Canada + Emily Lyman, Pet portrait painter from Mississippi, USA
Community & Accountability
You’ll be surrounded by artists who understand the emotional journey of creating meaningful work.
Inside the community, students share progress, breakthroughs, and encouragement throughout the journey.
You no longer have to navigate the creative process alone.
Professional Pet Portrait Guidance
As you grow in confidence, you’ll also receive guidance around:
- preparing reference photos
- communicating with clients
- creating commissioned-quality work
- pricing confidence
- growing into your identity as a professional pet portrait artist
Many students begin confidently accepting commissions during or after the course.
“I had many breakthroughs and I found my own style.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
Advanced Artistic Depth
Throughout the course, you’ll also deepen your understanding of:
- emotional storytelling
- color harmony
- softness and atmosphere
- creating portraits that feel alive
- painting animals with presence and soul
Because the goal is not just realism.
It’s emotional realism.
Live Coaching & Artistic Support
You won’t be left alone trying to figure this out.
Inside the course, you’ll receive live coaching sessions where you can:
- ask questions
- receive guidance
- work through creative blocks
- gain clarity
- continue building confidence in your process
This level of support is often what helps artists continue through the exact moments they would normally quit, overthink, or lose confidence.
“It’s such a great, supportive place to grow as an artist, as a person.”
Michelle Henderson-Topp, Professional painter from B.C., Canada + Emily Lyman, Pet portrait painter from Mississippi, USA
Community & Accountability
You’ll be surrounded by artists who understand the emotional journey of creating meaningful work.
Inside the community, students share progress, breakthroughs, and encouragement throughout the journey.
You no longer have to navigate the creative process alone.
Professional Pet Portrait Guidance
As you grow in confidence, you’ll also receive guidance around:
- preparing reference photos
- communicating with clients
- creating commissioned-quality work
- pricing confidence
- growing into your identity as a professional pet portrait artist
Many students begin confidently accepting commissions during or after the course.
“I had many breakthroughs and I found my own style.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
Advanced Artistic Depth
Throughout the course, you’ll also deepen your understanding of:
- emotional storytelling
- color harmony
- softness and atmosphere
- creating portraits that feel alive
- painting animals with presence and soul
Because the goal is not just realism.
It’s emotional realism.
This work meets you where you are and takes you further.
“What’s different from other courses is the emphasis on the painting process and how to work through resistance.”
Mandy Kaiser
professional oil painter, California
“The course is outstanding and Erica’s dedication is priceless. It’s worth every penny!”
Cristina Col
professional painter, Colorado
“This course is incredibly in-depth, which has helped me stick to it. Erica’s way of teaching really works.”
Olya
intermediate painter, North East, USA
This work meets you where you are and takes you further.
“What’s different from other courses is the emphasis on the painting process and how to work through resistance.”
Mandy Kaiser
professional oil painter, California
“The course is outstanding and Erica’s dedication is priceless. It’s worth every penny!”
Cristina Col
professional painter, Colorado
“This course is incredibly in-depth, which has helped me stick to it. Erica’s way of teaching really works.”
Olya
intermediate painter, North East, USA
This work meets you where you are and takes you further.
“What’s different from other courses is the emphasis on the painting process and how to work through resistance.”
Mandy Kaiser
professional oil painter, California
“The course is outstanding and Erica’s dedication is priceless. It’s worth every penny!”
Cristina Col
professional painter, Colorado
“This course is incredibly in-depth, which has helped me stick to it. Erica’s way of teaching really works.”
Olya
intermediate painter, North East, USA
What Makes This Different
Most painting courses show you the finished result.
Inside this course, you experience the entire process in real time.
You see:
- every layer
- every brushstroke
- every adjustment
- every decision
Nothing is hidden or edited out.
You’ll watch Erica move between palette and canvas while explaining not only what she’s doing, but why.
Combined with live coaching, artistic support, community, and lifetime access, this becomes an immersive mentorship experience artists return to long after the course ends.
It becomes an immersive artistic mentorship you can return to again and again.
Students have used this process to finish portraits they once thought they couldn’t complete, raise their prices, accept commissions, and finally trust their work.
“I can sell my own art for more because I’m more confident.”
Jeanne Philippus, Texas, USA
“I don’t hesitate to charge what I’m worth, I’m getting commissions, and they’re coming to me.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
You do not become a confident pet portrait artist by waiting to feel ready.
You become one by beginning.
Another year of second-guessing yourself will not create the artist you know you’re capable of becoming.
The portraits you dream of creating begin the moment you finally give yourself a process you can trust.
Confidence is not something artists magically wake up with.
It’s built through painting.
Through practice.
Through allowing yourself to be seen.
Through continuing even when perfectionism tells you to stop.
At some point, the real risk is not investing in your growth.
The real risk is staying exactly where you are.
What Makes This Different
Most painting courses show you the finished result.
Inside this course, you experience the entire process in real time.
You see:
- every layer
- every brushstroke
- every adjustment
- every decision
Nothing is hidden or edited out.
You’ll watch Erica move between palette and canvas while explaining not only what she’s doing, but why.
Combined with live coaching, artistic support, community, and lifetime access, this becomes an immersive mentorship experience artists return to long after the course ends.
It becomes an immersive artistic mentorship you can return to again and again.
Students have used this process to finish portraits they once thought they couldn’t complete, raise their prices, accept commissions, and finally trust their work.
“I can sell my own art for more because I’m more confident.”
Jeanne Philippus, Texas, USA
“I don’t hesitate to charge what I’m worth, I’m getting commissions, and they’re coming to me.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
You do not become a confident pet portrait artist by waiting to feel ready.
You become one by beginning.
Another year of second-guessing yourself will not create the artist you know you’re capable of becoming.
The portraits you dream of creating begin the moment you finally give yourself a process you can trust.
Confidence is not something artists magically wake up with.
It’s built through painting.
Through practice.
Through allowing yourself to be seen.
Through continuing even when perfectionism tells you to stop.
At some point, the real risk is not investing in your growth.
The real risk is staying exactly where you are.
What Makes This Different
Most painting courses show you the finished result.
Inside this course, you experience the entire process in real time.
You see:
- every layer
- every brushstroke
- every adjustment
- every decision
Nothing is hidden or edited out.
You’ll watch Erica move between palette and canvas while explaining not only what she’s doing, but why.
Combined with live coaching, artistic support, community, and lifetime access, this becomes an immersive mentorship experience artists return to long after the course ends.
It becomes an immersive artistic mentorship you can return to again and again.
Students have used this process to finish portraits they once thought they couldn’t complete, raise their prices, accept commissions, and finally trust their work.
“I can sell my own art for more because I’m more confident.”
Jeanne Philippus, Texas, USA
“I don’t hesitate to charge what I’m worth, I’m getting commissions, and they’re coming to me.”
Jayne Morton-Terrault, Calgary, Canada
You do not become a confident pet portrait artist by waiting to feel ready.
You become one by beginning.
Another year of second-guessing yourself will not create the artist you know you’re capable of becoming.
The portraits you dream of creating begin the moment you finally give yourself a process you can trust.
Confidence is not something artists magically wake up with.
It’s built through painting.
Through practice.
Through allowing yourself to be seen.
Through continuing even when perfectionism tells you to stop.
At some point, the real risk is not investing in your growth.
The real risk is staying exactly where you are.
Inside the Experience
THE CORE EXPERIENCE
- 9 in-depth painting modules with over 30-hours of step-by-step instruction
- Full real-time portrait demonstrations
- Step-by-step layered acrylic process
- Palette & color mixing guidance
- Pre-Course Bonus Module: How to Thrive in This Course
LIVE GUIDANCE & SUPPORT
- 9 x 1-hour live coaching calls
- 1 x 1-hour surprise live call
- Artistic feedback & guidance
- Creative resistance support
- Private student community
- Accountability throughout the process
BONUS ARTISTIC TRAININGS
-
Blending for Values and Hues
- Preparing Your Photos
- Painting Louis’s Background
- Client Communication Guidance
- Trainings with 3 well-known creatives
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST GROWTH
-
Pricing confidence
- Commission guidance
- Reference photo preparation
- Growing into your artistic identity
- Continued course updates
LIFETIME ACCESS
Return to the process anytime you need and continue deepening your artistic voice, confidence, and technical mastery for years to come.
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Receive encouragement, accountability, and guidance from artists who understand the emotional journey of meaningful art.
100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
Join knowing you’re stepping into a deeply supportive mentorship experience designed to help you grow both technically and artistically.
Once you join, you’ll receive immediate access to the full course experience, including step-by-step painting instruction, live coaching, community support, advanced trainings, and lifetime access.
Inside the Experience
THE CORE EXPERIENCE
- 9 in-depth painting modules with over 30-hours of step-by-step instruction
- Full real-time portrait demonstrations
- Step-by-step layered acrylic process
- Palette & color mixing guidance
- Pre-Course Bonus Module: How to Thrive in This Course
LIVE GUIDANCE & SUPPORT
- 9 x 1-hour live coaching calls
- 1 x 1-hour surprise live call
- Artistic feedback & guidance
- Creative resistance support
- Private student community
- Accountability throughout the process
BONUS ARTISTIC TRAININGS
-
Blending for Values and Hues
- Preparing Your Photos
- Painting Louis’s Background
- Client Communication Guidance
- Trainings with 3 well-known creatives
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST GROWTH
-
Pricing confidence
- Commission guidance
- Reference photo preparation
- Growing into your artistic identity
- Continued course updates
LIFETIME ACCESS
Return to the process anytime you need and continue deepening your artistic voice, confidence, and technical mastery for years to come.
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Receive encouragement, accountability, and guidance from artists who understand the emotional journey of meaningful art.
100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
Join knowing you’re fully supported in your decision and artistic growth.
Once you join, you’ll receive immediate access to the full course experience, including step-by-step painting instruction, live coaching, community support, advanced trainings, and lifetime access.
Inside the Experience
THE CORE EXPERIENCE
- 9 in-depth painting modules with over 30-hours of step-by-step instruction
- Full real-time portrait demonstrations
- Step-by-step layered acrylic process
- Palette & color mixing guidance
- Pre-Course Bonus Module: How to Thrive in This Course
LIVE GUIDANCE & SUPPORT
- 9 x 1-hour live coaching calls
- 1 x 1-hour surprise live call
- Artistic feedback & guidance
- Creative resistance support
- Private student community
- Accountability throughout the process
BONUS ARTISTIC TRAININGS
-
Blending for Values and Hues
- Preparing Your Photos
- Painting Louis’s Background
- Client Communication Guidance
- Trainings with 3 well-known creatives
PROFESSIONAL ARTIST GROWTH
-
Pricing confidence
- Commission guidance
- Reference photo preparation
- Growing into your artistic identity
- Continued course updates
LIFETIME ACCESS
Return to the process anytime you need and continue deepening your artistic voice, confidence, and technical mastery for years to come.
SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
Receive encouragement, accountability, and guidance from artists who understand the emotional journey of meaningful art.
100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEE
Join knowing you’re fully supported in your decision and artistic growth.
Once you join, you’ll receive immediate access to the full course experience, including step-by-step painting instruction, live coaching, community support, advanced trainings, and lifetime access.
YOUR INVESTMENT
Total value $14,000 +
$7,497
(or $649 x 12 months)
This transformational mentorship experience is designed for artists who are ready to stop second-guessing themselves and finally develop the confidence, process, and artistic mastery to create emotionally realistic commissioned pet portraits.
YOUR INVESTMENT
Total value $14,000 +
$7,497
(or $649 x 12 months)
This transformational mentorship experience is designed for artists who are ready to stop second-guessing themselves and finally develop the confidence, process, and artistic mastery to create emotionally realistic commissioned pet portraits.
YOUR INVESTMENT
Total value $14,000+
$7,497
(or $649 x 12 months)
This transformational mentorship experience is designed for artists who are ready to stop second-guessing themselves and finally develop the confidence, process, and artistic mastery to create emotionally realistic commissioned pet portraits.
SECURE CHECKOUT
You’re protected by our 100% Money-Back Guarantee.
SECURE CHECKOUT
You’re protected by our 100% Money-Back Guarantee.
SECURE CHECKOUT
You’re protected by our 100% Money-Back Guarantee.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Everything you need to know before joining.
If you still have questions, our team is happy to help at support@studioeriksdotter.com
100% Satisfaction Guarantee!
I believe deeply in this mentorship experience and in the transformation it creates for artists who fully engage with the process.
If you join, participate fully, and genuinely feel the experience was not valuable for your artistic growth, simply reach out within the guarantee period and I’ll make it right.
I want you to feel fully supported in your decision to begin.
Refund requests must be submitted by 12pm (noon Eastern U.S. time) on your 7th day inside the course. This applies to payment plans as well.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee!
I believe deeply in this mentorship experience and in the transformation it creates for artists who fully engage with the process.
If you join, participate fully, and genuinely feel the experience was not valuable for your artistic growth, simply reach out within the guarantee period and I’ll make it right.
I want you to feel fully supported in your decision to begin.
Refund requests must be submitted by 12pm (noon Eastern U.S. time) on your 7th day in the course. This applies to payment plans as well.
100% Satisfaction Guarantee!
I believe deeply in this mentorship experience and in the transformation it creates for artists who fully engage with the process.
If you join, participate fully, and genuinely feel the experience was not valuable for your artistic growth, simply reach out within the guarantee period and I’ll make it right.
I want you to feel fully supported in your decision to begin.
Refund requests must be submitted by 12pm (noon Eastern U.S. time) on your 7th day in the course. This applies to payment plans as well.
The version of you who confidently creates emotionally realistic pet portraits already exists within you.
She is built brushstroke by brushstroke.
Painting by painting.
Decision by decision.
She emerges every time you choose to keep going instead of second-guessing yourself.
Every time you trust the process.
Every time you allow yourself to be seen.
Every time you continue instead of waiting to feel fully ready.
And she begins the moment you finally decide to begin.
Become the confident pet portrait artist you know you’re meant to be.
The version of you who confidently creates emotionally realistic pet portraits already exists within you.
She is built brushstroke by brushstroke.
Painting by painting.
Decision by decision.
She emerges every time you choose to keep going instead of second-guessing yourself.
Every time you trust the process.
Every time you allow yourself to be seen.
Every time you continue instead of waiting to feel fully ready.
And she begins the moment you finally decide to begin.
Become the confident pet portrait artist you know you’re meant to be.
The version of you who confidently creates emotionally realistic pet portraits already exists within you.
She is built brushstroke by brushstroke.
Painting by painting.
Decision by decision.
She emerges every time you choose to keep going instead of second-guessing yourself.
Every time you trust the process.
Every time you allow yourself to be seen.
Every time you continue instead of waiting to feel fully ready.
And she begins the moment you finally decide to begin.
Become the confident pet portrait artist you know you’re meant to be.
Testimonial & Results Disclaimer: Student experiences shared on this page reflect individual experiences and results from participating in How to Paint a Dog Portrait. Because every artist begins from a different place and engages with the course differently, results will naturally vary based on factors such as experience, effort, consistency, and personal artistic development.
Earnings Disclaimer: Some students may choose to pursue commissioned work or sell their artwork after participating in this course. However, individual results vary, and no income or business outcomes are guaranteed. This course is designed as an educational and artistic development experience.