A portrait of the winner of Best in Show at Crufts 2013, Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen, Ch Soletrader Peek a Boo, known across the world as Jilly, will be unveiled at Crufts 2014 to breeder and handler Gavin Robertson by the Chairman of the Kennel Club Arts Foundation, Mike Townsend and the artist who created the portrait.
Artist, Paul Doyle from Gainsborough, North Lincolnshire, used a mixed media technique to create the portrait, 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. He took the time out to come and meet Jilly personally and took photos of her at different angles. He has captured her at her best. 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, March 7 at 7pm in the Main Arena. The portrait will then be retained by the Kennel Club Arts Foundation and Gavin and Sara will receive a copy of the image to display in their home.
