A Painting for Poppy — Remembering with Brush and Heart
This portrait of Poppy, a beloved Yorkshire Terrier, became a deeply personal tribute — not just painted with care, but finished with a tiny amount of her ashes in the final layers. In this post, I share the story behind the painting, the process of capturing her spirit, and what it meant to honour her in this unique and heartfelt way. .
Squorn
5/17/20251 min read


Some paintings carry more than just colour — they carry memory, love, and the quiet ache of missing someone dearly.
Poppy was a Yorkshire Terrier full of sparkle and spirit. She loved to be brushed, wore her bows with pride, and brought joy wherever she went. When I was asked to paint her portrait, I knew it would be more than just a likeness. This was about honouring the soul of a little dog who was deeply loved.
It was also the first time I’ve ever used ashes in a painting. A small amount of Poppy’s ashes were carefully mixed into the final layers — not something I took lightly. It was done with great thought and tenderness, a quiet way of including her not just as the subject, but in the painting itself. As I brushed those last touches into her fur, her bow, her glow, it felt like she was there with me in a very real way.
The painting came together in layers, slowly and patiently. Her fur — so full of texture and nuance — took time to build. Underpainting the darks helped create the depth that made her softness shine. The little details mattered: her shiny tag, her polka dot bow, the hint of light in her eyes. Each was a part of who she was.
Before oiling out, I paused — not just to prep the surface, but to take a moment with her. Even unfinished, she already felt present. Familiar. Loved.
Now that the painting is finished, it feels like more than a portrait. It’s a tribute, both in image and in substance. A way to hold onto her, not just in memory, but through the physicality of paint — layers of love, story, and care.
Thank you, Poppy. It was an honour to paint you.
Unique pet portraits and whimsical artwork creations.
squorn@.squorn-artist.com
© 2025. All rights reserved.
Stay connected
Sign up for a monthly newsletter featuring new artworks, upcoming events, or behind-the-scenes insights.
With exclusive discounts or early access to new collections for subscribers.