Hello, I’m Ruth McGrady, a Wiltshire-based Pet Artist.
For more than two decades, I’ve made my home—and built my career—in Wiltshire. But my love of creativity began long before that, during my childhood in the woodlands of Bedfordshire. Surrounded by the shifting colours and textures of the seasons, I found endless inspiration to paint.
Growing up with so much space meant our home was always alive with animals. Every pet we had found their way into my early sketchbooks and paintings. My affection for animals has been a constant thread throughout my life.
How Did I Begin Painting Pets Professionally?
I had a universal nudge as they say, one of those serendipitous moments. While working as a Development Coach, I decided to surprise a friend with a painting of her dog. Her reaction—joyful tears and complete shock—said everything. She shared the piece on Facebook, and within hours one of her friends contacted me for a commission of two dogs. And just like that, my journey as a pet portrait artist began.
Why Do I Paint Pets?
The answer is simple: I genuinely love it. Bringing joy to people through art is special and deeply fulfilling. Watching clients see their finished portrait for the first time—whether through tears, silence, or a glowing smile—is priceless. My running joke is that I have a 100% “cry-rate,” !
Those emotional reactions mean the portrait I have create has gone beyond just that and that’s the magic!
Ruth x
Happy Customers!
Serious talent!
“Ruth did an amazing job on painting Merlot. A serious talent. Thank you so much, we love it!”
