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Arita

Portrait Artist specialising in animals and people using artist colour pencil, pastels, acrylics or mixed media

Hi

My name is Rita Simmonds, and I am based in the Midlands, and I have been a self-employed artist since 2000.

When I create a portrait my aim is to bring the subject alive, so my focus is on them, therefore any backgrounds are likely to be plain or bokeh (See Buster in the canine section).

I enjoy what I do and pride myself on being able to capture a strong likeness of the subject, which is achieved by spending time and patience on my work and listening to the client throughout the process.

I aim to create something that will give you years of pleasure so each portrait can take several weeks to complete. When I am ready to start your portrait, I select the materials and create an outline drawing then contact back with you to check the portrait will contain all the elements you desire.

Once I know you are happy with everything, I will start work sending you regular updates to make sure we remain on the right track. When the portrait is finished, I will contact you again so we can discuss delivery or collection. Then l will invoice you for the balance, which you can pay by bank transfer, or I can accept most cards.

Your portrait will arrive in a cellophane packet with a mount to suit the size of frame you plan to use; if it is to be sent by post, it will also be carefully packaged to minimize the risk of damage during its journey to you.

Materials

My portraits are created on acid free media, using the best Professional Artist quality materials and lightfast pigments, and are finished using a finishing sealant that does not discolour over time. This adds to the longevity of each portrait so each one should last a lifetime. Since it will be with you for many years to come, it is important to select a pose you would like to see on your walls.

I can also provide portraits on canvas for my acrylic work, this is an additional service so please contact me for prices. If you have any other questions about any of my materials or processes, please feel free to ask using the form below.

About me

I have spent my life making things, whether that's a soft sculpted animal, a 3d creation by Needlefelting wool, a website, a wood carving, a clay figurine, a written piece of work, jewellery, photos, videos, stories, poems or simply a loaf of bread or something else to eat. I rarely follow a recipe or pattern unless I am commissioned to recreate one of my designs so most of what I produce is from my own design or recipe. Some of my 3D work is shown in this picture and you can see more on my Woodland Teddies website using the link at the bottom of this page, which will open my other website in a new window.

I started making soft sculpted animals in the 90's and started Woodland Teddies in 2000 and have won awards for my work. For a time, I was the Creative Editor for Teddy Bear Times, though I have written editorial and patterns for Teddy bear Scene and created others for Teddy Bear Club International and a couple of craft magazines. I have won awards for my 3D creations and had several of my portraits exhibited and featured in Ann Kullberg's Monthly Art Showcase and the UKCPS Magazine.

I have been creating things for as long as I can remember. While it can be incredibly challenging at times, I can't describe the sense of satisfaction that comes from seeing another person fall in love with something I have made; it is so rewarding. I enjoy what I do so I plan to continue being creative for as long as I am able.