illustration close up cat eyes by Jan Wallen Pet Portrait Artist

Recently I was interviewed by Gus Pedersen for the Saugerties Artists Studio Tour 2026, and I thought you’d like to read the interview and my answers. Gus Pedersen filmed the interview, and asked me more questions later on. Gus is a filmmaker, and he’s also on the Saugerties Artists Studio Tour. One of his short films is in the art in the Art in the Barn Show. 

Details here – Saugerties Artists Studio Tour website

Art in the Barn Show – Open weekends until July 26th

Saturdays 10 AM – 5 PM                 Sundays 1 PM – 5 PM

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Saugerties Artists Studio TourAugust 8th and 9th

10 AM – 6 PM

Jan Wallen’s Artist Page – Custom Pet Portraits

The Saugerties Artists Studio Tour is where 46 artists in Saugerties open up their Studios to the public, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

You can go to the Studios, see their art, talk to the artists about how their inspiration comes to them, how they create their art ,and ask any questions you want to.

What I like so much about the Art in the Barn Show is that it’s a preview of the Tour. Many of the artists on the tour have artworks in the show at the barn. That way, you can see their artworks. There’s also a paper map of the Tour and on the Tour website that show a postage size picture of the  artworks. I find it hard to tell from such a small piece  exactly what their artwork is like.

I was interviewed recently by Gus Pedersen, and I thought you’d like to read the interview and my answers. Gus Pedersen filmed the interview, and asked  me more questions later on. Gus is a filmmaker, and he’s also on the Saugerties Artists Studio Tour. One of his short films is in the art in the Art in the Barn Show. 

So, let’s get going with the interview.

I do custom pet portraits where people send me photos of their pets, then we talk so that I get to know them and their pets better. And then I create a portrait of their pet in colored pencil that they can frame and hang on their wall.

Part of what I love about this work is the precision — the colors must be just right. Everything must be just right. I choose the colors carefully, and the best brand of colored pencils to use. Each brand is different and produces different looks and characteristics. There’s more to it than just getting the black or white or brown spots in the right place.

I do custom pet portraits where people send me photos of their pets, then we talk so that I get to know them and their pets better. And then I create a portrait of their pet in colored pencil that they can frame and hang on their wall.

When you visit my studio, you’ll see where I work, the materials I use, portraits Ive completed, artworks in progress. And I’ll show you how I choose the colors and the best materials for your pet’s portrait. Each one is different. You’ll also have a chance to ask me any questions you want.

I’ve always worked in different art forms, including watercolor and sketching. The first time I did a pet portrait and colored pencil, I absolutely loved doing it. What I love most is bringing the pet’s unique personality to life. Each pet is different, and it’s important to me to get their special look and personality into the portrait. 

When a client calls me to arrange for a portrait, we talk, and I look at photographs to get to know them and their pet better. That way, when I do the portrait, the personality and uniqueness of the pet really comes out. I think of our process as a collaboration with the clients.

I’ve always loved cats, and I know what it’s like to own and love pets. I really enjoy working with and collaborating pet owners so their pet’s unique personality comes to life, and the owners will have wonderful memories of their pet. I love creating something that will be treasured.

In creating a portrait, I’m creating something that my clients are going to love and treasure for years to come.

You can call or text me to set up a time to talk, or go to my website for Jan Wallen Custom Pet Portraits

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