Meet the Artist

I have been working hard on my “socials” for the last few months and I have gained quite a few new followers so, here is a bit about me, Verity Brodie, the artist behind Painting Tails…

I didn't start my journey as a pet portrait artist until later in life and, it is still not a full time career but, once I picked up a paintbrush in Covid times, I knew I had found my true calling and I am working tirelessly to make my dream come true.

Initially, I drew inspiration from the animals that filled my childhood and the love I share with my own pets, but then I did gifts for friends and family and things gained a momentum of their own, which led me to launch Painting Tails as a fully-fledged pet portrait business.

Using the versatile medium of watercolour, I bring my subjects to life on paper, paying close attention to every detail, from the texture of their fur to the sparkle in their eyes. Each painting is a labour of love, as I strive each and every time to create a piece of art that not only resembles the pet but also captures their spirit.  I am a complete perfectionist and I am not entirely sure I have ever been 100% happy with a commission but I was always told “you need to learn when to stop” and sometimes I have to force myself - if the client is over the moon, then I have to learn to be happy too.

Prior to launching Painting Tails I spent many happy years in the hospitality industry running cafes, bars, restaurants and hotels. I could tell many a funny story about staff mishaps and guest faux pas because, when you are in the hospitality industry you see it all, and I experienced everything from floods to theft and ran everything from raucous sporting events to beautiful weddings. I even served a few famous faces along the way and once cooked lunch for Lionel Blair but, what happens in hospitality, stays in hospitality…

I then stepped out to have my two beautiful children who are not so little these days, and that brings its own challenges but life is a roller-coaster of crazy, hectic fun and I would not have it any other way.

When I am not in my studio, or running around after my family, my pastimes include spending time with extended family and friends, reading, gym work or enjoying a good bottle of wine but, most of all, stomping through nature with my gorgeous Labrador, Watson (named by my son) enjoying the fresh air and our beautiful surroundings.  I start my days early in the fresh air and I cannot wait for spring to properly arrive to get back out over the fields! 

I may have started my pet portrait business later in life but the passion and dedication I deliver now is second to none.  My favourite part of every commission is the delivery - seeing a client’s face open their gift is the most joyous occasion, if not slightly nerve-racking at the same time!  The comments such as those below truly, truly make all the late nights worthwhile. 

“I cannot thank Verity enough for the beautiful portrait of our beloved boy. It was better than we could ever have imagined.  Highly recommend Painting Tails if anyone is looking to get a portrait done” – Jenny White

 “Just wanted to say a massive thank you for bringing Toby and Casper back home to my Mother and Father’s. They were absolutely over the moon, a roller-coaster of emotions shall we say. Even down to the sympathy card which was a nice touch. Thank you for projecting your skill to everyone, you’ve brought so much joy to my parents” – Nick Stephens

So, if you are new to Painting Tails, welcome and, if you are a seasoned regular then I can’t thank you enough for being part of this journey.

With love, VB x