Groovy's Pet Portraits: a Q&A with Graham Gordon Art

The Glasgow-based artist and musician Graham Gordon, known as Groovy to some, creates expressive and characterful pet portraits alongside a wider body of work that includes landscapes, caricatures and large psychedelic paintings. After lockdown gave him the chance to step away from his day job, Graham began working as an artist and musician full time.

We spoke to Graham to learn more about his process, influences and the thinking behind his pet portraits…

Tell us a bit about your background? How did your pet portraiture come about?

My name is Graham Gordon, I’m a musician turned full-time artist based in Glasgow. I enjoy experimenting with different styles, including portraits, landscapes, caricatures, large psychedelic paintings and club posters. Most recently, I've been focusing on pet portraiture.

What mediums do you work in?

I work with pencils, charcoals, pastels and acrylics.

Do you have any formal training in the arts, or are you self taught?

I’ve always drawn since I was a kid. I’ve done a few life drawing classes at Glasgow School of Art, but I’m mostly self taught.

Do you draw inspiration from other artists? If so, who?

Some of my larger paintings can be similar in style to David Hockney.

Talk us through your creative process – how do you get to the finished article?

I start by working with the client’s needs, creating mood boards and colour palettes. Then I build the piece by working in the darks and lights before adding the details.

Is it difficult to capture their character?

Capturing the likeness is usually in the eyes or a perky ear.

As a musician, does music help you focus when painting? What do you usually listen to?

I’ve mostly got the radio on in the studio. Being a musician has helped with focus and attention to detail.

Your favourite pet portrait?

I enjoy doing portraits where I can capture a cheeky smile.

And the most difficult portrait you’ve painted so far?

Some are more difficult than others, especially when trying to get specific expressions right.

If you could paint any famous pet, past or present, whose would it be and why?

I think Robert Smith of The Cure has Irish Setters, I’d like to paint them.

How can someone commission you for a portrait?

The best way is to get in touch to discuss what you’re looking for, and we can take it from there. Get in touch via email or on Instagram.