A Memorial Tribute to Fritz: Capturing the Spirit of a Scruffy Soul

Enzie Shahmiri
2026-02-23T14:27:23-08:00

A heartfelt look at the creation of Fritz’s memorial portrait. This 8x10 oil painting captures the unique "scruffy" charm of a beloved companion through rich texture and vibrant colors, serving as both a personal tribute and a beautiful piece of home decor.

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The Heart of the Piece

There is a unique kind of pressure and honor that comes with painting a memorial portrait. Fritz was a dog who was dearly loved, and following his recent passing, I was commissioned to create this 8x10 inch oil painting as a surprise gift for his owner.

When I began this project, I was told that Fritz had a distinctively "scruffy" look. As an artist, those are the details I live for. Rather than smoothing him out, I wanted to lean into that character. I used thick, deliberate brushwork to add texture to his fur, ensuring that when his owner touches the canvas, they can almost feel the personality of the dog they knew so well.

Artistry Meets Decor

While capturing a likeness is the primary goal, I also want my portraits to stand alone as beautiful pieces of art. After careful consideration, I decided to punch up the colors in the background and surrounding elements. By enhancing the floral and landscape tones, the white of Fritz’s coat is beautifully framed and "pops" off the canvas.

The result is a piece that serves two purposes: it is a deeply personal tribute to a best friend, and a vibrant, professional oil painting that adds a touch of life and color to any room.

Rest in peace, Fritz. It was a joy to bring your scruffy, spirited likeness to life.