More Than a Portrait: Interpreting Memories in Glass

This commission began with photographs of Shadow and a request for four engraved wine glasses. The discussion established which details should be carried into the design.

A Favourite Photograph

Shadow had recently passed away. A close friend commissioned the glasses as a gift for his owner.

The chosen photograph showed Shadow wearing a blue hoodie printed with the words We Believe In The Power Of Love. His expression and the wording were the elements retained for the engraving.

The supplied photograph became the reference for the artwork.

Looking Beyond the Photograph

The hoodie occupied a substantial part of the image. Its shape competed with the portrait, while the printed message was to remain part of the composition.

The clothing was removed from the artwork and the wording repositioned beneath the dog's portrait. This gave the likeness and inscription separate, clearly defined areas.

Preparing Artwork for Glass

The photograph was assessed for contrast, detail and composition, then redrawn for the available engraving area on the wine glass.

Linework, scale and spacing were adjusted so the portrait and wording would remain clear in engraving.

From Memory to Gift

The approved design was sandblast engraved onto four wine glasses, each carrying Shadow's portrait and the words from the hoodie beneath it.

Studio Example

The finished composition retains the expression and wording from the photograph, with the background and clothing removed and the message placed below the portrait.