Published on: Thursday 30 Apr 2026 at 10:41
Following the death of his wife, Sue, in February 2025, Doug Copeland has discovered a renewed purpose through his love of pet portraiture.
The 81-year-old from Clavering is now raising vital funds for St Clare Hospice – the charity that cared for Sue at the end of her life – by creating bespoke pastel portraits for proud pet owners.
“Ever since I was a lad, I have enjoyed creating art by painting and drawing, and portraiture became a particular interest of mine,” said Doug.
“Over the last 20 years or so I have concentrated on supporting Sue, my wife, in her various senior roles for the National Garden Scheme and I was part of her Essex team – raising much needed funds for nursing and caring charities in the country.
“Since Sue’s sad death, I have thrown myself back into art. I have found it to be both therapeutic and calming. It has really helped me cope with my grief.
“My family and I were so grateful for the incredible end-of-life care provided by St Clare Hospice for Sue. So, it got me thinking that perhaps I could support them by offering to paint pastel portraits of pets – primarily dogs and cats. I love doing them and it is so rewarding to think that I would be helping St Clare at the same time.”
One of Doug’s first commissions was from St Clare’s deputy CEO, Rosie Knowles, of her German Shepherd Bruce. Commissions for Doug’s pastel pet portraits start from £75 plus framing, with every penny raised being donated directly to St Clare Hospice.
St Clare’s relationship fundraising manager Ellie Gale said: “It was a privilege for our hospice team to care for Sue at the end of her life, and we’re incredibly grateful that Doug is now giving back to St Clare through his exceptional artwork. The funds raised from his pet portraits will help us be there for other families when it matters most.”
To commission a pet portrait in support of St Clare Hospice, please contact Ellie Gale at ellie.gale@stclarehospice.org.uk or call 01279 773734.