Elise & Steven, 22" x 27"
Medium: Paint on acid-washed steel
Dimensions: 22" x 27"
Weight: 15 lbs.
Private Commission
Year: 2026
Elise & Steven share a bond that began the moment Steven was brought home as a baby. A loving Shar-Pei and Pit Bull mix, Elise quickly earned the nickname "nanny dog" for her constant devotion to the newest member of the family. Rarely far from his side, she became a familiar presence in nearly every photograph of Steven's childhood. This portrait captures one of those precious early moments together, preserving the beginning of a friendship that would grow alongside Steven for years to come. Doug recreated the pair on steel as a tribute to Elise's gentle, protective nature and the extraordinary love she had for her family.
Created To Celebrate Elise & Steven And A Bond That Began With Love.
About the Medium
Every Slater Design Studios portrait is hand-painted on acid-washed steel, making each piece completely one of a kind. The natural oxidation, patina, and texture of the steel become part of the artwork itself, creating depth and character that cannot be replicated on canvas or in print.
Unlike a traditional painting, the surface is constantly changing with the light. As you move through the room or as the time of day changes, different colors and textures emerge from the steel, giving the artwork a subtle sense of movement and life.
Many portraits also feature handcrafted three-dimensional metal elements. These details are designed specifically for each commission and transform the artwork from a painting into a sculptural tribute.
No two portraits are ever exactly alike—and that's exactly the point.