Xena, 25” × 27”
Medium: Paint on acid-washed steel
Dimensions: 25" × 27"
Weight: 15 lbs.
Private Commission
Year: 2026
Xena was a Boxer whose fierce devotion to her family was matched only by her silly, affectionate nature. Profoundly protective of the people she loved, she could be watchful and commanding one moment and completely goofy the next. Doug captured that balance in her portrait, along with one of Xena’s most recognizable features—the distinctive heart-shaped marking on her upper lip. Rendered with careful attention to her expression and individual markings, the portrait preserves both the strength and playfulness that made Xena unforgettable.
Created To Honor Xena’s Fierce Loyalty And Playful Heart.
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.