AN East Renfrewshire artist has told how he has his pet dog to thank for following a life-changing career path.

Robert Barr worked as a tiler for most of his life but was in between jobs when he decided to use his artistic skills to draw a portrait of his American bulldog Bella.

The drawing soon gained many admirers, leaving Robert convinced he could make a living by doing similar portraits for other pet owners.

Less than two years later, his work is now in big demand, with America proving to be one of his most lucrative markets as he advertises his services online.

Robert, 34, told the Barrhead News: “I did an HNC [Higher National Certificate] in Fine Art at college but, after that, I went back into tiling.

“When we moved house, I ordered some new drawing gear. I’d always drawn portraits of people and it wasn’t really taking off but then I drew my dog Bella and things just exploded. That was about 18 months ago.”

Around 80 per cent of orders received by Robert come from America.

“Bella is an American bulldog, so I think that’s how my work got popular over there,” said Robert.

“When I first drew her, I was inundated with requests from other folk who wanted their dogs to be drawn.

“I actually heard from a lot of people that they had paid to have their dog drawn before and, when they got the portrait, it looked nothing like them.

"People on my page are very loyal. One customer has ordered 13 portraits.”

Robert said some of his most rewarding work involves producing portraits of much-loved pets who have passed away.

He added: “One portrait I did was a gift for someone who had lost their dog and they loved it so much they burst into tears.

“I get a lot of pride from doing what I do.”

Robert, who has held down a variety of jobs in the past, admits being able to make a living by letting his art take centre stage is a dream come true.

With the help of his wife Rachel, he has been able to build a fanbase of thousands online.

Robert, from Neilston, said: “I’ve had about 25 jobs over the years but this is the one I feel most comfortable in.

“I don’t feel any pressure because it’s something I love doing. Before, if I had a kitchen or bathroom floor to tile, I’d be stressing but this has made a much better life for me.

“I was asked two weeks ago to do a tiling job and it was the first time I’ve had to knock it back. The drawing has taken over now.”

The Barrhead News has teamed up with Robert to give away a free portrait of a lucky reader’s pet dog.

To enter, just send your best photograph of your pooch, along with a message telling us the funniest thing they’ve done, to the Barrhead News Facebook page.

We will then join forces with Robert to pick the winner.