Former Disney Animator Opens Manahawkin Pet Portrait Studio

MANAHAWKIN, NJ — Frank DiGregorio has animated for classic Disney films and Nickelodeon programming. Now the Manahawkin-based artist wants to paint your pet.

DiGregorio launched Animal House Portraits this week, offering hand-painted oil portraits of dogs, cats, horses and other pets.

"My goal is to give pure happiness for every client that receives a professionally painted portrait," DiGregorio said. "I attain this essential goal by capturing the subject's uniqueness, individual essence, personality and spirit."

Check out the artist's credentials. The South Jersey native attended art school in Florida and spent years as a portrait and caricature artist. Then Walt Disney Feature Animation Recruited him.

DiGregorio served as a contributing animator for Disney films such as "Lilo & Stitch" and "Brother Bear." He also worked on projects such as the "Lion King" Imax, the "Pocahontas" DVD and animated short "The Little Matchgirl." Since Disney, DiGregorio has animated for Nickelodeon and in the film and animation department at the School of Visual Arts in New York City.

The artist paints portraits from your photographs. Here are his tips for taking great photos of your pets. DiGregorio will complete your ordered pet portrait usually within seven to 10 business days, depending on demand. Then you will receive a finished painting for your confirmation. Upon approval, he will ship your finished painting to you in the next couple days.

For more information, contact 732-200-2781 or email animalhouseportraits@gmail.com.

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