commission a portrait, a custom painting, or a drawing
Customized artwork makes an amazing gift. An anniversary, a wedding, a birth, or even a death. All of the following, regarding portrait commissions, also applies to pet portraits, as well as custom artwork (favorite landscapes, architectural studies...you name it.) Scroll down for general pricing. Please contact me directly for specific prices and more information.
It has really struck me how touched people are when they see a portrait of themselves or a loved one. There's often an initial shyness as they see themselves, or that person, reflected back so clearly and accurately- and then follows the inability to look away as they see through the eyes of the artist, with the awareness that an investment of hours and weeks and months has been made in observing them so closely. It is very fulfilling for everyone involved.
The commissioning process is simple, but it does take some advance planning. A drawing can be completed in as short as a week. This
is a less expensive option- which can be great for memorializing a time
and a place, without the investment of a painting (growing children,
for example). With care, drawings can last a very long time. Each oil portrait requires somewhere between 20 and 50 working hours, with drying time in-between. This means, realistically, at least a couple of months turnaround- depending on what other projects I have going on at the time. However, as I'm sure you've seen, an oil portrait will last for generations.
A quality photo is essential. I would love to have a meeting with the subject, and even to be able to take photos myself. This allows me to get a feel for the personality, as well as the actual “look” of the person. It also allows the person to be a part of the process
of having their story "captured", which is an exciting, once-in-a-
lifetime experience.
But a surprise can be wonderful, I know!
You may know the subject very well and have an idea of what you're trying to say about them (or to them). You may have already done the work of finding the perfect photo. Maybe it’s a picture that's been lurking in your drawer that makes you say, "that is so Mom". Or maybe it's a photo you know they love. Feel free to get creative, too!
In which case, you can
supply a picture. Keep in mind that it needs to be large enough that
all features are easily visible (also, including other reference photos
of the person is helpful if I will not get to meet them) and that lighting is very important. Certain things, like composition
and colors, can be modified- but
I know from experience that flatly lit, overly dark, out of focus, obscured, (etc.) photos do not
provide a good basis for a portrait. However, even if it's not ideal, we may be able to work with it. Also consider the colors, ambiance of the room that the portrait will ultimately live in, and the subject's style. I'll be happy to consult with you and help you select a picture.
You may send me digital photos by email (if you aren't sure how to do this, just let me know and I'll walk you through the process), or you can send me a CD or actual prints by mail. The larger the file/picture, the better. If you send me an original hard copy, I'll scan it into my computer and return the original to you.
Although accuracy is very important in a portrait, I'm
also a romantic. So, as I strive to capture the "real" person, I also
accentuate the beauty that I see.
An oil painting of one person on a 16 x 20 gallery-quality canvas with finished and painted edges: $900. Two people together: $1300.
A drawing of one person on a 12 x 18 paper (medium and paper color of your choice): $175. Two people: $250.
Other custom artwork prices vary depending on the subject and size required.
Keep in mind, this is a starting place. Less expensive options
would include using a smaller canvas, or a pet portrait. More expensive options would include a larger
canvas, more people, a frame, etc. Any framing or shipping charges are additional.
I require one third as a down payment. The balance is due when the painting is finished and your vision is fulfilled!
I can also create a customized gift certificate. This
works well if time is short, or if you'd like to give a great surprise and
then let the recipient be involved in the portrait process.
Let’s talk about what you have in mind! No obligation.
Not sure why to choose an oil painting versus a charcoal drawing? Not
sure what finished edges means? Want to see what a finished 16X20
canvas looks like?- Just ask! I'd love to even meet with you in person over a cup of tea, or a glass of wine. Otherwise, I'm very responsive and will return emails and phone calls promptly.
