Beginning
A portrait is a very personal thing, but hopefully you want to commission me because you already like my work as an artist. Perhaps you've seen my work in person at a show or online and would like to commission a piece that as unique, but still in my style. If so, then let me give you a little information on how the process usually proceeds.
|
Meeting |
It's always helpful to begin the process, where possible, with an informal, introductory meeting where we can discuss what your thoughts and ideas are for the piece you want me to create. It’s also a good opportunity for me to glean as much information as I can about the subject, their likes and dislikes, particularly in terms of colour etc. At this stage we would usually agree a date to shoot the reference photographs, or even do so on the day.
I could work from life, but in my experience the sitter usually ends up looking a little tired and bored, so in order to capture something fleeting and expressive of the subject I try to spend some time getting to know them over a relaxed and informal photo shoot in their own home or at my own. Occasionally I will work from someone else's photo references, but this would only be if the reference was adequate and would result in a good painting. I also regularly add or subtract elements to improve or inform the painting better, but all this is usually done in consultation with the client. So before any paint ever reaches the panel I always like to make sure we've had a good conversation about your requirements and ideas to make sure we're both agreed on a plan and you approve of the references I'm using. |
Starting |
After the reference photographs are taken and agreed upon by the client I'll begin work and keep you up to date on any progress and discuss any ideas I might have to improve or enhance the image with you. I try to keep you, the client, as involved as possible. After all we both want to end up with a piece that we enjoy.
Your painting usually takes a minimum of a three weeks, but often longer, so please make sure you leave plenty of time for the completion of the project. The more time I have, the more space I have to think and plan a better end result. |
Costing |
As I'm sure you appreciate, every portrait project is unique and tailored to fit each of your requirements and requests, but as a rough guide, commissions range from £500 for a very small 15cm x 21cm image to £3,000 and upwards for a 50cm x 40cm painting. All prices include photographic work and ongoing consultation.
|
Thank You