The painting process begins with a meeting to discuss exactly what you want the portrait to convey -
Outdoors, indoors, formal, casual and so forth.
Do you want it to be a solo portrait, or perhaps with a pet? More than one person?
Do you want the person to be looking directly to the viewer, or away? What emotion do you want to employ?
These all seem like simple questions, yet are very important.
Once the discussion has been had, I will take multiple photographs in varying poses and lighting situations.
Many classic portraits use propping or a situation to enhance the intention. For example - if you want a children's
portrait, they may be a seated with their favorite pet - or two children together - or a parent and child... etc.
We then go through the images and decide on the desired approach.
I will present a pencil sketch within a week, allowing for any adjustments -
The sketch can be presented in person or electronically transferred.
​
The final painting stage begins. This is usually a 3-4 week process. The timing also is relative to the complexity
of the painting ( this is usually worked out up front ).
​
The progress of the painting can be shown at the halfway stage - a color electronic image is provided.
​
The final piece is delivered - unframed. You should allow a good month for sufficient drying and framing. I will also discuss timing for the final varnish application.
The drawing process begins with a meeting to discuss exactly what you want the portrait to convey -
Outdoors, indoors, formal, casual and so forth.
Do you want it to be a solo portrait, or perhaps with a pet? More than one person?
Do you want the person to be looking directly to the viewer, or away? What emotion do you want to employ?
These all seem like simple questions, yet are very important.
Once the discussion has been had, I will take multiple photographs in varying poses and lighting situations.
Many classic portraits use propping or a situation to enhance the intention. For example - if you want a children's
portrait, they may be a seated with their favorite pet - or two children together - or a parent and child... etc.
We then go through the images and decide on the desired approach.
I will present a pencil sketch within a week, allowing for any adjustments -
The final drawing is delivered in 2 to 3 weeks - depending on complexity
​
The drawing is done on Arches hot press archival paper and sprayed with fixative to avoid
smudging or damage - this also to protect the artwork and sustain its longevity.
Pricing and timing are based on a few key things:
1. I will always provide clear agreement on price and timing upfront. I will try to work with a specified budget!
2. Size of the piece. For example - a head and shoulder portrait at a normal size of 16x20"
is more affordable and can be done in a shorter period than that a full body portrait, or a portrait with a pet,
or multiple figures.
3. Good photography is important. If possible I will take images, but can work from a good photograph
or multiple photographs.
5. An agreed upon image(s)/approach is key.
6. A live meeting and sitting is preferred. It helps me get to know the person (or pet), and
allows me to grasp what you want to achieve! Understanding 'personality' and striving to achieve
this is crucial to the success of the piece.
​
I am happy to have a conversation via email or on the phone to discuss anything.
​
The painting process begins with a meeting to discuss exactly what you want the portrait to convey -
Outdoors, indoors, formal, casual and so forth.
Do you want it to be a solo portrait, or perhaps with a pet? More than one person?
Do you want the person to be looking directly to the viewer, or away? What emotion do you want to employ?
These all seem like simple questions, yet are very important.
Once the discussion has been had, I will take multiple photographs in varying poses and lighting situations.
Many classic portraits use propping or a situation to enhance the intention. For example - if you want a children's
portrait, they may be a seated with their favorite pet - or two children together - or a parent and child... etc.
We then go through the images and decide on the desired approach.
I will present a pencil sketch within a week, allowing for any adjustments -
The sketch can be presented in person or electronically transferred.
​
The final painting stage begins. This is usually a 3-4 week process. The timing also is relative to the complexity
of the painting ( this is usually worked out up front ).
​
The progress of the painting can be shown at the halfway stage - a color electronic image is provided.
​
The final piece is delivered - unframed. You should allow a good month for sufficient drying and framing. I will also discuss timing for the final varnish application.
​
- Please note - I only work in Oil, Pencil or Pastel.
Pastel is Dry Pastel.