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The Portrait painter reacts, responds and analyzes to understand the individual beyond appearance and by observing details of facial expression, movement, gesture and clothing to capture the character and essence of one’s personality. A camera will record a moment in time while the painted portrait is a unique blend of physical appearance and inward spirit that is reflected creatively on canvas with color, light and shadow.
STEPS TO A PORTRAIT COMMISSION:
- First we will meet to discuss the specifics of your commission. While I can work solely from photographs, I do like to get acquainted with the subject and observe mannerisms and personality. Together we can select which clothing, props, and background setting will work best. We can discuss where the finished painting will be displayed which will impact some of the decisions to be made. At this time we will also discuss the price of the portrait and this will be based on size and complexity.
- In some cases, a photograph will have already been chosen. However, most of the time I prefer to photograph the individual. Afterwards, I will choose several photographs that I think present the best options for the portrait. Once we have discussed and decided on the pose, etc., I will ask you to look over a Commission and Sale Agreement that sums up our discussions. A nonrefundable deposit will be required at this time. For portraits $800 and under, a $200 deposit is required. For portraits $800 - $1800, a $350 deposit is required and anything over $1800 will require a $550 deposit.
- A very loose, sketchy underpainting will be done in black and white to set the pose, get a likeness, and establish the lights and darks.. We will meet so you can observe this stage of the painting and we can discuss any changes to the clothing, facial expression, hair, etc. I will usually mix some colors to record the subtle tones of complexion and hair before proceeding.
- Depending on size, complexity and number of subjects in the painting, the amount of time generally needed to complete the portrait is one to three months. Before finalizing the portrait, we will meet and observe the progress. At this time I may want to make some observations from life and may make some minor changes based on our discussions. Thereafter I will return to my studio and finalize. The portrait will be delivered with a frame that you will have the option to purchase.
- Here are some questions I will ask when we meet:
The Pose:
- sitting or standing
- inside or outside
- light or dark, traditional or contemporary, formal or casual
- subject looking directly at observer or otherwise
To determine coloration and intensity of light:
- Where do you plan to hang the portrait?
- Will this location have much exposure to light (and what type of light)?
- Do you want colors to match colors in a room?
- Do you want a traditional diffused background as you often see in traditional professional photography, or will you want the background of a room, garden, etc.
- Do you want particular objects in the painting such as a child’s favorite toy, special dress, jewelry, pets, anything with personal meaning to be included?
Rules can be broken of course, but if your are interested in a traditional style portrait, you should consider the following:
- Avoid a full frontal face (a slightly turned head is more appealing artistically).
- A closed mouth is better than an open smile.
- A contemplative look is very appealing.
- Avoid garish colors or loud prints in clothing
- Traditional and classically styled clothing will create a more timeless portrait.
- Colors that will not tire the eye are neutral tones such as black, brown, white, cream, navy, burgundy and beige.
- Pastels are pleasing for children.
- Simplicity is best because you want the focus to be on the individual, not the surroundings or elaborate detail of clothing unless it is a bridal portrait, uniform, or particular garment that expresses something significant about the individual.
- The smaller the painting the more simple it should be.
Remember:
- A more traditional diffused background, whether light or dark, and muted colors will create a more timeless piece of art that will last through generations without appearing dated.
- Outdoor portraits generally seem less formal but indoor portraits can be made less formal as well.
- There is a term used in art…”less is more”…simplicity is always best.
STANDARD PORTRAIT PRICES
These prices are based on a simple muted background and are subject to increase with complexity. The exact price will be determined at the time of our meeting!
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Single Figure
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Size
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Price Range
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Medium
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Head/Partial Shoulder
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11x14
12x16
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$500-700
$150
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Oil
Charcoal
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Head, Shoulders and Chest
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16x20
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$1,200
$350
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Oil
Charcoal
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Head to Waist
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20x24
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$1,500 and up
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Oil
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Three Quarter Figure
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20x24
22x28
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$1,800 and up
$2,000 and up
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Oil
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Full Figure
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24x30
24x36
Larger
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$3,000 and up
$3,200 and up
Special Quote
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Oil
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- For a pet to be included in the painting, I will quote a price after our initial meeting.
- For more than one separate, individual portrait within a family, a discount will be given on every portrait succeeding the first full-priced portrait, and I will quote the price with discount after our initial meeting.
- A $50 fee will be required for photographing the subject.
PET PORTRAIT PRICES
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Single Figure
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Size
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Price Range
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Medium
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3/4 Body or Head and Neck
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11x14
12x16
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$400
$150
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Oil
Charcoal
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3/4 or Full Body
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16x20
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$850
$350
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Oil
Charcoal
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Full Body
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20x24
and larger
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$1,000 and up
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Oil
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- A $50 fee will be required for photographing the subject.
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