If you prefer a portrait from life, the quickest option is a sketching session. It takes 2 hours, at the end of which I will have made 7-15 drawings. Some will be better than others! What people love about this type of commission is the essence of the subject captured in a quick line drawing. All of the drawings made during the session belong to you. Please visit the gallery of sketches.
If our meeting in person is not possible, then you can send me photographs. In this case it won't take much of your time, and the time it takes me to complete the work will depend on the medium, style and size of the portrait you choose.
In the case of a large detailed painting, the minimum time from start to completion is six months.
Yes, I do. The number of sittings required is between 1 to 15 depending on the size and style of the portrait. The sessions last around 2 hours.
Yes. A portrait painted from a photo can be made to look "just like a photograph" or I can give it a more "painterly" look if that's what you prefer.
Not really. All you have to do is make yourself comfortable and relax. Imagine you are having a chat with a friend. Occasionally, I will ask you to move slightly, or to look in a certain direction.
The price depends on the medium, style and size of the portrait. It is best if you discuss it with me. However, to give you an idea, here are some of the options:
Portfolio of Life Sketches: 10-12 sketches made in pencil on A4-size paper. Price per session £200.
Oil or acrylic sketch: The size of the painting is approximately 30x25 cm (12"x10"). The style is a lively, quick sketch capturing the essence. Prices start from £450
Small portrait in oils or acrylic: The size of the portrait is approximately 50x40cm or 20"x16". The style is a detailed study capturing the features and character of the sitter. Prices start from £1600
Large portrait in oils or acrylic: The size starting from 70x60 cm (28"x24") allows greater freedom of composition. Price for this type of commission is to be discussed.
Group portrait: The price of a group portrait is to be discussed.
The payment is made in two instalments: 1/3 of the price once we agree on commission details, and the rest on completion of the portrait.
One way around that is to work entirely from photographs. Alternatively, we can discuss my travelling to your location.
I work in painting media like oils, watercolour, acrylic, tempera, as well as in graphic media: pencil, ink, engraving, charcoal.
Yes, I had painted several posthumous portrait commissions. I use the photographs of the deceased person.
Ask your question about the process of commissioning a portrait in the comment box below and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
