Commissioning a Portrait

Commissioning a portrait painting is a simple process. The first step is to meet with the artist to discuss your preferences. The key thing to decide is whether you’d like an oil painting or a pastel. You’ll also choose the size for your painting, and specify whether you want the likeness to include the subject’s hands. You can also select an appropriate background, such as one that expresses something about the person being painted. These factors, taken together, determine the cost of the painting.

Ideally, portraits are painted from life. However, for many people (especially children) it is difficult to sit for the amount of time required to paint an accurate portrait. Instead, the artist will schedule one or more visits to photograph the subject. Together the artist and subject will choose the pose and expression that best represents the person. Don encourages his clients to review preliminary studies as the work progresses. When all concerned are satisfied with an initial sketch, Don will then begin work on the final piece. A deposit of 25% is required at this point.

With every client, Don strives for 100% satisfaction. If you wish to see your portrait "in progress," you can view the work by prior arrangement or Don can e-mail you photos as he creates it. Payment in full for the final picture is due upon completion.

Click here to schedule a portrait consultation with Don.