How to commission Art for the Holidays - 5 things you need to know

Artists vary in their approach to commissioning a portrait.  Here is some information for you about how I proceed with a portrait commission.

1) Time
How long does it take to paint a commissioned portrait? Well I'm glad you asked. The time a commission painting takes depends greatly on the scope of work; medium chosen, how much detail, size, etc. Generally speaking it takes about 3 - 4 weeks.

As we approach the holidays it gets busy quickly. By November there usually is a backlog into the next year.  Since my work is detailed, I don't want to rush on your special holiday gift. If you are reading this after the Christmas deadline, I would love to offer a gift certificate toward a future portrait for your loved one's gift. Then after Christmas we can all talk about what exactly he or she would like for their portrait gift. Sometimes that actually works out better because the recipient can be a part of the decision making, such as the size, what medium, clothing details etc.

2) Deadline
In order to complete your portrait on time, my deadline for scheduling is November 1. That will insure that your gift is delivered in time for the holidays. 

3) Cost  
My portraits start at $600 for a charcoal/graphite head & shoulders portrait, as pictured below.  Color portraits start at $950 for a head & shoulders portrait (example pictured above).

4) Reference Photos
My preference are photos in natural light.  No flash please.  You can e-mail your photos to me or I can take them if you are local.

5) Shipping
Don't worry about shipping - it is free! 

It all begins with a conversation to start your perfect portrait.
314-409-7740 

For more information on commissioning a portrait