What’s involved in commissioning a portrait painting?
Investing in a museum-quality portrait painting is a deeply personal and enduring way to capture the essence of a loved one, commemorate a significant individual, or celebrate a family's heritage. This page outlines the collaborative process involved in commissioning a portrait that will be treasured for generations to come.
1. Initial Inquiry and Connection:
The journey begins with your interest in commissioning a portrait. We encourage you to reach out through our contact form, email, or phone to express your initial ideas. This first step allows us to understand your vision, including:
Subject: Who is the intended subject of the portrait?
Size and Format: Do you have a desired size or orientation (e.g., head and shoulders, half-figure, full-figure)?
Desired Mood and Setting: What feeling or atmosphere do you envision for the portrait? Are there any specific settings or backgrounds you have in mind?
Timeline: Do you have any specific deadlines or timeframes for the completion of the portrait?
Budget Considerations: Understanding your budget expectations helps us tailor the process and discuss suitable options.
2. Consultation and Conceptualization:
Following your initial inquiry, we will schedule a detailed consultation. This crucial stage allows us to delve deeper into your vision and establish a strong foundation for the artwork. This may involve:
In-depth Discussion: We will discuss the subject's personality, character, and the story you wish the portrait to tell.
Reviewing Portfolio: You will have the opportunity to review our portfolio of past portrait commissions to assess our artistic style and quality.
Photographic Sessions (if applicable): For subjects who can sit, we may arrange one or more photographic sessions. These sessions are invaluable for capturing the nuances of their features, expressions, and overall presence. We prioritize creating a relaxed and comfortable environment to ensure authentic and natural references.
Reference Material: If the subject cannot sit in person (e.g., posthumous portraits), we will work closely with you to gather high-quality photographs and any other relevant reference materials. The clarity and detail of these references are paramount to achieving a lifelike and evocative portrayal.
Preliminary Sketches and Concepts: Based on our discussions and reference materials, we may create preliminary sketches or digital mock-ups to explore different compositions, poses, and lighting options. This allows for collaborative feedback and ensures we are aligned on the artistic direction.
3. Proposal and Agreement:
Once the concept, size, and complexity of the portrait are established, we will present you with a comprehensive proposal outlining:
Detailed Description of the Artwork: Including size, medium (oil on canvas), and a summary of the agreed-upon concept.
Timeline for Completion: Providing estimated milestones for different stages of the painting process.
Payment Schedule: Typically involving an initial deposit to commence work, with subsequent installments as key milestones are reached and final payment upon completion and approval.
Copyright and Usage: Clarifying the ownership and usage rights of the artwork.
Upon your review and agreement, a formal contract will be drawn up to protect the interests of both parties.
4. The Painting Process:
With the agreement in place, the meticulous and time-honored process of creating your museum-quality oil portrait begins:
Canvas Preparation: We utilize high-quality, archival-grade canvases that are carefully prepared to ensure the longevity and stability of the artwork.
Underpainting: The initial stages involve creating an underpainting, often in monochrome or a limited palette, to establish the composition, values, and proportions.
Layering and Glazing: Through multiple thin layers of oil paint, including the application of glazes, we build up the color, depth, and luminosity of the portrait. This traditional technique allows for subtle transitions and a rich, vibrant finish.
Attention to Detail: Throughout the process, meticulous attention is paid to capturing the unique characteristics of the subject, from their subtle expressions to the texture of their clothing.
Ongoing Communication: We believe in maintaining open communication throughout the painting process. We may share progress updates and images at key stages, allowing for your feedback and ensuring your vision is being realized.
5. Review and Approval:
Upon completion of the portrait, we will present it to you for your review and approval. This can be done in person, if feasible, or through high-resolution images and video conferencing. We value your feedback and are committed to making any minor adjustments necessary to ensure your complete satisfaction.
6. Final Delivery and Presentation:
Once you have approved the portrait, the final payment will be processed. We will then carefully prepare the artwork for delivery or arrange for professional installation, if desired. We can also discuss framing options that complement the portrait and enhance its presentation.
Investing in a museum-quality oil portrait is an investment in art, memory, and legacy. We are honored to guide you through this meaningful process and create a timeless masterpiece that will be cherished for generations.