COMMISSIONING A PORTRAIT

 
 
 

PORTRAITS

A Relaxed Approach

A painted portrait can capture the atmosphere of a moment in time or represent a full and interesting life, becoming a precious family heirloom for future generations. If you are contemplating capturing your children, marking a special birthday or anniversary, a career or special event in a unique way, a portrait could be the personal gesture you are looking for.

My approach is relaxed – sitters tell me they have found being painted to be a fascinating and enjoyable experience, even those who were initially a little unsure. Everyone is uniquely interesting and I enjoy the thrill of capturing the essence of an individual in paint. 

This is the process.

We discuss the type of portrait you’d like so that I can give you a firm estimate. To get an understanding of what you’re interested in, these are the questions I’ll be asking:

  • Roughly what size portrait would you like?

  • How many people will be in the portrait?

  • Will the portrait be head and shoulders, a half-length, or a full-length?

  • Will it be an indoor or outdoor portrait?

  • What kind of clothes would you like to wear and are there personal items you would like to have included?

  • Shall I come to you or you come to me? (I am based in Somerset and in London but will travel almost anywhere).

  • I work within the client’s budget whilst still accommodating their wishes. When the price is agreed, a schedule of sittings can be arranged.

Sitting for a portrait may seem daunting, but it’s informal and relaxing. Once the pose has been decided I can commence painting. I am happy to chat or work in silence or listen to music or the radio. Using oils, I like to work quickly for the comfort of the sitter and to keep the painting looking fresh. Each sitting is around 2 - 3 hours with breaks. As I am a fast painter, around 3 sittings (for a standard 3 quarter length portrait) is usually sufficient but if time is short I take photos so that I can continue working back in my studio.

BIOGRAPHICAL PORTRAITS

A popular portrait format is to be painted at work or at home surrounded by the paraphernalia of the subject's daily life. 

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This style is particularly good for reflecting on a career or documenting a specific interest or way of life. This type of painting can make a great celebration or retirement gift.

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HOUSE PORTRAITS

I also paint house or garden portraits which are particularly popular with people who wish to remember a favourite home.

The Rectory

To see other examples of work, view my portrait gallery.

 
 

Price

Due to the individual nature of each portrait, prices are negotiable and I try to be as flexible as possible. Size of canvas, number of figures, amount of detail, whether it is done from life or photos and travel expenses will determine cost. Contact me to discuss your wishes and get a quote.

Approximate prices:

£1000 - £1200 for a head and shoulders

£1500 - £2000 for 3 quarter portrait with hands and background

£2500 for full figure

£2500-£3500 for a couple.

Travel

I’m able to travel to sittings in the UK or abroad (all destinations considered), especially important if the subject wants to be portrayed at home or in their workplace.

Painting from Photographs

I am happy to work solely from good quality clear photos for posthumous portraits, if the subject is not available for sittings or if the painting is to be a secret surprise.

Working from photographs can keep costs down too.

 
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Painting Sue Barker during Sky Portrait Artist ‘23 (Heat 4)

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I can also paint a favourite house, garden or landscape from life or from clear photos.

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