Commissions

When painting a portrait, my style is rooted in the traditional oil painting methods of the old masters. This process is time-consuming as the painting evolves through several stages. It begins with initial drawings and underpainting, followed by the dead color stage, and then the first and second painting stages. Finally, various layers of glazing and fine detail are applied before finishing with a varnish.

The first step is to get in touch. We can discuss your initial ideas and requirements over email or phone. Alternatively, we can meet some where connivence. During our initial conversation, I will gather the following information:

• The sitter(s) to be painted
• Composition ideas (e.g., head and shoulders, half-length, full-length, background details)
• Canvas size and shape
• Whether the portrait will be painted from life or a photograph
• Potential dates for sittings and the approximate timescale for completion

After finalizing the brief, I will provide you with a quote and a client agreement detailing the full cost of the portrait and any agreed expenses.

Typically, I request a 25% deposit of the commission fee before starting the painting or prior to the first sitting. The remaining 75% is due upon completion of the painting.

Once you are satisfied with the quote and client agreement, we can schedule the first sitting at a convenient time for the sitter, or I can begin the painting if working from a provided photograph.