Commissioned Portraits

My objective as a portrait artist is always to create a memorable, personalized work of art. I’ve always enjoyed painting and drawing portraits both as a creative endeavor and a technical exercise.

To that end, my works are more than just a copy of a person’s photograph. They are a capture of their personality; the sparkle in their eyes, the quirkiness of their smile, an emotion or a mood. My approach is to bring the subject to life in a way that a photograph can’t, so that it looks so alive that you want to reach out and touch the person (but please don’t touch the pastel paintings. They will smudge!). I achieve this effect through various linear hatching techniques, blending, transparent additives, and the extensive layering of shadow and color. The end result is an image that looks more alive than any photograph ever could.

Traditional Portrait (Acrylic or Pastel)

This format that has withstood the test of time. Working from a source photo, this is a traditional rendering of the subject will full attention to details in lighting, skin complexion and translucence, reflections, shadow, and color saturation.

Duo Portrait (Acrylic or Pastel)

Duo Portraits are a more unique format that superimposes one image of a person on top of another. These are done from two images that you and I agree on, typically with the idea of capturing two different expressions. For all intents and purposes, this process involves creating two portraits, one serving as a background to the other.

Dynamic Portrait (Acrylic)

These vibrant and dramatic portraits are highly creative interpretation of the subject. Give me a (preferably) expressive photograph and I will put my own artistic energy and flair into it. Colorful and intense, these portraits are all about personality and emotion.

Pricing & Requirements

Pricing starts at $2.75 per square inch for a single head and are adjusted per additional head. A 20%, non-refundable deposit is required.

Pricing Includes:

  • 30-60 minute consultation - We discuss and agree upon a source photo, medium, dimensions

  • Professional matting for pastel paintings - single color, single layer with acid free backing; All materials are archive quality. Additional layers and options are extra. Acrylic paintings include a professional grade, deep edge cotton or linen canvas with fully wrapped side and back edges.

REQUIREMENTS:

  • 1 X (or 2 X, for Duo portraits) high quality images, either digital or physical. The size can vary, but the photo needs a minimum level of detail. This can be discussed during the consultation.

  • Time - Please understand that these portraits take time. I typically spend 20+ hours planning, sketching, laying out, and painting these. I also use premium, professional grade, archival quality materials. I typically need 2-3 weeks to complete each project, depending on the size and number of people in the painting.