Commissioning a Portrait

Where possible, I prefer to spend some time observing and photographing the “Model”. I feel meeting the animal is an important element of every portrait as photographs alone rarely capture his or her character. However, if this is not possible, I can use your photographs and video recordings.

All my work is freehand. When working in pastel, I work on a museum board with a pastel ground.  For commissions in oils, my canvases are made to measure.

Before undertaking a commission:

        A meeting is held with you to discuss ideas and composition

        A time is arranged to observe and take photographs

        Appropriate photographs are selected

        The size and medium (pastels or oils) and price is agreed

        An appropriate background is chosen for the finished picture

        If needed, a sketch may be prepared before the portrait is started

        Timescale is agreed

For a group portrait, I use several photographs of each individual animal to create an initial sketch for your approval.

Prices for a painting depend on size, medium, subject and background. Commissions can be framed or mounted to your preference and can be delivered or, if preferred, collected from the studio.

Please do give me a call to discuss any commission you may have in mind.