PORTRAIT PROCEDURES

Every successful portrait is a collaborative effort between a client and artist. The first step is an initial consultation to help define the scope of a painting by discussing the subject, style, and setting the client has in mind. Next, a photographic session will be scheduled at a location suiting the concept of the painting. Following the signing of a contract and a 1/3 deposit, I`ll  shoot between 100-150 frames of a subject to use as references for the finished portrait. It is sometimes possible to work from photographs provided by a client, and in the case of posthumous work a clear basic reference photo, accompanied by supplemental photos is optimal.
Using client approved reference photos, I`ll compose the painting and present the client with preliminary sketches and when the composition is agreed upon the actual painting begins. I will provide progress reports along the way, generally per digitized files and e-mail, but clients are always welcome in the work room to see the actual canvas. Clear references should eliminate the need for sittings, but if a subject is available, I might request one near the end of the process.
When the painting is nearly finished, I will ask the client for a final reveiw. I always am willing to make minor adjustments to the work at this juncture as long as they do not alter the agreed pose, lighting or composition in any significant way, or cause a major change of expression. I am also happy to assist in choosing a frame for the portrait.  Six to twelve months after delivery of a piece, I'll be in touch to apply a final coat of varnish.

2022  Oil Portrait Fees
The prices and sizes quoted below are approximate and refer to work of average complexity and one subject. Elaborate backgrounds may incur an additional charge.  Additional subjects in the same composition will be billed at 75% of the first subject; children (under the age of 14) are priced ca. 30% less than adults and are slightly smaller. Small animals may be included in the composition at a rate beginning at $500., individually pet portraits begin at $850. for a ca. 14” x 18” canvas.  Additionally, I welcome inquiries about landscape commissions, either from photo references or plein aire.

CAMEO (head, neck to collar) 16” x 20”- $1500

HEAD & SHOULDERS ca. 20” x 24” - Starting at $2500.

3/4 LENGTH (includes hands) ca. 30” x 40” - Starting at $4000.  Please inquire about larger sizes.

FULL LENGTH - Child, 28" x 40", starting at $3000.; adults individually priced.

The above prices are for oil portraits on linen and sizes are approximate. Actual size will be determined by the composition. A non-refundable deposit of 1/3 the total price is required at the photo session, the remainder will be paid upon delivery of the portrait. Prices do not include framing, shipping or travel expenses out of a 100 mile radius.

Metalpoint and Other Portrait Drawings

     Pencil or silverpoint portraits are also available, either to accompany an oil portrait, or as individual pieces. Prices begin at $300. for a stand alone, ca. 8" x 10" (mat opening) pencil portrait, or $500. for a similarly sized silverpoint (head and neck) of a child; adult subjects priced slightly higher. Additional figures may be include if the size of the portrait allows; each additional figure is priced at 30% less than the first figure. Should you have something other than a head and neck pencil portrait in mind, please contact me to discuss your concept.

    Portrait drawings which accompany oil portraits are priced at half the previously stated prices, sometimes a client might wish to explore a secondary pose, or have a portrait for another family member.  Another format,  the oil sketch, is also available.  These pieces are smaller and looser, (see "Ann" in the "portrait" portfolio) than the formal portrait, executed on wood panel or linen, and can be completed much more quickly. They are priced at ca. 500. for a 9 x 12 sketch.