How to commission a painting:
Send the Image:
The process to commission art from your photos is simple. Just email your photos of a pose you like or an expression you would like captured or a favorite scene). You also should decide which media and size you would like. While I can work off of physical prints or digital copies of your photos, digital is preferred. Once I have received your photos, we will discuss the media and size desired as well as the desired pose or any other details. I can help you with this as some subjects will look better in one media than another. I do not require any deposit to begin your commission.
My Process:
I begin with pencil sketches. The sketches are sent via email for approval before the final painting is started. As a painting progresses, I email photos of it for input and then make any desired adjustments. I welcome your feedback during this process. While I paint primarily in pastel, I also work in pencil, colored pencil, oil and acrylic. My prices vary based on image size, media, and any additional subject you would like included. Only when you are completely satisfied with the final piece will any money be exchanged. Payment options include PayPal, credit cards or check.
Timing:
I am often asked how long a painting will take to complete. The answer is it depends. The time it takes to complete a commissioned painting varies with the size, subject, the media and the time of year. The holidays can be quite busy, so I urge clients not to wait to order a painting intended as a holiday gift. (I do offer gift certificates for those last minute situations)
The larger the size and more complicated the subject the longer it will take. As far as media goes; colored pencil is time consuming as it requires layer upon layer of color and can take weeks to complete. An oil painting takes time to dry so it can take even longer. The fastest mediums would be pencil or pastel with which a single pet on plain a background can often be completed in a week.
Delivery
If the final painting is in pencil, colored pencil or pastel it will be presented with a mat and backer board in a clear bag. The clear bag is necessary to protect the work for transport to a framer ( I do not include framing). If the painting is an oil or acrylic painting this is not necessary.
If you are local (within a 50 mile range of my central CT studio) I would prefer to deliver my work in person. Nothing brings me a greater joy than seeing your reaction to a finished piece! I guarantee satisfaction, so I want be sure you are truly satisfied. If shipping is required, the cost of packing materials and shipping are added to the price. If the piece is shipped and you are not satisfied, I will cover the cost of return shipping. I am proud to say that I have not yet had a dissatisfied customer.