3/02/2014

What To Consider When You Commission A Portrait Painting

By Leticia Jensen


Portraits were very popular at a certain time in history, with artists capturing likenesses of individuals in artworks that are still seen today. Many individuals are not aware that they can easily commission a portrait painting today from the numerous artists doing such work, including those found at online websites. Artists use different methods and mediums and have varying levels of skill, so it is important to choose wisely.

Your choice of an artist will largely depend on the fact that you consider him or her to be skilled at what they do. You do not want to end up with an artwork that is merely a copy of a photograph. A true artist will capture more than just the likeness. Artists also work in oils, charcoal, watercolors, gauche and other mediums. On examining the portfolios of artists, you will inevitably prefer the style and medium used by one artist above another.

In the past, the artist relied on the subject to sit for hours in a particular pose so his or her likeness could be captured. This is no longer the case today with the advent of photography. Varying methods are now used. There are still artists who prefer to work from real life. They make quick studies and sketches of the individual and several sessions may be required. Others arrange a photographic session, taking a number of photographs to work from. They may only require a sitting right at the end to make some final adjustments.

Sizes of portraits can vary from a small one of only a head to a full length one. It is also possible to do just the head and shoulders, or include the arms and hands too. The size depends largely on the location in which it will hang. Full length portraits need to be placed in large rooms or they are overpowering. Smaller portraits are more suited to the smaller rooms and to giving as gifts.

Backgrounds can be very different, depending on the preference of the client. You may want the individual to be posed with a background scene you associate with them. You may prefer to select a really simple background to reduce costs. The clothing worn by the individual can also influence costs as more elaborate clothing takes more time to paint.

The artist and client have to negotiate various details and come to an agreement acceptable to both parties. This needs to be spelled out in a contract and signed. Most artists require some payment upfront to confirm and this can be anything from a third to half of the total amount.

Finally, the artist can get to work on producing a preliminary painted sketch. This is presented to the client and helps them to visualize what the final artwork is going to look like. They are able to make certain minor changes at this stage if required. The artist charges for this sketch which is kept by the client.

People are often unaware of the price of portraits, thinking that they are very expensive. This is true of some but not of all of them. Price depends upon factors like size, background, medium used, clothing worn and many other details. A small painting of the head of the individual against a simple background is not that expensive and it makes a wonderful gift for someone you care for that can be passed down through generations.




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