Beginning the process

I work mainly from photographs, so we don't need to live in the same state to work together. I prefer, when it's feasible, to take the photographs myself, so that my need for detail, composition and lighting are met through high resolution, high quality digital photos. You are more than welcome to email me your photograph, if you would like me to give you my best evaluation and recommendation of it as a source photograph for a portrait painting. But please realize that these snapshots don't always meet my needs as an artist.

I also prefer photos that reveal your personality and that emphasize you and not the background. Therefore, unless a particular landscape or still life background expresses in some way your personality, lifestyle or profession, I prefer to keep it simple or avoid it altogether, so that the focus remains where it belongs.

Photos can be taken at any setting you request. I can help you evaluate the photos you have on hand, or assist your photographer in providing me the kinds of images that are best for portraiture.

How much will my portrait cost?

You determine the price since you choose the size. All of my portraits are painted with the highest quality pastels and museum quality sanded papers or boards. I will ask for a 30 per cent of the total cost, non-refundable deposit at the time the image is chosen. Please see the "Prices" section for a list of sizes and costs.

Review

When the image is near completion, I will ask you to review it, either in person or on the Internet, to make sure you're satisfied with the likeness. 

Delivery

Portraits will be delivered in consultation with you. In general you can expect your portrait to be completed 3 to 4 months from the sitting date.

 Prices

head / shoulders 13 x 19 - $800

half to three-quarters figure with hands 18 x 24 to 19 x 27 (plain background) - $1200

half to three-quarters figure with hands 18 x 24 to 19 x 27 (detailed background and/or fabric) - $1800

three-quarters to full figure, larger than 19 x 27 - $2300 (more if much larger)

three-quarters to full figure, larger than 19 x 27 (detailed background/fabric) - $2800 (more if much larger)

All framing, taxes and shipping expenses are in addition to the prices listed above. Additional figures on the same paper might not be discounted. Please contact Carol for information on additional sizes and options.