What are your rates?

My rates depend on the size of the painting, the desired level of finish, the complexity of the composition, and the materials needed. This can mean anything between $50 to $1250 and above. I am happy exploring options and costs with you and can provide detailed breakdowns as needed. If cost is a driving factor, please reach out soon, as rates may be higher in the future.

Can you make a painting based on a photo?

Yes, absolutely! I can use a photo to create a classic painting, which will be focused on capturing the likeness and essence of any subjects. Whether it’s a photo of someone looking regal in fine clothing or a candid picture of a child dozing in their favorite chair, I can assure you they will look good in a painting.

You also do live sittings — what do those entail?

Live sittings are great fun, unique experiences, and produce really great results. I offer two options: a modern study and a traditional sitting. Both produce beautiful paintings, but the modern study works better if you are quite busy, because it only takes as long as a normal photo shoot. In it, we decide on a setting, I arrive to take reference photos which will help me complete a painting later on, and I also do a number of in-person sketches while sharing my process and discussing what you’d like to see in the final painting. It takes maybe an hour. Then I go back to my studio and complete a full painting.

A traditional sitting is done just like you’d imagine the old masters did it. Depending on the level of detail that you would like, it can take anywhere between 4-16 hours. It’s a totally timeless experience (and great if you have an audiobook you’d like to get through.)

What makes a great portrait painting?

A great portrait is the one you can display the longest before storing it until you want to take it out again. I am partial to subtle smiles and resting faces, light that casts good shadows along one side of the face, and moody backgrounds.

What materials go into your paintings?

I use acrylic paints, which are essentially pigments mixed into an emulsion of water and acrylic polymers. As the painting dries, the water evaporates, and only the pigment and resin remain. I then coat the painting in a clear varnish that ensures an even finish that will heighten the color and deepen any dark areas. These paintings last an extremely long time. I also like these paints because they’re non-toxic, which is important when your studio is built into your family home.

I have an idea, but it’s not for a portrait. Will you do it?

I would love to hear more. Like many portrait artists, I paint other things all the time!

When do you take payment?

For new buyers and large projects, I ask for a 50 percent deposit after I have sent you a bill-of-art-sale. The bill will clearly define the project and schedule that you have requested. When the project is complete, I will send photos and if they meet your expectations, I will ask for the final payment. Once received, I will send you a shipping receipt with a tracking number the same as any online order (or we can arrange an in-person delivery if I am local to you).

What payment forms do you take?

I can accept credit card, Venmo, PayPal, Apple Pay, and cash, and I can accept checks for large orders or from clients with whom I have an existing relationship. When I develop your art bill-of-sale, I will include the payment method that you prefer.

Shipping paintings… I have heard that can be pricey!

For anything under 12x16 inches (30x40 centimeters) it has been really cost effective, because I tend to recommend fine canvas panels that can be wrapped, insured, and shipped inexpensively. For larger paintings, shipping is an important cost factor. I will explore shipping options with you before starting any painting.

Do you ever discount your rates?

No. However, I am willing to hold my rates flat for you if you need some time to explore a painting. Otherwise I try to refresh my rates once or twice a year.

Do you offer a referral fee?

I don’t, HOWEVER, referrals help me manage my workload and therefore my rates. If you think a friend may be interested, or that you may be interested in a painting in the future, I am happy to reserve a place for you at current rates which can feel very good as they tend to increase over time!