What is your commission process? 
Planning and creating successful commissions involves collaboration between the artist and the client. The process begins with a consultation, which can take place in person or over the phone. Once we’ve had our consultation, the next steps are generally the same, with minor variations depending on whether it’s a portrait, landscape, architectural piece, or still life.

PHOTO SESSION:
The next step is to schedule a time and place to meet with the subject, if applicable. This session allows me to understand the subject’s unique characteristics, take my own reference photos, and make notes. While I can work from existing photographs under certain circumstances, I prefer to take my own reference photos. This process enables me to study the subject and capture images that will yield the best results. Throughout this process, we will collaboratively develop a shared vision of the final artwork, allowing for any necessary adjustments to decisions made during our initial consultation. Once we agree on this shared vision, a final price will be established, and a deposit of 30% of the total price will be required to start the commissioned artwork. 

COMMISSION CREATION:
I begin work on the commission using the finest materials to ensure that the artwork is of heirloom quality. My creative process starts with studies, which help me explore and refine artistic elements such as composition, values, and color. I will share my studies with you and make adjustments as needed. Additionally, I will keep you updated on my progress throughout the creation process and reach out if I need any further input. 

DELIVERY:
From the time of the deposit, commissions typically take 4-6 weeks to complete, depending on their complexity. If you are local, you can visit my studio to see the finished painting in person, or we can schedule a personal delivery time. Otherwise, I usually email a digital photo to my clients to confirm the completion of the artwork. The remaining balance of the portrait fee is due upon delivery.

What is your pricing? 
The table of base sizes and prices listed here is for the artwork only. Additional charges may apply for subject complexity, background detail, and the number of subjects in a portrait. Base fees do not include travel expenses, framing, state sales tax, or shipping. 

If you are interested in commissioning a painting, here are some questions you should be prepared to answer during our initial consultation:
1. What is the occasion for commissioning this painting?
2. Who or what is the painting of?
3. What is your budget?
4. What size are you considering?
5. Do you know where it will hang?
6. When do you need it finished?

Recommendations for Commissioning a Portrait as a Surprise:
Consider “surprising” the recipient with a card showcasing my work, along with a description of the portrait that will be created. Typically, the person being depicted appreciates being involved in the creative process!