The idea of capturing the likeness of an individual in an artwork is not a new one. This concept has been popular through the ages. Commission a portrait painting and you have a lasting way of preserving memories that can be passed down through generations. However, it is important to choose a skilled artist who will do more than just produce a copy of a photograph.
One of the ways to see what an artist is capable of is to examine a portfolio of completed work. This gives an indication of style and shows what medium is worked in too, whether oils, pastels, watercolors or even pen and ink. You will instinctively be drawn to a particular medium and style that accords with your own tastes.
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.
A preliminary sketch is usually prepared for the client. This should give a good idea of what to expect from the final artwork. At this stage, it is possible for minor changes to be made. The client often pays a certain amount for this sketch and is allowed to keep it. Only then does the artist commence with the actual artwork.
If you think that commissioning portraits costs a great deal of money, you may be surprised. A small head portrait with a simple background can be reasonably priced and can make a wonderful gift for a loved one. Can be. Portraits can be kept for a lifetime and passed down to future generations, keeping memories alive.
One of the ways to see what an artist is capable of is to examine a portfolio of completed work. This gives an indication of style and shows what medium is worked in too, whether oils, pastels, watercolors or even pen and ink. You will instinctively be drawn to a particular medium and style that accords with your own tastes.
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.
A preliminary sketch is usually prepared for the client. This should give a good idea of what to expect from the final artwork. At this stage, it is possible for minor changes to be made. The client often pays a certain amount for this sketch and is allowed to keep it. Only then does the artist commence with the actual artwork.
If you think that commissioning portraits costs a great deal of money, you may be surprised. A small head portrait with a simple background can be reasonably priced and can make a wonderful gift for a loved one. Can be. Portraits can be kept for a lifetime and passed down to future generations, keeping memories alive.
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