Sunday, April 27, 2014

Why To Commission A Portrait Painting

By Essie Osborn


Portraits that capture the character and individuality of a person can help preserve precious memories and be passed down to future generations. If you commission a portrait painting, the decision as to which artist to choose becomes very important. Every credential of the artist such as training, skill and experience needs to be taken into consideration.

Examining a portfolio of work done by the artist is one way to determine skill and experience. This also reveals the particular style of the artist. You will soon be able to see whether the style is one you admire or not. You may also prefer an artist who works in a particular medium. Many mediums like pastels, charcoal, oils and water colors are used in portraiture and artists often choose to combine mediums.

Through the ages, many famous individuals have been captured in portraits. These portraits were so skilfully done that the character of the person is conveyed. Many of them were done by artists trained in the classical tradition and the individuals had to sit for hours. Portraiture has changed over the years, particularly with the introduction of photography. There is no longer a need for extensive sittings.

Looking at the training and experience of the artist is important. All of the great masters studied their art and classical academic training was considered essential. An ability to draw from life is often a good indicator of experience and talent. Some artists create real life sketches at sittings. Others prefer working from their own photographs, taken in a detailed photographic session. Often a combination of both real life sketches and photographs are used.

Price is another important consideration. However, considering that such a commission is often a once in a lifetime experience, you may have to look further than just the price tag. You can save yourself money by choosing an artist who can make an adequate copy of a photograph. However, you might as well just have the photograph enlarged. Most artists are prepared to negotiate when it comes to cost.

Various details such as the size of the work and the background chosen will also obviously influence the price. Sizes can vary from a small head only piece to a full length portrait. The background may be a simple, abstract one or a more complex scene related to the sitter. Once all the details have been settled, a contract is drawn up and signed. Part payments are usually required to cement the deal.

A preliminary sketch is usually made so that the client can have some idea of what the end product will look like. At this stage it is still possible for the client to suggest minor changes. Once this has been settled, the artist proceeds with the painting itself. Some artists like to involve the client intimately at all stages of progress whilst others prefer no further involvement until the work is finished.

Commissioning an experienced and skilled artist will obviously cost more than just hiring someone to copy a photograph. The extra expense is usually worthwhile as such an artist is able to use tonal values and harmonies of color to bring out individuality and character. You will own a painting that you will be proud to pass down to future generations.




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