What medium will my portrait be created with and how does the process of commissioning work?
All my portrait work is created using soft and hard professional grade pastel or coloured pencil. I do not use fixative as this effects the final colour quality of the pastel. I work on a selection of fine art pastel and pencil papers including Pastel Mat, Velour, Bristol and specialist sand paper. This allows me to select a material to best compliment the animal I am drawing. All portraits are bevel edge mounted in a colour of your choice and included in the price. Framing is optional. I use a professional, Yorkshire based framing company, which enable me to pass on my substantial artist discount to my customers. This ensures you receive a high quality frame to compliment your portrait without paying full retail prices and ensures your original artwork is protected immediately and ready to hang in your home or gift to another person.
The most important step to creating the perfect portrait is a clear photograph which shows the detail in fur and their eyes. I also like to find out more about the animals personality from you. I have included some advice below on how to get the photo you will need if you do not have any already. In the event you would like me to take the photographs for you, this can be arranged for an additional small fee (limited to a 15 mile radius of my home in Yorkshire).
How do I commission a portrait? I take commissions worldwide.
1. Send clear photographs of your pet/pets via email
2. Work with the artist to chose the photograph and composition to best capture your pet
3. Pay a deposit of £40
4. Opportunity for regular previews throughout the process
5. Final preview and balance payment on completion
6.Choose a frame to compliment your artwork
Taking the photograph
1. If possible use a digital camera. If using a mobile phone camera please download the photo and check when you zoom in or enlarge it that you can see detail and that it is not blurred.
2. Take the photographs down at the level of the animal so that they are face on and ensure all their features are in the photograph including ears, sides of head and neck. Take lots! They can easily be deleted.
Tip: If you can get someone to stand behind you with a treat (not to the side or they will look away and you will get more hand and treat shots than animal photos!) they should then be looking towards you and the camera. Also try not to stand in bright light which will effect fur colours.
If your pet/equine is no longer with you, we can have a look at your existing photographs to ensure you have a reference picture we can use.
Can I have a print of my original portrait for family?
Yes, If you would like a print of the portrait this can be arranged for an additional fee. I use a Yorkshire based printing service specialising in the Giclee technique on quality archival paper.
Portrait framing I work with a Yorkshire based framing company for clients choosing to have their portrait framed at a very competitive rate. This can be discussed on enquiry. Prices vary on size of portrait, frame size and frame material. If you choose to frame your portrait independently it is advised that you keep your portrait packaged as it arrives to prevent damage until framed. Frames are all professionally finished and come in a wide range of colours, woods and metals depending on style preference and budget. For portraits up to 12" x 16", frames on average range from £25-£60. More accurate prices can be discussed when discussing your portrait size and preference of frame material/size.
How do I care for my portrait?
Prior to framing, ensure you do not touch or blow the painting. Although your portrait will be on high quality pastel paper, using professional pastel, it can still move if directly handled. Once framed your painting will be secure.
I provide a free mounting service with all commissioned work. In doing so I can ensure your painting comes in a reverse bevel mount preventing pastel particles sticking to the glass of your frame. This could occur if your portrait is hung in a sunny spot where humidity could cause moisture development within the glass of your frame. I will work with you to choose your preferred mount colour and size.