Commission Process

 

The Commission Experience

      Every portrait commission begins with a thoughtful conversation centered around the client’s vision, emotional connection to the artwork, and the atmosphere they hope the portrait will preserve for generations to come.

      Because each portrait is deeply personal, I approach every commission with great care, sensitivity, and attention to both artistic and emotional detail.

 

Initial Consultation

     The process begins with a private consultation where we discuss the desired scale, composition, placement, and overall vision for the artwork.

      Beyond likeness alone, I strive to understand what the client hopes the portrait will truly preserve — whether it is a sense of presence, personality, memory, connection, or an important moment within the life of a family.

 

Concept Development & Commission Agreement

      Once the creative direction is established, the client receives a clear and straightforward commission agreement outlining the details of the project, including materials, dimensions, estimated timeline, delivery logistics, and payment structure.

      A 30% initial deposit reserves the commission and allows the creative process to begin.

 

Photography & Reference Gathering

       Whenever possible, I prefer to personally meet the individuals I am painting.

    During the portrait session, I gather extensive photographic references while also observing subtle qualities that cannot always be captured through photography alone — expression, energy, mannerisms, emotional presence, and quiet psychological nuance.

      These observations become an essential part of creating a portrait that feels not only visually accurate, but emotionally alive.

 

Composition Planning & Preparatory Studies

      Following the reference session, I develop the compositional direction of the portrait through sketches, tonal studies, and preliminary oil studies.

     Clients are presented with these studies early in the process to ensure thoughtful collaboration and alignment before the final painting begins.

      The original preparatory studies are later gifted to the client as part of the commission experience.

 

Bringing the Portrait to Life

    Each portrait is created using professional archival oil paints and carefully selected materials intended for long-term preservation.

      Working primarily in oil on linen, I develop each painting slowly and intentionally through layered techniques that allow for depth, luminosity, realism, and emotional subtlety.

     Great attention is given not only to physical likeness, but also to atmosphere, gesture, light, texture, and the unique emotional qualities that make each individual unmistakably themselves.

 

Final Presentation & Delivery

     Once the portrait is complete, arrangements are made for professional delivery, shipping, or installation depending on the client’s location and preferences.

      The remaining 70% balance is due upon completion and delivery of the artwork.

     Privacy, discretion, and respect for the client and their family remain deeply important throughout the entire process. All personal information, conversations, and reference materials are treated with complete confidentiality.

     Because oil paintings continue curing naturally over time, each completed portrait receives a final professional varnish application approximately six months to one year after completion to ensure long-term protection and archival preservation.