Introduction

Today, when people think of portraits they probably first think of photography which of course, can produce amazing images by a skilled photographer. Sadly, the unprecedented ease with which we are saturated by images from myriad digital gadgets can numb us to a more leisurely, heartfelt appreciation of human representation. Although cameras dispassionately record the surface appearances in a split instant with uncompromising detail, capturing something the "heart" can see usually takes more than a mechanical contrivance.

That said, I recognize that in our fast paced modern lives most don't have the time for the lengthy sittings the traditional procedures require.

Fortunately, photography does allow a skilled artist to make the best use of your valuable time, while preserving the hand made interpretive creation that is a painted or drawn work.

My goal is to achieve a result that although partially derived from the use of photographs, also transcends them by cultivating my response to the sitter in the process. Merely repeating what the photo already did would miss the point. The use of traditional materials provide a personalized connection with the great art of the past which stood the test of centuries.

Fortunately, we don't have to be barons, aristocrats or heads of companies to have our loved ones honored in a work of art which is one of the great and enduring things a person can own for the next generation.

Basic Procedure

The portrait procedure begins with a discussion between the artist and client to determine the mood, setting, size, medium and price of the portrait.

If the client is local to me, I will preferably hold one or possibly two photographic sessions. If time permits, I may also do some quick on site sketches to solidify my memory and response to the subject, which will greatly help when using photos later.

Subsequent to the photo session, I will then select several photographs to be used as references and discuss them with the client.

Upon the client's approval of the proposed composition along with payment of a deposit, I will then proceed with the portrait at my studio. Four weeks is usually sufficient to complete a typical work, but the process is variable so gifts should be planned well in advance.

If the client cannot sit for my photo reference session or they desire a posthumous portrait, I will discuss a selection of the client's images to see which would work best for a painting or drawing.

Many interesting photos don't necessarily translate well to painting or drawing, so it is best to have a number of them to discuss.

Please call 301-661-2739 or e-mail me for more information, I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have!

Click here to download PDF of price list

(Pricing is the same for people or animal subjects.)