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Commission Process

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I work from a combination of live sittings, sketches and photographic references, with each portrait beginning with a relaxed and informal consultation

 

You are very welcome to visit me at my studio, although, where practical, I often prefer to meet you in your own home. Being in familiar surroundings tends to make the experience more comfortable and natural, and gives me the opportunity to see something of your personality and character - all of which helps me to create a portrait that feels genuinely personal to you.

 

I usually allow a couple of hours for our initial meeting. There is no need for formal posing throughout; much of this time is simply spent talking, getting to know one another and exploring ideas for your portrait. During the visit, I will make any necessary sketches and take a selection of reference photographs, which I will then use to create your portrait back in my studio.

 

I can also create portraits entirely from your own photographs. For highly detailed work, however, the quality of the reference image is particularly important. Ideally, photographs should be clear, well-lit and high resolution, with enough detail for me to accurately capture the features and subtleties of the subject. I understand that a perfect reference photograph isn't always available, particularly when commissioning a memorial portrait. In these circumstances, please feel free to send me the photographs you have. I will be happy to look through them with you and advise whether they contain enough detail to create the portrait you have in mind.

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Completion times

 

The time required to complete your portrait will vary depending on the size, level of detail and medium you choose. As a general guide, commissions take approximately one to six months to complete, although this is an estimated timescale and may vary from portrait to portrait.

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Oil paintings require additional consideration, as the paint needs time to fully cure before a final varnish can be applied. If you would prefer not to wait for the curing period, your finished painting can be delivered to you unvarnished. Once fully cured, you can then arrange for the painting to be professionally varnished by a reputable art restorer or specialist.

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If your portrait is intended for a particular occasion or date, please let me know when enquiring and I will advise whether your preferred timescale is possible.

 

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Framing and delivery

 

Oil paintings on canvas are supplied unframed and ready to hang, allowing you to choose a frame that best complements both the portrait and your home. 

 

Graphite and pastel portraits are supplied ready for framing.  I am always happy to offer advice on suitable framing options to ensure your finished portrait is presented beautifully and appropriately protected. 

 

Wherever practical, I prefer to personally deliver your completed portrait. When this is not possible, your artwork will be carefully and securely packaged using reinforced protective materials and sent via a fully insured and tracked delivery service, ensuring it reaches your safely. 

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Prices

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The prices shown below are intended as a guide, as every portrait commission is individually created and priced according to your requirements. Factors such as the size, medium, level of detail and complexity of the background will all be taken into consideration before a final quotation is provided.

 

Travel costs, where applicable, are not included in the guide prices.

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Any quotation provided will remain valid for one month, ensuring that the price quoted will be honoured should my prices change during that period.

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All prices displayed on this website include 21% VAT. For clients outside the European Union, VAT is not applicable; the export price can be calculated by dividing the displayed price by 1.21. For all international orders, please be aware that local import duties, taxes or customs charges may apply and are the responsibility of the client.

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Payment can be made by bank transfer or cash.

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Pet Portraits

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Alongside my portraiture work, I also create bespoke pet portraits in support of animal rescue. Through Blackberry's Friends, proceeds from my pet portrait commissions are shared with the animal rescue centres and sanctuaries I support. Pet portrait commissions start from €185.

 

To find out more about pet portraits, Blackberry's Friends and the rescue centres supported through my artwork, please visit www.blackberrysfriends.com

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