Senin, 28 April 2014

Why To Commission A Portrait Painting

By Essie Osborn


Many people are reluctant to consider commissioning portraiture because they think it is very expensive and are not quite sure how to choose an artist. Deciding to commission a portrait painting does involve taking many factors into consideration but it is usually well worth the effort. You will have in your possession a painting that evokes strong memories and can convey these to future generations.

The skill of the artist is obviously an extremely important consideration. The first way to see whether you like the style and the medium the artist chooses to work in is to examine a portfolio of work. Mediums used for works vary considerably, from oils and pastels to water colors and charcoal.

Through the ages, portraiture was popular and required lengthy sittings. With the advent of photography, this has changed and the long sittings are no longer necessary. Some artists still make detailed life sketches before beginning portraits. Others will arrange a single photographic sitting, styling the photographs in a particular way. Many artists use a combination of sketches and photographs.

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.

Before starting on the painting, the artist usually produces a small sketch. This is used to give the client some indication of what the final product will look like. Minor changes can be suggested by the client at this point. Some artists prefer that clients have no input after this point. Others like the client to be involved throughout the process.

Choosing the right artist to do a portrait can make the difference between a mere copy and a work of art. An artist with skill, training and experience knows exactly how to bring out the true essence of the individual. It is worth the expense to have a painting like this that evokes memories and can be passed down to future generations.




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