My Mission

My mission is to portray each person at his or her best - to explore, discover, and convey those qualities about the sitter that are interesting, informative and most characteristic. I pledge that every painting leaving my studio will represent my very best effort as a creative artist and craftsman.

The Portrait Process

A portrait painting is a collaboration between the artist and their subject. The creative process involves using different sources such as reference photos, sketches from life, compositional studies, color notes, and ideas from master paintings to arrive at the final image.

How best to portray our subject and getting to know one another is the goal of the first meeting. Elements of the picture that are important like place, clothing and lighting are discussed. And if the image calls for a more casual or formal approach. Along with my impressions, these elements help give voice to who the person is and what they are about. A portrait is not just about a likeness!

After the initial meeting the process can be described in about four steps.

1. A photo session is scheduled lasting 30 - 40 minutes. I then review the photo shoot and choose 3 -5 images as possible references for the final image and present them to the client at our next meeting.

2. A sitting for a drawing or oil sketch is scheduled next lasting about 2 hours. One or two sittings are generally enough to gather the impressions I need.

3. Once the reference materials ( photos ) are chosen, in consultation with the client and the concept of the painting is clear, I proceed with a small oil study. This study is not about detail but rather the all-important big picture look of the painting ( color, design, placement, proportional to final size, etc. ). The study is then sent to the client for final approval before starting the full-size portrait.

4. Upon completion of the painting, a meeting is arranged to deliver the portrait. I’m also available to help with selecting a frame and to attend a portrait unveiling.

Materials

Only archival materials that meet professional standards are used. Taken care of properly, a portrait painting made of archival materials will last for generations.

How long does it take to complete a portrait painting? 

Portraits are typically completed within a 3 - 6 month time frame. This allows for drying time and final application of a protective varnish.