Embrace the MOMENT
& ENJOY the Process
Like my favorite dinner parties, commissioning art should feel special, yet totally comfortable. So imagine yourself in your favorite chair with a cup of tea (or a chilled glass of Sancerre) & let’s talk through the process of creating something beautiful together.
Read on the learn more about how the process of commissioning a portrait works
1.the Initial Conversation
A friendly chat about what draws you to my work, the space where your art will live, and the feelings you hope it evokes. We can talk through the offerings and options, and what photographs* will work best for your selection. This important first step ensures we have all the right ingredients to cook up something beautiful together.
*A note on Photos: While I prefer to take initial photos at my home studio I appreciate that families can’t always travel to Winston-Salem, and I am happy to talk you through what I need. In some cases, photographs from your archives will work, but other times we will need to schedule photos with a photographer in your area..
2. Concept Development
This is where the magic begins to take shape! Once we’ve established the direction for our piece, I will create preliminary sketches and color studies for your project. There’s nothing like seeing your vision begin to materialize!
3. the Painting Process
I know it’s hard to wait, so while I work on your piece, you will receive periodic updates with photographs of the work progress, ensuring we are on the same page with your vision.
The working timeline for your piece will depend on a number of factors, including the medium, the size, & the season, which will be covered in our consultation.
4. the Grand Reveal
My favorite part! When your piece is complete, I will arrange a showing if you are local, or provide you with high quality photographs before arranging for framing* and delivery.
*framing is optional, I am happy to handle the logistics locally or I will provide you with guidelines to use with a frame shop local to you.
5. the Finishing Touches
Whether you are down the street or across the country, your artwork will be delivered with the utmost care and attention, and will include installation guidelines and care instructions to preserve the quality of your piece.
installation can be arranged for local clients
“Anna’s work is timeless while perfectly capturing a moment in time.”
“Aside from being a highly skilled artist, Anna has a remarkable ability to capture the spirit of the portrait subject. Even if she hasn’t had the opportunity to meet or know the individual subject, she engages with you to gather context and/or other images to best capture the personality and features of the individual.”
FAQs
(aka, the questions you are probably too polite to ask, but definitely should!)
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Portraits range from $600 for a small head and shoulders watercolor to $4000+ for a large, full body Oil portrait. Total investment is dependent on a few factors, including the medium, size and level of intricacy (think very delicate & intricate patterns on clothing or special backgrounds).
My current pricing guide can be found here.
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The exact timeline, like the total investment, is dependent on a few factors, including what medium you chose (oil paintings require additional drying time), size & intricacy & the time of year (because artists take vacations too!)
Typically, commissions are complete within 6-8 weeks.
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While flattering, each piece I create is unique.
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A 50% deposit is required to secure your space on my studio calendar & begin your commission.
The balance is due upon completion to your satisfaction.
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While this rarely occurs (thank goodness!), your satisfaction is my ultimate goal. If for any reason the wires got crossed in our initial consultation & concept development, we will work together to address any concerns until you have a piece you love looking at every day.
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Absolutely! Your artwork will be professionally packaged & shipped wherever your heart desires & resides.
Additional shipping fees will be discussed ahead of time, as well as any customs paperwork
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There is no right or wrong age for a portrait! But if you think you’ve missed the window for capturing a certain age or season of life, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that I can work from old photos.
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Is this a trick question?! Definitely not! I create concept sketches & paint from photographs, sometimes even from images you already have in your phone. When we capture new photos in my studio, I promise we make it quick & as easy as possible, mom’s honor.
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I’m so glad you asked!
If you haven’t already, take a peek at my portrait offerings to get a sense of what options are available, & then head over to my contact page to send me a note.
You definitely do not have to know what medium you’d like before you schedule your initial consultation!
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Just as I balance tradition with personality in my portraits, a great dinner party balances beautiful presentation with the kind of comfort that has guests kicking off their shoes under the table.