Commissioning a Portrait
"I call my paintings SuperPortraits because by the time they
are finished they have a life of their own, an inner movement.
As the subject and I collaborate, a creative energy flow is created.
It builds as the subject relates to her portrait and is completed
when a viewer observes the finished painting. The movement embedded
in the very brush strokes of the portrait, persists -- empowering
the subject and touching the observer."
"Portraiture is a very personal genre. It is essential that I get a feeling for the person I am portraying. That is why I insist on a face-to-face meeting and take my own pictures. My goal is to infuse the painting with a special feeling that makes the subject come alive for the viewer. Though I am mindful of technical aspects as I work on a painting, my focus is always on the feeling I have about my subject. It helps me determine the color palette and medium that will best express the individual's unique quality."
FAQ's for Stephen:
Q: If I decide to have my portrait done, how do we start?
A: The portrait starts at our first meeting: I work from photos
of you that I take myself. This is the only way I work. If you
are within reasonable traveling distance from New York City or
one of my artist-in-residence exhibitions, I'll arrange to meet
with you for a thirty-minute photo session. If that is not possible,
we can make mutually agreeable scheduling arrangements. I will
travel long distance to your home or a halfway point at your expense.
During the meeting we will discuss your expectations and what
you would like to achieve with the painting. We will talk about
the options for medium, colors you like and finished size. We
can speak generally about framing and what I recommend.
A: 75% deposit of the agreed-upon price is due up front. If schedule
and proximity permit, we may decide upon a series of live sessions.
I prefer live sittings when possible because it allows me to get
to know my subject better and see the details of their face.
Q: What mediums do you work in?
A: I work in oil on linen, oil on canvas, acrylic on canvas and
watercolor on paper.
Q: How long does it take to get the finished piece?
A: Depending on the size and complexity of the assignment and
my work schedule, it can take from one week to a couple of months.
If there is a specific deadline that you need the portrait for
(i.e. a birthday, Christmas, special event, etc.) then I will
work with you and do my best to get it done in time. In order
to insure the portrait is done in time, reserve the portrait as
early as possible.
|
French Actress Marie Trintignant, Paris
|
Q: If it's necessary to ship the finished piece, how do you ship?
A: I ship the painting rolled in a protected tube, insured. The
shipping cost is the responsibility of the client. The balance
of my fee is due upon the client's receipt of the finished portrait.
Q: What if I want something changed after I receive the finished
painting?
A: This is a rare occurrence. However, I will satisfy minor changes
free of charge. Major changes will incur an additional fee.
Q: What are the prices?
A: Prices vary depending on several factors like: the size of
the canvas, travel, number of meetings, etc. Please email Lisa
or call her at 310.612.6555 for more info. She can answer all
your questions.
Q: It seems you have a busy painting schedule and you also travel
around the world doing exhibitions. How do I reserve time to commission
a portrait from you?
A: The best way to contact me is by emailing Lisa
or calling her at 310.612.6555. Please include your name, telephone
number, nature of your commission request and the best times to
reach you.
|
Actress and Activist Sharon Stone with
her Portrait and Stephen
Commissioned by AMFAR as a gift for Ms. Stone |
