FAQs
Frequently asked questions about commissioning a painting
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I want to commission a painting. What do I do?
The first thing you need to do is think about what type of painting you want. Each one is a unique and individual work specifically designed for you. Your input right from the beginning is essential.
Decide on the subject matter:
Full Body – this is a painting where the whole animal or person is portrayed within a chosen background e.g. a cross country competition or a hunting scene. Bear in mind that this type of painting is the most expensive as it usually incurs many more hours of work. See Christmas Spirit
Head and Shoulders – this is a painting of the head or heads of the animals within a muted background. Usually the most popular as most of the character is shown in the head or face. See Casper and Pippin
Montage – this is a particular favourite where the head and shoulders is portrayed on a background of smaller studies in a single colour. See Retriever
When you have decided on the type of painting or design you want you then need to decide on the medium.
What types of medium are there to choose from?
There are many types of medium available
Oils – this is one of the most traditional medium painted on canvas or prepared paper or board. Oils are rich in colour and hung without glass. However they do require a specialised technique if they are going to last due to the long drying processes. Hung in inappropriate conditions they can deteriorate quite quickly and require cleaning and maintenance to keep the colours fresh. See Mares and Foals
Watercolour/Gouache – softer and more translucent. Painted on watercolour paper or board these have a mount and are framed behind glass. See Rosie
Pastel/Crayon – these can be produced as loose drawings or with a more finished look. Usually done on coloured paper or board they are soft and very good for head studies. See Dalmatian
Pen and Ink – coloured or black and white,these can either be drawings or executed with coloured ink washes. See Fawn
I live a long way away. How can you do a painting for me?
Obviously it is best to see any animal you are painting and I like to be able to photograph myself and get a general feel before I start but sometimes this is not possible for many reasons. If you live a distance then I require as many good photos as possible. I then produce a mock up and send this before I start any commission. Colours, mounts, sizes are all decided upon and I keep in contact throughout the commission. I also prefer it if the client sees the painting at various stages and welcome the input which is vital for me to get the work exactly right.
If you live near enough I will come and see the subject and take detailed photos and talk to the client at length. No painting leaves the studio until the client is absolutely satisfied.
I hope this answers a few of your questions.
If you need any further information or prices please contact me.
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