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 Gracefully Elegant
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 Del Boy
Montage – this is a particular favourite where the head and shoulders is
portrayed on a background of smaller studies in a single colour. See Kilmannan Stud
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 Three Lads
Watercolour/Gouache – softer and more translucent. Painted on watercolour paper or
board these have a mount and are framed behind glass. See Heather
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 Dressage Study
Pen
and Ink/pencil – coloured or black and white,these can either be drawings
or executed with coloured ink washes. See Dressage
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 insist 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.
How much will it cost ?
It entirely depends upon the type of painting and the medium. Download the Pigsty Studio price list for a basic guide here
I
hope this answers a few of your questions.
If
you need any further information or prices please
contact me.
Nikpigsty@btinternet.com