Hand-painted, Fine Art Watercolor Portraits
Thanks for your interest in my artwork! Here are some things to know:
The Artwork:
These realistic portraits are hand-painted and done on 140 lb acid-free Arches professional watercolor paper with Winsor & Newton professional watercolor paints. Each one is an original; not a print or digitally created! These are made with quality materials to ensure the longevity of the artwork. However, no watercolor art should ever be displayed in direct sunlight, since that can cause fading over time. The finished piece would look best matted and framed under glass to protect it. UV glass is not required, but would add extra protection from bright sunlight. I will also sign the front and sign/date the back and include a Certificate of Authenticity. Even though you will own the original, I will still own the copyright to print/sell copies if desired. Your finished piece will be shipped in a plastic sleeve inside a rigid mailer to ensure safe travels.
Digital Photo needed:
You will need to provide a clear digital photo of the exact pose you would like to have for the portrait. The more I can see...the more details I can paint! I suggest a pose where you can see the eyes clearly. The lighting is also very important; try taking a picture near a window where the indirect natural daylight can be seen in the eyes. Try not to use lamps or a flash. Photos taken outside would also work, but try to have the subject in the shade to avoid harsh shadows from the direct sunlight. If you have a few poses to choose from, I will definitely help make suggestions to pick the best one to use for a portrait. I also like to do just the head and possibly shoulders; in the classic portrait format. You can see all of my past portraits on the gallery page to see what I do.
Time to Complete (the process):
Once we have discussed all the details and have decided on the pose, I will need about a week to complete the artwork, unless there is a waiting list. Each portrait takes anywhere from 6-15 hours to actually paint, depending on the size and details. Many layers are required for these realistic portraits, including drying time in between. Then additional time is needed to flatten out the work, pack and ship. An additional 3 days are needed for shipping. Holidays are busier times for me, and I will paint in a first come, first served fashion. Please keep this in mind when trying to schedule.
Pricing:
I do these watercolor portraits in a couple of sizes and the prices reflect the increased time and materials needed to complete. After we discuss the plan, a $50 deposit is expected before the work is started. I will send updates on the progress and will get your final approval on the completed piece before packing and shipping. The balance of the payment via PayPal (credit card), Venmo, Facebook Pay or cash/check will be expected before the artwork is shipped.
For a single watercolor animal portrait (domestic shipping included):
Small: 5x7 or 5x5 ---------------$200 ---------------(too small for combo portrait)
Medium: 8x10 or 8x8 ----------$250 ---------($50 extra for each additional head)
Large: 11x14 or 12x12----------$300 --------($100 extra for each additional head)
If a combo pose is desired, I still like to only paint the head and shoulders. If full body or backgrounds are desired, this will increase the price as well. If you have a particular vision, just discuss with me and I will see what we can do. Don’t worry, I will not agree to an idea unless I know it will look beautiful in the end!
Thank you for your interest in a custom portrait!
Please contact me with any questions using the form below.
