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Getting
Started
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Having
a portrait created is a special event in one’s
life.The portrait should capture not only the likeness
of the
person but their spirit as well. It should be a work
of art for family, friends and colleagues to admire
today and for generations to come.
Portraiture has always existed.
It is natural for people to record their presence, their image, for
their time and as a memorial to pass on. Portraits have been painted
to honor
those of stature, from business leaders to clerics. Portraits also
represnt the love of one human being for another, the parent for
a child, the
husband for a wife or a human for a loved pet.
Because few people ever have more than one portrait created
in a lifetime, it’s wise to take your time in the selection process. As the person
who commissions a portrait, you will want to feel that the artist’s
style is right for you, you’ll want to understand the process and
you’ll want to know if there are any guarantees. In no event
should you ever take delivery of a portrait you are unhappy with.
Artists often work in many different styles so if you are attracted
to an artist’s work but don’t see an example of the type of
portrait you’d like, check with them. They may be able to provide
what you’re seeking.
It takes all of an artist’s skill and vision to incorporate
the elements of fine drawing, color and design to create
a portrait that
will invite viewing time and again. After reviewing a number of artists
and narrowing your search, contact the portrait artist of your choice.
Ask questions and request more information or samples if you feel
this is necessary.
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Travel & Location
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Each artist has
their own policies and proceedures. However, in many
cases,
the artist travels to your location and may stay
anywhere from one to several days. Some prefer to stay
in a
hotel, but other times a client’s guest room or
house is used. Most artists travel nationally and even
internationally
for a client, but some prefer to operate only locally.
Travel and accomodation fees are normally extra,
however, a few artists include them in their portrait
fee.
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Price &
Budget
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Most artists show
atleast a starting price, others have a full price schedule
and a few have choosen to omit prices from their pages
altogether.
When agreeing to a commission, it’s a good idea
to have a contract with the price, a description of
the portrait and the terms in writing. A deposit from
one-third
to fifty-percent is normal and this is usually collected
at the initial preparation or sitting.
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What
toWear
& the Setting
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There are no hard
and fast rules, however, avoid garish colors and loud
prints.
Neutral tones such as black, brown, white, cream, navy,
burgundy and beige will not be tiring to the eye. Also,
choosing clothes with a classic style will insure that
your portrait will not later look dated. Consider your
lifestyle and where the portrait will hang in making
the choice of a formal or informal look. Though outdoor
portraits are normally considered less formal, there
are some that are actually quite formal. Conversely,
an indoor portrait could be quite casual. It’s
a combination of factors, including the clothing, setting
and character
of the subject.
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Delivery
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Delivery of your portrait
is an exciting moment. Some artists deliver personally
and others ship the artwork after you’ve approved
it from a photo or transparency. Most artists will make
requested touch ups after delvery, a few do not, so it’s
a good idea to ask. It is usually at this point that
the final payment is due.
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