How to Commission a Pet Portrait from a Photograph

 The Commission Process

I thoroughly enjoy taking on commissioned projects, when the time allows. Commissioning a painting is a unique partnership between the artist and the collector.  I take the utmost care to achieve the vision that you are looking for when commissioning a painting.  I would love to discuss your envisioned piece and the creative process involved with you; feel free to contact me with any questions. 

The Brief

Once you contact me, we will have an initial chat to discuss the vision for your piece (for example, details such as subject, style, size, price range, medium and materials). Please let me know if there are any particular painting styles you love. 

“After the Hunt”, Original Pastel Painting

“After the Hunt”, Original Pastel Painting

 

Enquire

 When you are ready to begin

I paint from photo reference for Pet Portraits. A couple of reference photos of your pet(s) can be emailed to me (e.g. good examples of your special pet(s) so that I can get to know them).

Photos that capture the character of your pet are best.  One good image that you really love and a couple of others to give me an idea of the personality of your pet.  The better the photo, the better the portrait.  I can only draw as well as the reference photos provided.

Once we have agreed your brief (e.g. subject, style, size, medium, background and photo), I will provide you with a quotation and we can set up a commission contract to look after both parties.  The cost of an individually commissioned painting varies according to your particular requirements. 

Please let me know where you are likely to hang your commissioned piece in your home, what kind of feeling you are trying to create from the painting(s), or if it is a gift for a special friend or relative.  As much information you can supply, will ensure that you are happy with the finished work.

I will then book you into my schedule and give you an approximate timescale.  If you require your painting for a certain date/deadline, please let me know a month or two in advance and I will do my best to fulfil your request.

Poppy's Garden by Patricia J Valenti.jpg

“Poppy’s Garden”, Original Oil on Canvas Commission

Prices are based primarily on the size of the painting and complexity of the subject. I am happy to work with you to achieve the painting you desire within your budget.

Once you are happy with your brief for the painting, a £50 payment fee is required to book your painting. Please let me know if there are any particular additions that you would like added at this stage, before the painting process begins.

Oil paintings take a substantial time to dry (at least 4 to 7 weeks) and I will not ship an oil painting until it is dry enough to ship securely. This must be considered into the timescale for any oil painting. I also have some examples of pastel painting commissions, if you would prefer a pastel (or a sketch).    

When the painting is finished, and you are happy with your painting, final payment is due before the artwork is shipped out to you.

Shipping cost is additional, and is determined once the painting is packed, weighed and measured and will vary according to the final destination (taxes may apply in your area).

Please feel free to contact me regarding commissioning a painting.  I look forward to painting something beautiful for you and to working with you.