FAQs

What size is a typical portrait?

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Each standard bust adult portrait is made to measure 50cm x 60cm. Each child standard bust portrait is made to measure 40cm x 50cm.

Custom canvases are made upon request for larger projects - for example a multifigure piece containing three sitters would be made to measure 90cm x 120cm.

NB Each canvas is made by scratch by me, as are the paints which I mix myself in the traditional Renaissance style.

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How long does a sitting typically take?

Ideally, a sitting will take around 14 hours in total. Usually, this takes place in several 1-2 hour slots over the course of one or two weeks. Sight-size painting follows a traditional process of studying the sitter and applying several layers of paint to the canvas. While you will be sitting still for this time, it involves me doing quite a bit of walking backwards and forwards to and from the canvas to ensure the proportions are all correct. I often do several thousand steps per sitting and can accumulate several kilometres for just one portrait! Where necessary, I am able to paint at speed, so for urgent commissions or for sitters who have little time to spare, this is an option.

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Can I choose the colours in the portrait?

I will work closely with you to decide on the overall look and feel of the portrait and how it will fit with your home interior decor. Some clients prefer a lighter, more contemporary palette where others opt for darker, more traditional tones.  This tends to be dictated by the background colour.  It helps to factor in the colour of the space in which the portrait will be hung. Accent colours may be brought to the fore through your choice of clothing or an item that you may choose to include in the portrait such as a book, hair accessory or item of jewellery. I use a traditional colour palette called the 'limited palette' which is made up of only 5 colours. Like the other techniques used in my work, this palette is derived from the Roman and Florentine Renaissance palette to capture the light and dark (chiaroscuro) of the sitter. 

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What should I wear for a sitting?

Anything you like! It is best to use block colours and to ensure that you are comfortable. Some clients like to wear a colour of item of clothing or jewellery that holds specific significance. If you can't decide on what to wear I am happy to help you choose.

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Where does a sitting take place?

You are welcome to come to my studio in Kensington, London, or I am happy to travel to your home, office or a location that suits you. Bear in mind that it is preferable to be somewhere with good natural light. Oil paint does have a strong smell, so it should also be well ventilated, if possible.

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How much does a portrait cost?

As each portrait is bespoke, costs vary. You can choose from a 'sketch' or a full portrait. A sketch is painted in oil on a standard size canvas, but is less detailed and refined than a full portrait. Please contact me directly for details of pricing and payment options. I am happy to discuss special prices for multiple paintings and repeat custom. 

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How long will it take to complete?

There are several stages involved in painting a portrait; an initial consultation, sitting, refining, varnishing and framing. Timing will depend on availability, how frequently we can meet to do sittings and your own requirements. Wherever possible I am happy to meet deadlines such as a special anniversary or birthday or for a reveal event. On average, a typical portrait can take 6-8 weeks to complete.

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Will I own the Copyright?

As the artist, I automatically own the copyright for your portrait. I am willing to discuss a licensing or copyright agreement with you on request. I will not publish any images of your portrait without your express permission. 

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Will the work be signed?

This is a personal decision. Some clients want a signature on the front, others prefer the signature to be on the back of the canvas. It is advisable to choose a frame before I add the signature to the front in case the frame competes for space.