Commission Policies

Creating a portrait or custom painting is a collaborative process, and one of the great joys of my work. These policies are intended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from our first conversation to the day your artwork arrives home.

The Commission Process

1. Initial Inquiry

The process begins with a conversation. You may contact me through the website or by email to discuss your project.

During this stage, we will discuss:

• Subject matter

• Desired size

• Medium

• Timeline

• Location of the subject

• Intended display space

• Any special details or requests

For local collectors, I may be able to photograph the subject personally. For collectors outside the area, high-quality reference photographs will need to be provided.

2. Proposal & Quote

Once project details have been discussed, you will receive a commission proposal outlining:

• Artwork specifications

• Estimated completion timeline

• Total investment

• Payment schedule

The proposal must be approved before work can begin.

3. Reservation Deposit

A non-refundable deposit of 25% is required to reserve your place on my commission schedule.

Your commission date is not secured until the deposit has been received.

Because I accept a limited number of commissions each year, reservation deposits allow me to dedicate time and studio space to your project.

4. Reference Photography

The quality of the finished painting depends greatly on the quality of the reference material provided.

For distant collectors, I provide a complimentary guide outlining how to create strong photographic references.

Whenever possible, photographs should:

• Be sharp and in focus

• Include natural lighting

• Show accurate color

• Capture clear facial features and expressions

• Avoid heavy filters or image editing

• Be high-resolution

Additional photographs may be requested before work begins.

5. Creation of the Artwork

Once reference materials and deposit have been received, work will begin according to the agreed schedule.

Throughout the process, I may provide occasional progress updates at my discretion.

My focus during this stage is creating the strongest possible painting rather than documenting every step.

6. Final Approval & Payment

Upon completion, you will receive photographs of the finished artwork for approval.

The remaining balance is due before delivery or shipment.

Artwork will not be released until payment has been received in full.

Timeline

Completion times vary based on size, complexity, drying time, and current studio workload.

Most commissions are completed within:

• Small Portraits: 4–8 weeks

• Medium Portraits: 8–12 weeks

• Large or Multi-Subject Portraits: 12–16+ weeks

These timeframes are estimates and may vary.

If delays occur, communication will be provided as soon as possible.

Revisions & Changes

The goal is always to create a painting you will treasure for years to come.

Minor adjustments may be discussed during the planning phase.

Once painting has begun, substantial changes to pose, composition, subject matter, or reference material may not be possible or may incur additional fees..

Shipping & Delivery

Artwork may be:

• Shipped within the United States

• Delivered locally when available

• Picked up by appointment

Shipping costs within the USA are included. International shipping is quoted separately.

Collectors are responsible for providing accurate shipping information.

Copyright & Reproduction Rights

The artist retains all copyrights to commissioned artwork.

This means I may:

• Display the artwork in my portfolio

• Share images on my website

• Use the artwork for exhibitions, publications, marketing, or social media

If you would prefer your commission remain private, please discuss this prior to beginning the project.

Purchase of the original artwork does not transfer reproduction or commercial rights unless agreed to in writing.

What I Paint

I welcome inquiries for:

• Individual portraits

• Children’s portraits

• Family portraits

• Pet portraits

• Memorial portraits

• Figurative works

• Select custom fine art projects

Each commission is carefully considered to ensure it aligns with my artistic style and studio focus.

I reserve the right to decline any project that is not a good fit.

A Note to Collectors

A commissioned painting is more than a likeness. It is an attempt to preserve something fleeting—a glance, a gesture, a relationship, a moment that matters.

My hope is to create artwork that feels deeply personal, beautifully crafted, and worthy of becoming part of your family's story for generations to come.

If you're considering a commission and have questions, I would be delighted to hear from you.