Question 1

What's your process?

Accepted Answer

To get the conversation started, just email me with a brief description of what you're after.

I work from photographs (not from my imagination) so I can combine elements but I need to be able to see them. I will let you know if what you have in mind would be better suited to another artist - I am very honest about that!

Once I have your photographs, we will work together to create a composition. I will provide you with a good idea of how the final painting will look by creating a digital mock-up. This is very much a collaborative process; I want my clients to be 100% happy with the composition before I start the painting.

Once you have approved the digital mock-up, I will ask for 50% deposit before starting the painting.

Once the painting is complete I will send you some photographs. I am able to make small amends at this final stage but nothing major as it would risk ruining the painting.

Providing you are happy I will invoice you for the outstanding balance. Once this is paid, I will pacakage your painting and post it to you using a tracked delivery option.

Question 2

What about still life commissions?

Accepted Answer

If you are interested in a still life commission and would like me to provide the reference photo for the painting, please note that I stage everything in my studio with real objects to create the composition. As a result I may have to purchase objects which will be factored into the final price.

Question 3

What do you use to create the painting?

Accepted Answer

I paint exclusively in gouache paint. Gouache is a water-based medium with a similar composition to watercolour but with a higher concentration of pigment. Gouache colours are more vibrant and the paint much thicker than watercolour. Gouache dries to a beautiful matte finish. As gouache is a water-based media I would strongly recommend framing it under glass. I paint on thick hot-pressed (smooth) paper.

Question 4

What size can the artwork be?

Accepted Answer

The standard size I work to is approximately 11.5 x 15.5 inches. The paper is 12 x 16 inches so there will be a small border to help with mounting and framing.

However I am completely flexible and can work to smaller or bigger sizes. I can also work to different ratios.

Question 5

How long will it take?

Accepted Answer

I require a minimum of 2-3 weeks to complete a commission. It is dependent on how busy I am at the time. If it is urgent, and the composition is quite simple,  I may be able to complete it in under 2 weeks so do please ask and obviously let me know if you have a specific deadline. In order to not rush the initial collaborative part of the process where we decide on a final composition, I like to start 5 weeks before you require the final painting. Remember if you are thinking of framing the painting for a gift, you will need to factor in time for this after you have received the painting.

Question 6

What if I don't like the finished artwork?

Accepted Answer

Fortunately I have only ever experienced positive feedback from my completed commissions! However, if the completed work is not to your liking, I will do my best to amend it. Sadly, there is only so much I can do at this final stage. If you wish to cancel the commission please note that the 50% deposit is non-refundable but I will not charge you any more for my time.

Question 7

How much do commissions cost?

Accepted Answer

The price of each commission is quoted individually based on size, subject matter, detail, deadline and the amount of preparation required. Prices start from £120.I can mount it for you too for an additional cost. I do not provide a framing service as I do not like to send glass in the post.