Let’s make something only you could inspire.

Commissioning a Painting

I am a painter with realist skills, and a playful imagination. Do you have an idea for a painting? Let’s see if we can make it happen.

Portrait Commission Process

I collaborate with clients to create portraits that capture likeness, spirit, and story. The process begins with an initial visit to get to know each other and generate a vision for the work. We will make preliminary decisions about what will be included in the artwork, and at what scale. A following visit is focused on gathering visual references through photography and in-person sketches. Both taking digital pictures and making drawn and painted studies aid in decision making once I return to the studio.

A small color study of the painting idea is approved together over email before beginning the full scale piece. Over a period of months, the work is completed, and progress checks are sent to the client. The finished painting is presented in person by me. Since portraits range in scope and size both in number of subjects and framing of the figure, contact Erin and she will gladly send along detailed information and prices.

Head Study

A head study is a beautifully executed portrait vignette in charcoal or oil, completed in-person. Typically 16"x20" depicting the head and possibly a suggestion of shoulders, the aim is to capture a likeness as well as a character or spirit about the subject. Working from life as the subject comfortably sits in view allows Erin to capture these nuances of personhood much better than photography. Commissioning a head study is as much about the process as the product, since the subject has the memorable opportunity to witness the painting develop. The process takes just over 3 hours, with a short time to set up, and 3 hours of painting sessions. The subject is given frequent breaks throughout the process, and the end result is a fresh feeling rendered image. Starting at $850