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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why have a portrait painted?
Commissioning an portrait is a unique way to recognize
achievement, celebrate success, or treasure a remembrance.
Robert's paintings are crafted to
reveal character and to
seem almost life-like. An
alternative to canvas is the wood panel or linen.
The depth and luminosity of
an acrylic or oil painting in
general—and flesh tones in particular—cannot be matched in any other
medium. With the traditional academic techniques that
Bob uses, a painting can last
well beyond
a lifetime; it can be preserved as a precious heirloom and as a work
of fine art for future generations.
Bob's
acrylic paintings are indistinguishable from oil paintings.
2.
Does the portrait have
to be painted on Canvas?
Traditionally portraits are
done on canvas. Wood panel is also possible and they go back
even further than canvas. The
artist recommends the canvas be mounted on a pressed wood
panel rather than on a streacher to provide the ultimate in protection through the years.
Linen is also a possibility.
3.
How much does a portrait cost?
It depends
on the size of the portrait, the amount of detail in the work, and
other factors. For a custom work of fine art and lasting value, you
will find these commission rates both
reasonable and competitive. See
Portraiture.
4.
Is there an artist's agent or gallery to work through?
Bob prefers to work directly with his
portrait clients, rather than work through an agent or gallery. With
direct consultation, work on a portrait usually can get started and
completed sooner. Also, there is less likelihood of any
misunderstanding between the artist and client.
5.
How long will I have to sit?
The initial sitting is
about two hours. A variety of poses, venues, lighting and
clothing can be explored with a Nikon DSLR digital camera or a Canon
G9,
then immediately evaluated on the laptop computer. After
agreeing on the best pose and composition, reference material for the
actual portrait will be recorded. Time permitting a color head study
or charcoal drawing is made
from life. The portrait is
painted without the subject being personally present. A final
sitting if possible is an option as the portrait nears completion.
6.
What's involved in commissioning a portrait? — I live a long way
from the artist's studio.
Bob
is available to travel nationwide for the initial consultation and
sitting. He will return to his studio to complete the portrait. For
the convenience of his long-distance clients, the artist consults by
phone, mail, or e-mail.
After the portrait details and commission
fee are agreed, work
can begin upon receipt of 50% of the commission. The
remaining 50% is due after you approve an 8x10
photo of the finished portrait. Shipping,
crating, framing and insurance are not included in the commission
fee.
7.
What about portraits of infants or toddlers?
To capture the warmth and delight of
young children, high-quality reference photographs
taken in the studio are not always necessary.
Bob prefers to use available light without flash.
During your consultation with the artist, he will make appropriate
recommendations based on the age and personality of the child.
Mother and child together is often
preferable.
8.
Can portraits of pets be commissioned?
Yes, and an individual or family group portrait may
include a pet as part of the composition.
9.
Can I commission a posthumous portrait?
Yes, this is
quite possible if there are suitable photographs of the deceased.
The artist has successfully combined a
treasured photo of a child with a carefully posed and lighted photo
of the mother.
10.
Can I have changes made to my portrait?
Minor
corrections can be made as the work is close to completion.
Significant changes are rarely necessary if sufficient time is taken
at the initial consultation and sitting to
reach a mutual understanding. If
significant changes are requested by the client when the work is
completed or nearly completed, then
reconsideration of the commission amount may be in order.
11.
Can I commission a still life or landscape?
Yes, depending on the subject. Please
check with the artist to discuss what you have in mind.
12.
Can I get a portrait painted in oil, acrylic,
pastel or watercolor?
Acrylic or oil, yes.
13.
What is the telephone number and mailing
address?
See
CONTACT .
14.
What is the e-mail address?
See
CONTACT .
15.
What is the artist's background?
See
PERSONAL.
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