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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Why have a portrait
painted, and why oil?
Commissioning an oil 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 pressed wood panel.
The depth and luminosity of oil painting in
general—and flesh tones in particular—cannot be matched in any other
medium. With the traditional academic techniques that
Bob uses, an oil painting can last beyond
a lifetime; it can be preserved as a precious heirloom and as a work
of fine art. Acrylic is also an option.
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 to provide the ultimate in protection through the years.
3.
How much does an oil 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 the handy FinePix 3800 digital camera,
then immediately evaluated on the laptop computer. After
agreeing on the best pose and composition, the Nikon D70
digital SLR will be used to capture reference material for the
actual portrait. Time permitting a color head study is made
from life. The portrait is
painted without the subject being personally present. A final
sitting may be necessary 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 are essential using studio strobes.
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?
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, 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 acrylic,
pastel or watercolor?
Acrylic, 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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