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Newsletter 1 - Oct 17, 05
Newsletter 2 - Nov. 17, 05

 

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.