Commissioning Of Acrylic Portrait Artists

By Lena Stephenson


Commissioning a portrait painting is not something that happens too often in a lifetime and so it is important to choose the right artist. When selecting acrylic portrait artists there are various factors that need to be taken into consideration. The skill, processes used and the price all play a part in making this important choice.

Many people are able to make an accurate copy of a photograph but artists with training and experience can often go way beyond this. They manage to instill life into a painting and capture something of the character of an individual. An artist with education or training of some kind will often have some understanding of anatomy and be able to produce a real life sketch competently.

Portfolios can give a great deal of insight into the competence and style of a particular artist. Different mediums such as oils, acrylics, charcoals and watercolors may be used and sometimes a combination of mediums. These all have their own advantages and disadvantages. Acrylics are a popular choice for portraits due to the quick drying time. Many individuals are offering their painting services online today and this offers the opportunity of comparing portfolios before selecting a specific artist.

Some artists work only from photographs while others use a combination of both photographs and live sketches. The client will be asked to come in for a photographic session where a number of photographs are taken and a live sitting or two may also be necessary. Once this has been done, a preliminary sketch can be created. When this has been accepted by the client, the real painting can be started.

Price is obviously an important consideration when choosing an artist. However, it is always important to remember that one gets what one pays for. A painting like this is often passed down through generations and if it truly conveys the essence of a person, it can be passed down with pride. Prices will also obviously differ depending on the size and type of background chosen. A more ornate background is obviously costlier and a simple head and shoulders painting will cost less than a large one of a full figure.

It is important for both parties to sign a contract to seal the deal. This contract should mention all the details discussed with the client to avoid any misunderstandings. Most artists require a deposit up front and payment of the balance when the painting is completed.

The relationship between the artist and the client may be a formal one or a more relaxed casual one. This depends very much on the way the artist prefers to work. Some enjoy the input of clients through each stage. Others prefer to work from the time the preliminary sketch is approved through to completion of a painting without any input from the client.

Today, one does not have to commission a large, expensive painting. It is also possible to request a small head and shoulders one, suitable for hanging in any modern house. One of this size can also make a thoughtful gift for a family member or relative on a special occasion like a birthday.




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