PORTRAIT COMMISSIONS - PROCEDURE & FEES

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The finest portraits are the result of personal interaction between artist and subject, where the character of the portrait subject is interpreted through the painter's eye and hand.  An oil portrait lasts forever, and will be handed down to future generations or retained in a museum or public collection for all to see.  To ensure that this important record of your life is the best possible embodiment of all that you are, I encourage you to devote some time to its creation. 

At an initial meeting, we discuss how you would like to be portrayed and consider clothing and setting, where the portrait is to hang, the size and the concept.  Then I will  take hundreds of photographs in various poses, adjusting lighting, angles of view and the many other variables, over about two hours. I will process the images and select the best ones for you to view.  Together we choose the final details of the portrait, taking any additional photographs as required.  All of this can usually be accomplished on the same day. If you have time, I may do a small oil study to accurately record colors and tones. The final portrait will be painted in my studio and I can send images for your approval as the painting progresses.

If you would like to experience the full tradition of a portrait painted from life, I am very comfortable working this way also. I prefer to paint from life in my studio in Spokane, Washington, where I have the appropriate easels, canvas, equipment and lighting.  This ensures we have the ideal working conditions, allowing us to concentrate on your portrait without the distractions that may occur at your home or office.  My studio is a large and welcoming space in our home to the north of Spokane, on 4.5 acres overlooking a beautiful river. 

The process of sitting for an artist is an interesting experience and something few people have the opportunity to enjoy.  You will have direct input as the painting progresses, and feel a stronger connection to your portrait if you participate personally in its creation.  Portraits from life may require sittings over several days, depending on size.

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Following our initial discussions of your ideas and preferences, a deposit of 50% of the agreed price will secure our contract. The final 50% is due on your acceptance of an image of the completed portrait by email or mail.  If painted from life, final adjustments will not be necessary as you will have seen the painting in progress. If painted only from photographs, extra travel costs to make any final adjustments may be required, although this is rare as my clients have always been completely happy with their portraits.  I may be available to deliver the portrait in person and attend an official unveiling if requested.

My portraits are painted on the highest quality Claessens Belgian Linen, mounted on panels for easy handling and long term protection of the canvas. Very large portraits may be on stretched Belgian linen to reduce weight.  I use only the finest artist-quality oil paints. 

Framing is not included in the quoted prices, but I am happy to assist in the selection of a suitable frame, and ship the painting to you framed and ready to hang.  I work with some of the finest creators of hand-crafted frames in the country.

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The following prices reflect approximate starting points and will vary with different formats, additional people or pets, and special details or backgrounds.  Most portraits are best painted life size.
 
These prices are for single portraits, but additional figures in the same portrait may not require a full additional fee. 
Multiple portraits commissioned at the same time will be at reduced fees.
Children's portraits will usually be a little less, and equestrian and pet portraits are priced according to the size and concept.

Head and shoulders,  from $8,000

1/2 length, with or without hands, from $12,000

3/4 length with hands, from $19,000

Full length, from $25,000

Framing, crating and shipping, taxes, travel and lodging are extra.

Multiple portraits commissioned at the same time will be at reduced fees. Smaller studies of the same person are available with the commission of a larger portrait. These make wonderful family gifts, or personal mementos of official portraits. 
Exact or similar copies of your portrait can also be commissioned. Prices on request. 

Delivery times vary from 2 months to a year, depending on my current work load, your availability for sittings, and the location. 

Gift certificates are available for wedding portraits, anniversaries, graduations or other special occasions.

Please call or email me to discuss your ideas.  I look forward to working with you to create your official portrait or family heirloom.

Studio: 509-465-4006
Email Krystii Melaine

"A beautiful work of art enriches life and brings happiness to all who experience it."