The Commission Process
The portrait commission process consists of distinct steps calculated to ensure the success of the commission.
Before beginning the commissioned project, the following must be discussed and agreed upon:
Number of Figures
Formal or Informal Dress
Image Range - Head, Head to Shoulders, Head to Waist, Full Figure
Setting- Home, Office, Outdoors
Canvas Size - from 11" x 14" to Full Size
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Martin can work from photos provided by the client, provided such are high quality professional photos capturing the character of the subject; however, Martin prefers to meet with the portrait subject and engage in a photographic session, producing a series of images most suitable as portrait reference material.
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Portrait sittings may take place at the client's choice of location, or at Martin's studio. This photographic session may last between one to two hours, depending on the nature of the chosen composition.
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Prior to completion of the portrait, the client is offered the opportunity to view and comment on the progress to provide for any revisions required to bring the portrait to a successful conclusion.
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Each portrait is painted on professional grade canvas, or fine Belgian linen, using Old Holland paints to ensure permanence for generations.
PORTRAIT FEES
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Commission fees are based upon the size of the painting and the complexity of the composition.
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Portrait commission prices start with a single subject. A 10% discount for each additional subject is offered for portraits including more than a single figure. The starting point for a single adult portrait (head and neck) on canvas is $1.50 per square inch. Two figures in a single portrait would be charged at $2.70 per square inch. Three quarter and full figure portraits are more expensive as they may involve intricate clothing, accessories and complex backgrounds, (N.B. Prices will increase over time).
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Canvas sizes may vary to adjust to the client's composition choices. An example of a popular choice is a head and shoulders portrait of a pre-teen child on a 11″ x 14″ canvas. Similarly, an adult head and shoulders portrait may be 18" x 24" or larger.
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Shipping costs and travel expenses are in addition to the price of the portrait.
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The commission price must be agreed upon prior to the sitting (or before the first sketch is made from the client's selected image) at which time 50% of the commission fee is due. This payment is non-refundable. The balance is paid upon portrait completion and prior to delivery.