Fine Art Paintings & more

Price is based on the following criteria: the number of people or pets in the painting; how much of each subject is to be depicted; the size of the actual painting itself; the intricacy of clothing, jewelry and props; and the complexity of the background setting.  

"Together, we'll capture your special story through a Portrait in Oil"

My goal is to create the most beautiful oil portrait commissions possible. I follow a set procedure to best ensure that each of my

commissioned oil portrait paintings lives up to the highest standards.

I work from high resolution, high quality digital files. (unless that’s not possible)

If you desire for me to do the Photoshoot, it’s $250 This includes travel time if it’s in areas close to New Orleans or Baton Rouge.

Allow about one hour of photographing. After editing, the best of the photography will be sent to you.

I will work from several photos if deemed necessary. I deduct this photoshoot price from the portrait’s deposit.

Then the painting process begins.

I will happily work with you to accommodate small changes. Your satisfaction is my primary concern.

A portrait is a very time consuming process.* Painting time will usually average 4-5 weeks with one or two subjects in the painting. Allow 2 to 3 months for portraits with several people. A complicated background can add even more time to the process. These are merely general guidelines aimed at helping you understand the allotted time. These time frames apply unless you're getting a very small portrait, a larger one with much intricate detail, or if I am working on several projects.

Updates will be sent to you throughout the progress.

In the end the painting will be as original and priceless to the owner as the people within it.

It will be a true heirloom, enjoyed for generations to come.

Any travel, framing and shipping expenses and sales tax are in addition to the portrait estimate.

I will do my best to provide absolute satisfaction.

*The Process

Consultation The process starts with a consultation between the artist and the client. This is when you discuss the vision, style, size, and setting of the portrait, along with the client's preferences for background, pose, and mood.

Reference Material Photos are usually provided as a reference. The better the quality of the photos, the more accurate and detailed the portrait will be.

Sketch and Composition Based on the reference images and consultation, the artist will create a preliminary sketch to plan the composition and proportions.

Approval The client may be shown the sketch for approval before moving on to the painting phase.

Underpainting I begin by blocking in the basic shapes and tones using a monochromatic or limited color palette, often in shades of brown or gray. This stage establishes the light and shadow and provides a foundation for the later layers.

Building Layers of Color I gradually adds color, beginning with broad strokes and basic values. Oil paints dry slowly, allowing for smooth blending and subtle transitions.

Details and Refinement After the first layer dries, more details are added, focusing on facial features, texture, and nuances. The paint is built up in layers to achieve depth, luminosity, and realism. I then refine the details, ensuring the likeness, color balance, and overall composition are perfect.

Glazing Thin layers of translucent paint, known as glazes, are applied to modify colors and create a rich, glowing effect. This technique enhances the depth and realism of the portrait.

Drying Once the painting is complete, it needs ample time to dry thoroughly. Oil paintings can take several weeks to dry depending on the thickness of the paint.

Varnishing After drying, a protective varnish is applied to protect the painting from dust and environmental factors, and to give the colors a unified finish.

Framing The portrait may be framed if requested by the client.

Delivery The completed portrait is then delivered (or shipped) to the client.