1) After your initial inquiry, the artist will meet with you either at her Garland, TX studio or at your home to get to know you better and gain a clear understanding of your vision for the portrait. At this time, size, number of subjects, and background elements will be discussed, as well as the time frame for the portrait. The portrait fee will be based on these elements and will be discussed and agreed upon at this time. You should also know where you want your portrait to be displayed, as this is crucial when deciding on a size.
2) Either a painting sitting (usually lasting 1-2 hours) or a photography session will then be scheduled at your convenience. Anna prefers to at least start the portrait working from life, but if this is not possible, she will work from her own photographs. She may work from the client's photos (must be high-quality) if the portrait is posthumous or from a special event, such as a wedding.
3) At the photo session or initial sitting, the client will sign a portrait commission contract and submit a deposit of 50% of the portrait fee. The contract may be viewed here.
4) Anna will create a mock-up of the portrait composition for your approval via email. Please note that the size originally agreed upon may be adjusted slightly for compositional purposes after the photo session.
5) Once the image has been decided on, the artist will begin the painting, using the finest paints and materials to ensure that the portrait will be of heirloom quality. Anna stretches and primes her own canvases (a 10-day process), working on Belgian portrait linen for a smoother working surface, and using only oil paints that have a proven lightfastness to stand the test of time.
6) Upon request, the artist may email pictures of her progress, and will keep you updated throughout the process. She will continue to work closely with you in order to create a piece that is beautiful, original and true to the subject's likeness and personality.
7) Portraits take 3-5 months to complete depending on their complexity. The artist will send a digital photo to the client to confirm the completion of the portrait. The remainder of the portrait fee is due upon delivery.
8) If desired, Anna will frame and ship at cost.
