If you wish to discuss a possible commission, contact me by email (tatabark@gmail.com), and we can meet or talk by phone to begin a discussion to see if you wish to commission a painting or drawing.
Preliminary discussion will cover:
- Your desires and vision for the work
- The medium (oil, watercolor, pencil)
- The size
- Whether the painting will be done from life or photographs
- When you need the painting to be finished
- Pricing
When you decide to commission a painting, I will create a contract that reflects the above points. A non-refundable deposit of one-half the fee is due upon signature of the contract. In the event that you are not satisfied with the finished portrait, the contract allows for you to decline the work and not pay the balance. This has never happened in my experience, but this arrangement protects you while giving me remuneration for the time and effort put into the commissioned piece.
At this point, I begin work on the image, either through life drawings or photographs. If I am going to work from photographs, it is critical that I find or take photos from which I feel confident that I can produce a sensitive and beautiful painting that captures the subject’s personality and spirit. This is often a difficult task, since many smiling snapshots and flash photos are inappropriate for a portrait. I may need to take photos myself or take the time to review your photo archives.
I will work diligently with you to meet your desires and to employ my highest artistic judgment and skill.
