The first step with commissioning a portrait starts with the discussion of subject to be portrayed and expectations of the overall piece. Will it be of one person or multiple people? Is there a preference for a photo realistic portrait verses a more "painterly" style? Preference for indoor or outdoor location? How much of the subject would you like shown (head and shoulders, three-quarter figure, full figure)? If possible, I prefer to have this initial meeting in person so I can get more familiar with the person to be painted and the surroundings in the home.
After we have agreed upon a general understanding of what the portrait will look like, we will set a time to take pictures. I work with professional photographers that are trained in traditional photography and have a great understanding of lighting and how to make people look their best for a formal portrait. I will be on set during the photo shoot to help direct and assist the photographers. Once the final image has been selected, a 50% deposit will be required to begin the painting.
You will be able to review the portrait once the painting is complete, but before it is varnished. Any adjustments to the painting can be done at this time. Once the painting is complete and has your approval, the remaining balance of the portrait is due. The portrait will need to thoroughly dry before being varnished which can take 6 months, but the painting will be able to be framed in the meantime once the painting is dry to the touch.
While this may seem like a complicated process, it is only designed so that you will be 100% satisfied with the finished piece.
Please contact me with any further questions!
About Me
- Jamie Lott Wilson
- I am a new emerging portrait artist in Birmingham, AL. I started learning to paint in oil at the age of 12. I am a graduate from the University of Alabama with a Bachelors of Art degree in painting. Over the years I have experimented with several different styles, but I have always enjoyed painting people the most. Almost all of my favorite works of art throughout history have had some sort of figure in them. For me, there is much more of an emotional connection to a piece when it has a human figure in it. As a new mother, I now experience the bond that a parent has with their child. As a portrait artist I want to help families capture their loved ones in a timeless piece that reflects their own unique character. I like to learn about the individual's likes, behavior, habits etc and include something in the piece that reflects their personality. I like to create a piece that the family can enjoy and reflect upon a certain time in their life, but also keep the piece timeless and compose it in a way that even a stranger who doesn't know the subject can still appreciate the work.
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