PORTRAITS

From my toddler years to now I have been drawn to draw people in all forms of expressions and I'm so compulsive I carry pad and pen with me in my purse so I can draw them in restaurants, bus or train stations, airports, gas stations, supermarkets, church or simply lounging in the park. Children playing on park equipment moving quickly from one set to another are a special challenge in getting the energy and movement. Shadows on chiseled planes formed by the bone structure on a face fascinates me. Consequently, my file of sketches is bulging with head-shots penned or penciled from these various excursions. 

When commissioned to do a portrait I prefer to meet my model in person for a social chit-chat so I can get an idea of high interests, ideals and passions. Only in this way can I transfer the soul portion to the physical likeness without having to have obvious clues in the back or foregrounds. I place my model in such a way as to highlight the planes of the face --being careful to accentuate these with deep shadows for a dramatic effect. I take photos from several angles and do some black and white sketches with charcoal and then another in soft  pastel sticks. I work quickly and can sketch several pieces within a one hour sitting.

Because I'm convinced that most work requiires 80 per cent preparation and 20 per cent execution, I like to present a small colored sketch for approval  to the one who commissioned me. Because of the travel, time, artwork and materials involved, I do charge for the presentation. If the contract is signed this amount is deducted from the total.  If there is a change of mind, my time and material is financially covered.

The prices for black and white differ from those painted in color. The mediium of choice will determine the price as well. Pastels and acrylic renderings do not require a long drying time and are less expensive while oils require special handling and take longer to complete.  Payments can be spread over a set period of time with a 50% down-payment plus interest, or the payment can be made upon delivery with no interest charges.  Framing is up to the buyer although I am happy to assist in choosing an appropriate frame if the buyer so desires this counsel.