Commemorative Portraits for Young Couples

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Should you be painted?
In an age of high quality, instant photography and, on the whole, smaller living space in which to hang portraits, this is a good question. Marriage itself brings with it a virtual flood of photographic memory. This goes into an album. The album goes on a shelf. It will always be treasured but, as marriage continues, will probably be opened less and less. A painting, like a diamond ring, is in the words of De Beers 'forever'. You will be many things in your lifetime; you will never be: prettier, more handsome, younger, more full of hope for the future and joy in the present than you are right now. Portraits take time to do well. Viewers (such as your children and grandchildren) will take time to look.

How should 'you' be painted?
You might find a single portrait or a double portrait of most worth. But there are other interesting choices that you may want to consider. A portrait of your first home can be of lasting value. Or one of a special animal that both of you care for. Or for a montage painting which might include the church in which you marry, the place where you met and personal items of meaning all woven carefully into a larger whole. The montage is an interesting idea because it can be incorporated into useful furniture, i.e. a firescreen or a 3-panel room divider, for instance. One item in it could be a combined family tree with perhaps some space left to include children later. There is a great deal of shared fun in selecting the choices. The art of collage can be used a well, i.e. pressed flowers, ribbon, sepia photographs of parents, etc.

How do I work?
Initially, I meet with both of you for about an hour to get the feeling of who you are and what would be most meaningful in terms of a portrait choice. A single (or double) portrait takes at least a further three sittings of an hour or so each (for each person) spaced two weeks apart. As a rule, I prefer to come to you, so that you are portrayed in your own environment and light. I will begin with a loose 'working' pastel and often use a camera.

What will it cost?
For commissioned work, I like to receive half of the agreed price at the start and half on completion, but for more expensive portraits, time payments are acceptable. Prices do not include frame