Question 1

I am interested in commissioning a portrait, how does the process work?"

Accepted Answer

A custom commission is a very personal piece of art that will be cherished for a lifetime. Before accepting a commission Estee will determine if it is something that will fit her style as well as yours with the goal of creating the highest quality work that is loved by the client. If it is a portrait of a loved one that is deceased, the best option is to work from high-quality, photos. Estee prefers to meet people in real and do her own life studies before starting, if that is an option. She first begins with a design concept that is a combination of what your vision is and what she thinks would work best. It is important to trust the artist during this process, to allow for the proper creative flow that will make the final artwork a masterpiece! Before any work begins, you will approve the design, composition, color, medium & size.  Estee takes you with her every step of the way so there are only pleasant surprises at the end:)

Question 2

What are the different options you offer for a custom portrait or family commission?

Accepted Answer

A custom portrait is very personal. There are different styles you can choose from. The most popular and most affordable option is a monochrome colored portrait. That means the work is completed in one or two colors. Another option is full, realisitc, color. You can view the gallery below for some examples of the different styles.

This example was a portrait commission that the client wanted neutral gray tones. You can see the subtle colors of blue and gray, white and black all keep this subdued but highly impactful. The strokes are clearly visible and it allows for some movement and expression in the piece.

Question 3

What is a monochrome portrait?

Accepted Answer

A monochrome portrait means it is done in 1-3 colors. This is a timeless look that is one of my most popular commission style.  You can choose classic black & white, sepia add a  pop of color somewhere or have the entire thing done in any shade you want, pink, blue, gray..
 
This example was a portrait commission that the client wanted neutral gray tones. You can see the subtle colors of blue and gray, white and black all keep this subdued but highly impactful. The strokes are clearly visible and it allows for some movement and expression in the piece.

Question 4

Can you please show me more examples of a monochrome style portrait?

Accepted Answer

This commission was done in black and white and blue was used to add a modern twist. 
 
 This commission was done in black and white as well but the warmer background color makes it softer. The unfinished edges add visual interest as well. 
 
 Another style is to use a monochrome color shceme but with very loose, expressive linework.

Question 5

What is a full color portrait?

Accepted Answer

A full color portrait commission is done with realistic colors covering the entire surface. It is not a copy of the reference photo except for the likeness of the subjects. Colors are changed, enhanced and added to create a work of art and not simply a copy of a photo.

Question 6

Can you provide more info about a custom family portrait?

Accepted Answer

Family portraits are really special. Instead of just sending me a photo of your family smiling at the camera I prefer to create a s scene that tells your family story. I photograph and sketch from life your family in different compositions and take you along with me every step of the way. 
 
 In this example the children are in an environment that tells a story about them and their lives. You can choose full color or monochrome.

Question 7

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

Creating art is never a linear process. Estee is usually working on multiple commissions or projects. To ensure you receive your work as soon as possible, we recommend reaching out as soon as you can. An estimated time frame is usually around 2-4 weeks.

Question 8

How does pricing work?

Accepted Answer

Price is dependent on many factors including the overall size of the comission, the subject matter... the medium. Monochrome portraits will be less than a full colored one simply because there are not as many layers and it does not take as much time to complete. The amount of people in a portrait will affect the price as well as the size.  If you are interested in a price quote please contact Estee.

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