Artist's Process

An oil painting and archival and should last for centuries.  To create fine portraiture, Jan works in oils on hand-woven Belgian linen and use only the highest quality materials.

Jan begins the process by getting to know her client and discussing ideas for the portrait. Together, you will select clothing for the sitting and any props that might enhance the painting before scheduling a photography session.

Making use of advances in digital technology, Jan paints from my photos taken of the subject during a one-time sitting.

Superior portraiture is founded on classical principles of light and shadow. When lighting a subject for fine art portraiture, Jan always ensures that the person is lit by natural, indirect, interior daylight. Flat lighting is suitable for identification cards; photographic lighting produces good photographs; and spangled lighting effects often appear in candid photography. Rarely are these same choices right for a painted portrait.

After the sitting, Jan sends the photo, on which I intend to base the portrait, to the client for approval. If the background needs modification, then Jan and the client think together about ways to make the composition more aesthetically satisfying and personally meaningful.

The painting begins when all above decisions are made. When the portrait has taken shape, Jan sends a photo of the work in progress to keep the client informed about the development of the painting (and invite mid-course alterations, as needed).
When the work is completed, Jan will send a photo to the client. There is a two-to-three week drying time after which an initial varnish is applied. If the client is within reasonable driving distance, Jan will deliver the painting. If that is not possible, then a crate will be made and the painting will be shipped via FedEx. After one year, Jan will apply the final varnish, or make arrangements for it to be done locally.

Jan strives to create a portrait that is a perfect physical and spiritual likeness of the subject. When done with taste and skill, fine art portraiture becomes part of one's personal history and remains for other generations to enjoy, not only as "grandmother" or "father" but also as a work of art.

Pricing
Prices shown are base price only. The final price may vary according to the complexity of the background composition, such as the inclusion of a highly detailed still life, or elaborately nuanced architectural and drapery features.

Prices do not include framing. Round-trip airfare and expenses associated with overnight travel, including meals, are additional. Travel expenses are billed at cost.

A deposit of 50% is required before work begins, with the final 50% payable upon completion.

                 Head & shoulders       3/4 figure        Fullfigure           Additional figure

Children            7,500                       20,000         25,000 -30,000               50% list

Adults              10,000                      30,000         40,000 -45,000               50% list

Complex           TBD                          TBD                    TBD                            TBD
backgrounds

7/07