Portrait Commissions
Whether you're looking for a meaningful anniversary, wedding or birthday gift, or a portrait for your own home, a commissioned oil painting is a beautiful way to celebrate someone you love. I create colourful, expressive portraits that capture not only a person's likeness, but also their personality and character. From choosing the right reference photos to the final framed painting, I'll guide you through the whole process, making it simple and enjoyable so you end up with a one-of-a-kind artwork that will make you smile for years.
How it works
1. Get in touch
If you’re thinking about a portrait, you’re very welcome to get in touch. Tell me a little about who you’d like painted and, if you have them, share a few favourite photos.
You don’t need to have everything figured out at this stage, I can help you choose the best images and guide you through the rest.
If you’re based locally, you’re also welcome to visit my studio in The Hague, where I can take reference photos for your portrait myself.
2. Planning your portrait
Once I’ve seen your photos and we’ve talked through your ideas, I’ll recommend the best size and composition for your portrait. I’ll also answer any questions you might have so you feel confident before moving forward.
If you decide to go ahead, a 50% deposit secures your place in my painting schedule.
3. Painting your portrait
Your portrait is painted entirely by hand in oils over several weeks, building up layers of colour, light, and detail.
Because oil paintings develop in stages, I usually only share work once it is close to completion, when the final image is fully coming together. At that point, I’ll send you a preview so you can see the portrait and request any adjustments before it is completed.
Your happiness with the final result is very important to me, I want you to feel confident and excited about the finished painting.
4. The finished piece
Once everything is complete, your portrait is carefully finished and prepared for delivery. Framing is available as an option if you would like it arranged. It is then securely packaged and shipped to you, or you’re welcome to collect it from my studio in The Hague.
Get in touch
Whether you already have a clear idea or are just exploring the possibility of a portrait, you’re very welcome to get in touch. I’m always happy to answer questions and help you decide what would work best.
If you’re ready to get started, you can also fill in my commission form here.
If you’d like to get a sense of pricing first, you can view starting prices here, or simply message me if you’d prefer to talk it through.
FAQ
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That’s completely fine. I can help you choose from what you have, enhance photos for you or advise on taking new reference photos. If you’re local, you’re also welcome to visit my studio so I can take them for you.
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Yes, in many cases I can combine different photos to create a composition that feels natural and balanced. We can discuss what works best for your idea.
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Most portraits take around 4–8 weeks, depending on size and complexity. I’ll always give you a clearer timeframe when we plan your piece.
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A 30 - 50% deposit secures your place in my painting schedule. The remaining balance is paid once the portrait is complete and ready for delivery.
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Yes, portraits can be shipped safely worldwide and are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in perfect condition. I will provide a shipping quote during the planning stage, based on a few different carrier options.
Portrait commission examples