COMMISSIONING A PORTRAIT
I admit it. I'm an artist cliché. I have no head for business. I abhor discussing money. And I'd rather read the assembly instructions for an IKEA wall unit than persuade someone to buy my work.
Unfortunately, it's something of an occupational necessity. So here goes.
I believe walls are for art, and that everyone should have paintings or drawings of the people they love displayed for their own enjoyment and that of their guests. Photographs are wonderful things, but there's something incomparable about the presence and impact of an oil portrait.
We live in an age in which we're inundated with digital media screaming for our attention. It is, by design, ephemeral and fleeting.
For most of us, our phones have become the photo albums of yesteryear. We fill our phones with dozens or even hundreds of images of our loved ones, but we only see those images by scrolling through endless torrents of data before then struggling to see them on a tiny six-inch screen. This is enormously convenient when we're out and about and want to share our lives with someone.
But home is a different story altogether. Do you want a visitor to your home to sit patiently while you get lost in your iPhone, scrolling thousands of images in search of that one amazing photo you took of your daughter at her Sweet Sixteen —"Oh, and don't pay attention to the other people in the photo or the dirty dishes on the table."—or would you rather they enter your home and be immediately captivated by a stunning, life-sized, picture-perfect oil portrait of her, in which every element is there by design?
So, what makes this sales pitch "high-pressure"? Time.
Time, I'm sad to report, does not wait indefinitely while you spend years deliberating about commissioning a portrait while never quite committing to the process.
Children grow and change at lightning speed. Your 13-year-old child bears little resemblance to their 8-year-old self and before you now it, they'll be away at college or taking a job across the country. Your elderly parent may not always be as healthy and vibrant as they are today. As the saying goes, there really is no time like the present.
Alright. So I've just made a very strong case for why you should commission an oil portrait of your loved one(s).
But then why should you commission that portrait specifically from me?
You shouldn't, unless you absolutely love my work and feel confident that what I provide is worth the considerable investment you're about to make (which I'll take as a sign of your intelligence and discernment). But only you can decide if you think I'm worth it.
I know I do.
MY HIGH-PRESSURE SALES PITCH
COMMISSION PROCEDURE
Above: The distinguished Dr. Frank Fechteler with his finished portrait, photographed in the artist’s Berlin studio.
Below is a detailed overview of every step of the commissioned portrait procedure, from initial talks to final unveiling.
To illustrate each stage of the process, accompanying images are shared with the kind permission of Dr. Frank Fechteler.
1. Private Consultation& Reservation
Every portrait begins with a private consultation between artist and client, conducted via video, phone, or in person. Together they explore the subject’s story, personality, and intended environment, as well as wardrobe, scale, and the emotional tone that will shape the final piece. These insights allow the work to harmonize both visually and symbolically with its future surroundings.
Following this conversation, a bespoke proposal is prepared outlining scope, timeline, creative direction, and investment structure. Upon approval, a signed agreement formalizes the commission, establishing clear expectations and protecting the interests of both client and artist. A 50% retainer then secures the reservation and initiates the creative process.
2. Optional Preliminary Sitting
Above: Preliminary photographs of Frank, taken in the artist’s studio to explore angle and lighting.
An optional informal sitting allows for a deeper understanding of the subject's natural expressions and demeanor, enriching the authenticity and depth of the final portrait. During this relaxed session, photographs are taken in varied lighting and attire to explore multiple directions. For high-profile or time-constrained clients, a curated portfolio of personal photographs may be submitted in lieu of a sitting. In either case, artist and client collaborate to select the imagery that best conveys the subject’s true presence.
3. Compositional Photography
Above: Various pose and wardrobe options photographed in Frank’s home, reflecting his request for an informal portrait with a casual, understated style—holding his cherished book, Gedichte und Prosa.
Once a visual direction has emerged, a formal photo session is arranged—either in the studio or on location. The goal here is precision. Lighting, posture, and atmosphere are refined, with a focus on emotional nuance. When client expectations diverge from artistic instinct, we explore both perspectives through photography. The strongest concept becomes the foundation for the painting.
4. Sketch & Approval
Above: Draft composition of Frank; subtle modifications were incorporated after review.
A compositional sketch is submitted for approval before brush meets canvas. This stage offers an opportunity for further collaboration and minor refinement, ensuring alignment before the final work begins.
5. The Painting Process
Over two to six months, each portrait is meticulously crafted using time-honored techniques, ensuring a harmonious blend of realism and emotional resonance. Clients receive regular updates—via studio visits, photographs, or video. At a midpoint in the process, additional visuals are provided along with a second installment invoice. Any refinements requested at this stage are thoughtfully integrated.
6. Presentation, Framing & Unveiling
The finished Painting: Frank, 2009, Oil Painting on Belgian Linen. 55 cm x 72 cm
Once the painting is complete and properly cured for safe handling, a private unveiling may be arranged—either at the client’s residence or a mutually agreed-upon setting. This moment offers the opportunity to view the finished portrait in person and celebrate its completion with intention.
Framing consultation is available to ensure the portrait’s presentation aligns with both aesthetic and archival goals. Hand delivery or insured shipping can be arranged, and recommendations for lighting and display are provided to support optimal installation.
Final varnish is applied after a curing period of 6–12 months, either by the artist at a later date or through a trusted local professional.
This closing stage marks the culmination of a thoughtful, collaborative process—a portrait destined to endure.
Commission Investment
Each portrait is a unique collaboration, tailored to honor the subject and the story behind it.
Investment is stratified according to scale and complexity. As the scope of the portrait expands, so too does the expected timeline—ranging from several months for simpler compositions to 12 months or more for multi-figure, large-scale works.
Each commission is approached with care, discretion, and artistic integrity.
If you are considering a portrait, we invite you to begin the conversation.