Commissioning a portrait can be quite daunting. It is important to think through carefully what you want or expect from the experience and to discuss this thoroughly with the professional representative of the Western Australian Portrait Artists. Some simple steps to help you in the process.

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Choosing an artist
When exploring our website, you are likely to encounter several artists whose styles and portraits align with your individual idea and preferences. The selection process is inherently subjective. It is also important to consider your budget, as pricing varies among artists. To assist you in selecting an artist and ensuring a positive experience, we provide the support of our experienced and professional Commissioning Liaison.

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Conversations with our commissioning liaison

The following step involves creating a shortlist of preferred artists and providing detailed information about the commission, including approximate size, number of people in the painting, budget, and desired completion time frame. Submit your request via email to our representative (see contact below). Our Commissioning Liaison will answer your questions and email you a document with information on individual artists’ portrait painting process, pricing structure and the timeframe the individual artists complete commissions. We recommend dedicating sufficient time to review the diverse range of artists featured in the document. Once you have selected an artist or multiple artists, kindly notify our liaison.

 

​Reaching an agreement

Subject to availability, some of the selected artists will respond to your request with a quote for the commission. The quote includes payment schedule, number of meetings required, description of painting method (oils, watercolour etc.) and painting support (canvas, paper etc.), size of the final work, presentation (unframed or description of framing), time schedule (meeting schedule, completion time), copyright and delivery method.

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The cost of a portrait - Some examples
Portrait pricing is determined by factors such as size, complexity, medium, additional time commitments (including the number of meetings and travel), specifically requested backgrounds, intricate clothing, and the inclusion of extra figures. Pricing also varies depending on the artist’s experience and reputation. For instance, a small, head-and-shoulder sketch in charcoal on paper may begin at $200 with an emerging artist, while the same work by an established artist could be priced at $500. All portrait commissions are quoted individually following a discussion of specific requirements.

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The Portrait sitting
Artists employ a variety of approaches when creating a portrait; some may choose to work from a single, highly detailed photographic session, while others may favour working from life, conducting several meetings to complete sketches and studies prior to finalising the painting. Many artists utilise a combination of these methods, producing a series of studies from life as well as capturing photographs to serve as reference material.

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By comparing quotes, you will be able to make a final choice.

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Completing the Portrait
Once you have selected your preferred artist, you and the artist will schedule a mutually agreeable time for the portrait sitting.

Commissioning Liaison contact: jane@justquietly.nz
 

With careful choice and right communication, commissioning a portrait will be a

rewarding and special experience.