Portraits and Commissions

An original portrait makes a unique and lasting gift to be cherished for a lifetime. It can be done in the soft traditional look of a pencil drawing or as a “living colour” canvas painting. I love painting children and pets, and also have completed anniversary portraits, family portraits and nude portraits.
The price depends on the complexity of the composition and your choice of art medium (oils, watercolour or pencil). As an example, the price of an oil portrait starts from $1000 (“Head&Shoulders” composition with plain background, approximately 40×50 cm)
When I am commissioned to create a portrait, I take great care in learning as much as I can about my subject. I enjoy working with the client, as together we come up with ideas to celebrate loved ones with a unique and lasting portrait. Discussion with the client is welcome and necessary throughout the portrait procedure. Of utmost importance is a trusting relationship between the painter and the client. It is in my clients’ best interest to accept input and assistance in choosing the setting, wardrobe, pose and lighting for the subject of the painting. The poses can be formal or not, and the background can be abstract or impressionistic, or an image of a particular landscape or interior.
First, I create several variants of colour sketches for your approval, with different colour and composition decisions. Only if you are happy with the initial design I start working on the final artwork. At this stage, non –refundable 25% deposit is paid. Life posing is very important, and preferably at least two life sittings are required. Alternatively, I can work from photographs provided by the client or, if possible, those I take myself.
I keep working on the painting until you are fully satisfied. The oil painting can be varnished after it is fully dry (in about 3 month after the completion), and I can assist with framing. I can also provide a signed, limited edition of the original art printed on canvas or fine art paper. This is a wonderful way to expand the gift of a commissioned portrait to others who share in the love of the subject of that art.
The same image can be used to create unique and personal postcards and notecards. The possibilities are many! I retain the reproduction rights of all my art.
Please contact me for more information.
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Natalia Balo