C O M M I S S I O N I N G a n O R I G I N A L P A I N T I N G
I’m always looking for those timeless moments that capture the spirit of our kids and dogs. After a consultation with my client about the design of the desired painting, I’ll spend some time getting to know the subject(s), taking many photos, and making a sketch and color notes. We’ll discuss the photos at a second meeting, and usually take some more. If need be, l can work from a client’s own photos, provided they give me all the information, especially clear close-ups, that I need.
The portrait is then completed in the studio, where I paint detail that was dubbed “soft realism” by a happy client, and I like that very much! I paint many layers and glazes, building detail, depth and light. I use only the finest archival materials: Handmade Vasari Oil Paints (the best!), Old Masters mediums, on Claessens fine Belgian linen canvas that I stretch for each painting.
An example of my detailed painting process may be viewed in this slideshow: “Painting Duffy Morris”. Click here.
(If you're viewing on a phone, you may need to be in landscape mode to see the captions.)
Animal Portrait prices begin at $3,000. People Portraits begin at $4,500. Final prices are determined by pose, (head study to full body), number of subjects, setting and detail of background, and size of the finished painting. Please contact Karen Killian to request a quote for your particular project.
A deposit of 1/3 of quoted price is required to begin. This payment is non-refundable in order to compensate for the artist’s time, holding your spot in my schedule, initial design, photo and sketch work. On larger paintings only, another 1/3 may be requested during the middle of the painting process. The final balance is due upon your acceptance of the finished portrait.
Framing, shipping, and travel expenses are additional. Major Credit Cards and Zelle are accepted.
I do not include framing in my portrait prices because there is an endless supply of frame choices and prices. I believe that a frame should be chosen by the owners of the portrait to be in harmony with their taste and the setting where the portrait will hang. But I am always available to help in the framing process in any way that I can.
Commission prices are for the original oil painting. Copyright and reproduction rights remain with the artist and The Watermark Studio unless other arrangements are made in writing.
Karen Killian
The Watermark Studio
PO Box 111
Tryon, North Carolina 28782
860 . 460 . 5787
kk@watermarkstudio.com