Commissions
Commissions come in all shapes and sizes. From initial sketch to the finished painting, each commission highlights a moment that is precious to you. I am always honored to share this creation process with you, to create a heirloom out of what inspires you most.
Portraits of humans, pets- past or present, or living in a magical realm are all possible with a little creativity. Bring your ideas, inspirations, and memories to the creation process.
Here is a summary of what to expect from the commission process.
See the process behind…
…this piece when you click the link. It will take you to a reel showing the quick version of its creation.
A collector tells her story
“Ariane` is such an incredibly talented artist. Her use of color and detail really speaks to me. I am absolutely in love with how she made my tattoos and the background more abstract. She focused on the love and connection of Chris and I. I cried when I opened it. This really is such a meaningful gift. Ariane, I can’t thank you enough for creating something so beautiful for us that I will treasure for a lifetime.”
~Jenasie Earl
Photo Reference
is an important piece of the commission process. Well lit, quality photographs will be very important. It can be difficult when the subject has crossed that rainbow bridge, but I will not shy away from multiple references or pooling references together. This is especially useful if you choose a ‘magical realism’ style portrait. My work is often described as realism, surrealism and whimsical fantasy work. Please let me know what piece has inspired you to collect a custom work.
When possible I enjoy taking the reference photograph myself in a photo session. If you are local this is always an option.
HOWEVER- Vintage photos have their own charm and I am able to work with older photos as well.
If you have a pet that is shy it may be preferable for you to take the photo.
Disclaimer: I cannot use a photograph taken by a professional photographer. However if you own the rights, that allows you to reproduce the photo, or I receive the photographer’s written permission then I can use their work to paint from.
Photo by Kat Friebe, Part of the Mother Project
Vintage photos have their own charm
This was painted from a small vintage photo, it was so small it fit in my palm. This painting is 10X10 inches (this is a crop). If you have an old photo you would love to capture in paint, it is 100% possible!
Portraits in oils are a legacy
Oil vs Watercolor
Options are a great thing to have.
Luckily, since I work in two different forms of painting I’m able to offer the choice of what medium to have your portrait painted with. “Medium” is the type of paint a painting is done in.
Oils have a very solid look, while watercolor is more opaque.
Meaning watercolor captures the natural movement of water itself in the pigments that are left when it dries.
Oils are vibrant and the vehicle of many master's paintings.
Both have a lovely appearance.
See below and to the sides for examples.
The Sketch
After deciding size I might share the sketch or composition of your photo over email or some other digital format for your consideration. My goal is to create a thoughtful sketch that conveys our plan but can have a ‘messier’ appearance than the final piece. If you have any questions or concerns now is the time to talk about them. When we are happy with it I will then paint the painting.
Please see below for works in oils on canvas and board.
Watercolors give a soft, dreamlike look
*This Portrait was painted in Watercolors.
Faith Like a Child was selected for the Biennial International Portrait Competition in Wausau, WI.
The Painting
When the painting is complete you will receive the final bill. When the painting is dry, I will lovingly pack and ship your painting to you.
My price for a commissioned piece is about 15% more than a painting I have for sale in my shop. The reason being that we are creating a piece together and this takes time to achieve. You can expect your painting in 4-6 weeks depending on scale and time of year. All commissioned pieces begin after a 50% deposit to secure the spot is made, the remaining balance + shipping (if applicable) is due once the painting is complete. If you would like a tailored Payment plan, that can be arranged. Feel free to ask!
Then all that’s left is to treasure your real, tangible work of art for years to come.
Fill out the form below to get more details on pricing, etc
***Artist retains copyright to all Commissioned works. Please see Terms of Use for details.*** I retain the exclusive right to reproduce paintings for future marketing purposes, in my portfolio, etc. Bespoke commissioned paintings are intended for your personal use exclusively. Please do not copy, resell, or redistribute my work without my written permission.
Please see below for watercolor works on paper.
“An artist is not paid for his labor but for his vision.”