Watercolor Commissions

Frequently Asked Questions

A commissioned original watercolor painting is not intended to be an exact replica of the subject or landscape — I do my best to create a close likeness to the animal/subject and capture its/their personality. A painting is not a photograph and does include some creative licenses by the artist.

Furthermore, these frequently asked questions are geared toward watercolor pet portraits, however they are relevant for all watercolor commissions. My area of specialty is animals and landscapes. I particularly enjoy pet portraits that incorporate a sense of place. I do take a limited number of human portraits, though please inquire before placing an order.

➳ Do you accept commissions?

I am not currently accepting commissions.

➳ What are 2024 size and price options (I adjust pricing annually based on cost of materials, comparable artists’ prices, and demand for my work)?

I offer two options to meet different needs and budgets:

Custom Illustrations

• Small original works of art. These are loose, whimsical and perfect for small spaces and special occasions. They range (inches) from 4x4 to 5x7 ($70 to $110) and sized to easily slip into a store bought frame of your choosing.

• These also scan well and can be easily reproduced as a custom set of personalized blank notecards.

Fine Art Watercolor Commissions

• Larger works of art exhibiting depth and detail. They range (inches) from 8x10 (for one subject only) up to 16x20 with pricing variations to account for number of subjects and complexity. Pricing begins at $345 and up.

• Custom sizes are available by request and estimates are calculated by the square inch. I am happy to accommodate custom sizing up to 36 inches on the longest side. My small studio becomes a touch too cramped for anything larger at this time.

• These too can be scanned or photographed for reproduction as a custom set of personalized notecards with a touch more file preparation.

➳ Do you accept International orders (outside the continental US)?

I do! However I handle the shipping costs separately. Furthermore I work with FedEx or the USPS. I can use DHL if that’s best for you, though I may have to charge a bit extra because the closest shipping location is about an hour away from where I live/work. For sure contact me before placing an order for any and all questions for international orders.

Additionally, International orders may be levied duties by your country’s customs office. You are responsible for any import duties during shipping. Customs policies vary widely from country to country and I recommend contacting your local customs office for further information.

➳ What do you need?

I work from the photos you provide, and sending more than one photo is helpful, especially if your hope is to create something unique and special inspired by a specificl location, memory, or wish to incorporate unique elements to the final piece.

➳ What if I don't have any good pictures? What if they are a little blurry?

I can work from your photos even if they are blurry or poorly lit. This is where my career as a photographer comes in handy! I quite often edit submitted images to help make out important details. This is also why sending multiple photos and any helpful notes (i.e., eye color or geographic location) is especially useful. I will often come up with a custom composition based on multiple photos to create a special painting. Furthermore, I will always share sketches and mock-ups with you PRIOR to starting the final piece of art.

➳ I'm not sure which image would be best.

Send the photos you love most of your pet, person or cherished memory/place, and I am happy to provide advice on what I can or can not do, and what I think would make a nice portrait. Furthermore, do NOT feel locked into a traditional “head & shoulders” image. If what you hope to convey in the commission is a special moment in time, experience, or event - I prefer and find the most satisfaction working on commissions that illustrate real life and one’s personality. Candid moments translate beautifully in watercolor paintings and are an honor to create.

➳ How do I send you pictures?

Once your order is placed, you will have the option to email or text me your reference photos. I do not require a high resolution file, though I do prefer a good quality image to zoom in for specific details like eye color variations.

➳ Can you tell me a little more about the process of ordering a commission?

Commissioned art requires time. Depending on the scope of work that can be 1 week to 12 months. Therefore, before placing an order, consider when you would like to receive the completed work and if you have questions or concerns about schedule, please contact me. Otherwise, once I receive your order via the website, if you have not already submitted reference photos, those will be requested, we’ll go over any questions, concept, etc.. I will stay in-touch with you throughout creation period, sharing process photos and making sure I’m hitting the mark. I will share the completed artwork with you prior to shipping. Once shipped you will receive tacking information.

➳ What do I receive?

You will receive an unframed, signed, hand-painted original piece of custom artwork. High quality, sturdy (300 gsm / 140 lb), 100% Cotton paper. Archival and acid-free (which means it should not yellow over time and last for generations).

I do not offer framing for anything larger than a 5x7 due to the risk of damage during shipping. To make framing easier, I do work with standard sizes that fit perfectly in frames purchased at your favorite retailer.

➳ When do I pay the final balance for my commission?

Payment is received at the time of ordering. Payment options are available via. AfterPay and/or PayPal. One-time payments processed via. Apple Pay, Stripe, and/or PayPal.

➳ What materials do you use?

I only work with archival quality paints/pigments and paper. Specifically, Daniel Smith Watercolors, Greenleaf and Blueberry Hand-made Watercolors, ARCHES and Fabriano Artistico 100% Cotton 140lb Cold Pressed Watercolor Paper (has a texture to it), and Fabriano Artistico 100% Cotton 140ln Hot Pressed Watercolor Paper (smooth matte finish).

➳ What is the turn-around time from order to receiving my painting(s)?

This varies greatly from one commission to the next. If you have a set date (i.e. a birthday or wedding, etc.) please contact me prior to placing your order to ensure I can meet your desired time-line. Custom illustrations have a quicker turn around (7-10 days) while fine art commissions range grateful depending on the scope of work.

➳ I’ve received my painting, how do I ensure it last a lifetime?

Excellent question! Original watercolor paintings preserve best when professionally framed behind GLASS and hung on walls NOT exposed to harsh UV lighting that will fade the colors over time. Furthermore, do not hang them in areas exposed to high humidity (i.e. bathrooms). With that said, most of my artwork/commissions are made to fit standard frame sizes you can pickup and frame yourself. Professional framing is not required, only encouraged if you have a framer and the budget. Please don’t have that keep you from buying original art from either myself or others.

➳ What if my painting is damaged on arrival?

I do my absolute best to ensure commissioned artwork arrives safe and sound. Each painting is enclosed/wrapped in an acid-free sealed bag/covering, secured to a piece of cardboard, and shipped in a stiff mailer (or flat box) that is well labeled ‘DO NOT BEND.’ Once shipped I do have to entrust the USPS/Carrier to handle the package properly, and will provide you with tracking information to ensure someone can be home to receive it. In the unlikely event of damage, please notify me immediately and we’ll work out a solution ASAP.

➳ What if I don’t like it?

Here’s hoping we don’t cross this bridge. However, if we do, I will do my best to make necessary adjustments or provide a partial refund if necessary. I will share progress images of the painting to help ensure you love the final piece of artwork prior to receiving it.