Whether you want a custom “TRAIT” or any other commissioned work of art, the processes are similar. I will need a written description of the theme, content and size of the piece as a baseline from which I can provide an estimate. From there, we should have a more in-depth discussion (either email, phone or in person) as to what you would like in terms of style, content, and direction, what the environment where the work will reside is like, and any other information you wish to convey.

1. Get your stuff together

Gather up a few photos of the people/places/things you want included in your painting. They don’t have to be great photos, just something that truly captures the personality that you want portrayed. If you want to add any additional icons, images, or ideas for how you might want to portray the ‘soul”, bring those too. Or we can arrange to shoot some, depending on the subject and local, at a rate of $100 per hour. Space. Figure out where you might want your new Trait portrait or commissioned artwork, and take rough measurements. Vertical or horizontal? Square? This is really important, so make sure you have a decent idea of your space requirement. Size matters, so you might want to make sure your size requirements are in line with your budget.

2. Call Me: 512-517-8733

Or email at Larry@jollydesign.com. We meet and discuss your ideas; my NW Austin studio, your home, Starbucks... whatever works for you. I listen, provide feedback, show samples, make sketches, talk budget and timeline. Once general objectives and budget are agreed upon, a 50% deposit is paid, and I get working.

3. I Paint

But first I do sketches, either oldschool by pencil, or in  Photoshop, or some combination. I share my ideas with you, and get general buy-in. Remember that unlike other creative processes, once paint is applied to canvas, re-do’s are not really possible. The process of working through a painting is iterative, progressive, and highly subjective.

4. Voila!

 If there are any last minute creative issues to be setteled, I may ask you to come by the studio and take a look. Upon completion, I will wait til the painting is dry and ready to hang before delivery. Please allow 2-3 weeks from start to finish, depending on size and complexity. Upon curing (at least 2-3 months), I ask that the painting be brought back in to be varnished. I can also assist with framing or hanging if desired.

Interested in a Custom Artwork? Click here.