The process of creating the portrait begins with contact between the Artist and Client.
To begin, I will learn who is to be portrayed, and what size and concept you have in mind, if any.
I welcome questions; please don't be afraid to ask.



A gifted portrait artist does more than just paint a good likeness. He brings out the unique beauty of the individual, as seen through the eyes of those who love him or her. For instance, when I look at my beloved Aunt April, I don’t see an old lady with greying hair, I see a beautiful woman who is always graceful, always a lady. I see the sparkle in her eyes and the sweetness in her smile. A really talented portrait artist captures that.

Before I can form my visual concept of your loved one, I interview you about their personality, interests, accomplishments....funny little quirks.....what it is about that individual which endears him or her to you.


Because I receive commissions from all over the U.S., I use photography for reference back home in my studio. Looking through the lens and choosing each particular moment to press the shutter button is the next step in my creative process.

I'm very good at putting subjects at ease in front of a camera. Professional-level equipment and photographic abilities enable me to capture the gestures and expressions which make that person a unique individual.
It's not always practical for me to photograph the subject myself. Yes, I can use your photos for a portrait. I'll be happy to look at the photos you have and give you my input about using them as reference. I can also coach you on taking the photos we need for your portrait. This can be done by email.


For larger works, especially those portraying children, I often come up with a “script”, an activity that gives the subject something to do.
For instance, for the portrait of Kyla, a little girl with a collection of teddy bears, I chose “having a teaparty” as the script. An actual teaparty was held in their garden, with Kyla’s mom and teddy bears as the guests. Many charming photos which revealed Kyla’s personality resulted from this script.

Kyla’s mother, and her grandmother (who had commissioned the portrait) were consulted regarding which pose to use for the painting. In this pose, Kyla’s hand holding the cup showed “her grandpa’s hands”, a characteristic look of the hands that means a great deal to these clients.
Kyla’s hand

For major works, I like to hold several photography sessions of an hour or so each with the subject, spread over a period of 2 - 3 days.



Prior to travelling to meet the subject, a Portrait Contract will be signed and travel arrangements made. Travel expenses are paid by the client.



The Memorial portrait, a portrait of someone who has passed on, presents a particular challenge for the artist. Without the chance to meet the subject in person, the artist misses the opportunity to observe the gestures, expressions, and persona which make that individual unique and special. The artist must depend on existing photographs, and the treasured memories of those who knew him or her.

I have a particular talent for Memorial portraits, a special gift for capturing the essence of an individual without having met them. I've created many beautiful Memorial Portraits from clients' photos, which have brought joy and comfort to those who commissioned them.



Attractively presented custom Gift Certificates are available. Give your special someone the promise of a Fine Art portrait on that special occasion.


A deposit of 50% is required before work begins, with the final 50% payable upon completion.
Prices do not include framing or shipping.

Credit cards are accepted.
Size:
11 x 14
19 x 25
24 x 36
Head Study on plain background
Fees are for one individual.
Additional individuals in the same painting add 50% per person.
$900.
$2,200.
$3,200.
(Pet-only portrait) (625.) (1,450.) (1,900.)
Full Figure on plain background
Fees are for one individual.
Additional individuals in the same painting add 50% per person.
$600.00
$2,500.
$3,800.
(Pet-only portrait) $600.00 (1,800.) (2,480.)
Subject in fully detailed background
The fees shown are for simple-to-medium backgrounds. Fees increase with the complexity of background and number of individuals.
x
$4,000.
$7,000.
(Pet-only portrait) $600.00 (3,200.) (5,600.)
Grisaille
Grisaille paintings do not include photography services. They are created using your photos.
$525.
$850.
$600.00
About Grisaille $600.00 $600.00 $600.00
Download and print: Roeckl portrait fees.PDF

Top of page


Adults & Family | Children | Pets | Equine & Equestrian | About the Artist | Client Comments | New Work | Contact



All images and website ©Kevin Roeckl 2006