As noted in “About the Artist.” Mr Hales employs a process that assures that the client is involved with each phase of their portrait. During the initial meeting the artist discusses with the client a profile of the subject (s), their interests, hobbies, professions, the overall mood to be portrayed, etc. Also, specific elements are reviewed: whether it is to be an indoor or outdoor setting; formal or informal dress; painting size; if depiction of the subject will be shown as head only or positions up to full size; background desired; or what unique elements might be included in the painting.

Often the artist will make a few preliminary sketches incorporating some of the possibilities for the painting. The next step is a photo session following the preliminary concepts. (Mr Hales brings to this phase a lifetime of photograpic experience, both private and professional.) This session may take an hour or two depending on the factors involved. In the case of children, it is not uncommon to work in phases around their interest level and nap times. As time permits during this session or later, sketches are made of the face to provide the opportunity for recording correct color and features.

Based on these images the client is shown photos and sketches, that, in the artist’s judgment, would lend themselves to meeting the goal of the portrait. These are discussed and developed into the next phase. For the larger size portraits involving more than just a head and shoulder rendition, a full size charcoal-graphite sketch is developed. This offers the client visualization of all the elements including size, likeness, composition, and background of the final oil painting. Then the final portrait will be painted in oil on Belgian linen. Upon completion and as necessary, the subject may be asked to sit for a short session to make refinements of likeness, coloring, etc. The process for graphite/charcoal is similar, but with fewer steps.

Pricing

Investing in a portrait is similar to any other fine arts painting. The commission fee is based on factors including the size of the painting, number of sub jects, extent of background detail such as library, cars, etc., and the type of medium.

Current fees for oil portraits begin at $2,500 for a head study of a single subject. Charcoal/graphite portraits begin at $400. Each additional subject increases the basic fee by 50%. Travel expenses and frames are not included in the fee, but the artist will work with the client in selection of a frame that is appropriate for the painting and its intended placement..

The fee is paid beginning with one third deposit, one third upon competition of the studies, and the balance upon completion of the portrait.