FAQ's

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do you only draw and paint portraits?

Not at all.  I love to draw and paint. Period.  The subject matter is irrelevant.  My favourite paintings have come from old photographs and represent heirlooms, keepsakes, memorabilia, old toys, vacation spots and much more.  If you have a photo you'd like to recreate as a painting, please get in touch.

2. How long will it take to receive my artwork?  

The time will vary depending on how many clients are in the queue.  Certain times of the year, such as the holiday season and Mother's Day will result in longer lead times.  When you make your deposit, you will be added to my calendar and given a start date. The completion date is generally within 2 weeks of that start date.

3. Can an order be expedited for an extra charge?

I always do my best to accommodate for special circumstances.  For an additional charge of 30% to be paid at the time of the deposit, I will give your portrait priority in the queue as long as it does not negatively impact my other clients.  This is generally not possible during the holiday season.  

4. Is my satisfaction guaranteed?

My business has been built entirely on delivering artworks that delight my clients, resulting in repeat customers, testimonials and referrals.  When we work together, I will send you a photo of the composition workup so that you can approve what we are working towards and make changes and suggestions.  You have the opportunity to request small tweaks and adjustments again before the work is finished.  I will rework the portrait up to 2x without additional charges in an effort to ensure your complete satisfaction.  Final payment is required before shipping or pickup of your custom artwork.  

5. Can you combine multiple photos into one composition?

Absolutely.  If you would like more than one subject in your composition, I can combine your high quality photos as long as the angles and lighting are at least similar.  We can work together to come up with a suitable arrangement, remembering that the finished piece relies heavily on the quality of the photos.  I am also happy to send you a tip sheet on taking suitable photos of your subjects.

6. Do you do custom sizes that aren't listed in your menu?

Absolutely.  Please contact me if you have something unique and special in mind.  I am always happy to discuss your requests.

7. What is the difference between watercolour and gouache?

Gouache is similar to watercolour in that it is comprised of water based pigments in a binder, however, gouache is very highly pigmented resulting in an opaque, velvet texture, similar to acrylic, but matte.  By contrast, watercolours are transparent and much more unpredictable.  Both should be framed under glass to preserve them.  

8. Will my artwork last a long time?

Definitely.  I take great care to use only professional grade paints, materials and papers of archival quality to ensure that your portrait can be passed down to your grandchildren if framed properly.  Your artwork should be framed using archival, acid free mounts and UV protectant glass.

9. Will you frame my portrait for me?

Frames are such a personal choice, dependant on style preference and the decor where it will be displayed, I prefer to focus solely on your artwork and leave the framing to the professionals. 

10. What payment methods do you offer?

The payment methods are listed at the bottom of my website as well as in the shopping cart.  When you select the medium you are interested in, there is a list of sizes in a menu which allows you to select and pay your 50% deposit from a selection of payment options.  I will then contact you with information on how to get started, submit photos to me as well as a start and completion dates.

11. Are Gift Certificates available?

Yes!  A custom portrait makes a great gift! Digital gift cards are available on my website in many denominations.  They can be used as payment for a custom project in part or in full.

12. Can you work from old photos?

Yes I can.  Ideally, I like to work from high resolution photos where I can clearly see details such as eyes and fur or feathers.  It is important that the colours in the photo are true to the subject if you are wanting a colour portrait. Charcoal portraits are much more forgiving.  In the case of a memorial portrait, this is not always possible and I will be happy to work with you to choose a medium and composition that will work best.  Please keep in mind that the quality of the photos will effect the end result.

Still have questions? Please contact me.