Historically, portrait painting was taught in the academies of art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, as the highest form of classical artistry. Portrait paintings dominated the French art salons that impassioned the culture of the late 19th century. This enthusiasm for the portraiture testifies to the sustained interest of even the most rudimentary of art collectors and enthusiasts.
The principal portrait medium is oil. Because of its ability to refract and kindle light, oil has long held the noblest of portrait mediums. Portraits in oil capture the essence of a pictorial quality previously reserved for those of elite social standing such as architects, men of letters, musicians, actors, painters or sculptors, prelates, politicians, royalty and scholars. As with most of yesteryear indulgences, these artistic portrayals have become more obtainable and common place among the working class and blue-collar aristocrats.
Portrait art has taken many forms and variation in styles for artistic expression. The selection of a portrait artist should consider the caliber of the artist, the style of artistry, and affordability. Getting a portrait painting is a special event. It is Josephs goal to create the most beautiful oil portrait paintings of heirloom quality while allowing you to enjoy the entire process. Joseph follows a set procedure to best ensure that each of his oil portrait paintings lives up to the highest standards.
Formal Portrait Process
Once the decision has been made to have an oil portrait painted, you will need to make an appointment to clarify the terms and specifications of the commission. The procedure for obtaining a portrait by Joseph begins with a consultation with the artist. During this session, the needs of the patron and the artists methods and techniques are discussed. Important details such as the size of the portrait, the degree of formality, the background, the pose and clothing are determined. Joseph takes this opportunity to get to know the client, their expectations and personality traits that can be embodied into the portrait rendering. A price is determined and the commission agreement is finalized.
24"x30" Commissioned portrait of Conductor Don Jenkins, by the Colorado Springs Chorale.
Joseph primarily works from reference photos he takes during the first sitting. Most people about to sit for a portrait by Joseph Bonomo are pleased to learn that it will not involve a great amount of their time. Usually, the first sitting can last for 1 to 2 hours and is used to create an individual study and take photos. At the second sitting a pose is selected and a short color study may be needed. Periodic viewing by the client of the oil portrait in progress is recommended. This allows the client to discuss possible enhancements prior to entering into the final stage of painting and ensures that the client is satisfied with the final product. Also, should a frame be desired, it is always better to choose the frame prior to the completion of the portrait.
There are times when portraits can be done posthumously. Portraits can be rendered from photograph of higher quality that utilize studio grade lighting. Photos can be evaluated to determine if they will work towards this process.
Pricing
Professional artists generally price their art by the square inch. A portrait artist prices their work by the size of the finished canvas and the detail of the work. A portrait of the head and shoulder on a 20 x 24 canvas by a non-published regional artist can cost upwards to five or seven dollars a square inch. You are encouraged to visit with other artists and compare style and pricing. It is always a good idea to first find an artist that you have seen their work and enjoyed their style. Then negotiate a price.
Josephs general fee schedule for oil portraits
Head and shoulders
. $850.00
Three-quarter length
..
.. $1,300.00
Full-length
..
$1,800.00
The fees listed are for a single-figure with an appropriate tonal background on an 18x 24 canvas support. Additional figures increase the fee, e.g., two full-length figures would be $1,800.00 for the first figure and $1,000.00 for the second. A common mistake by the novice client is to force too much into a too small space. Rarely would portraits venture below the 14 x 18 mark.
Other Fees
I highly recommend that you visit othe portrait artist sites and educate yourself as to the style and pricing of portraits.
Please take the time to visit these sites Portrait Society of America
American Society of Portrait Artists
There will be additional charges for specifically requested detailed background settings and complex clothing. Elaborate detailing in clothing and/or background will increase the fee. Prices do not include framing. See our framing catalog for examples of pricing on fine gallery frames we supply. Shipping fees and any state or city sales tax are the responsibility of the client.
One third of the portrait fee is due at the first sitting
with the balance due upon satisfactory delivery of the portrait(s).
"Ellie and Sammy"
