Commission a portrait

Will it be ready for Christmas?

I cannot promise that now, because each portrait takes six to eight weeks to draw properly. A gift voucher is the answer: it is emailed the same day, right up to Christmas Eve, ready to print and put in a card, and the portrait is drawn in the new year.

Can I give it as a gift?

Yes. A portrait gift voucher is the easiest way when it is a surprise, or when the photograph is not chosen yet. Choose the size: A5 (EUR 195), A4 (EUR 295) or A3 (EUR 425). Pay by Revolut or bank transfer, and I will email you the voucher, usually the same day, signed, ready to print or to post. The price is locked: if my prices go up, the voucher still covers the portrait.

The small print on vouchers

• Each voucher covers one portrait of one person, at the size on the voucher, in the signature style or fully rendered.
• Valid for five years: the issue and expiry dates are printed on it. It covers the size at the price paid, even if my prices go up. Just book and agree the photograph before it expires.
• Want a bigger size? Pay the difference between the two sizes at the prices of the day.
• Posting within Ireland is included. Anywhere else, we agree the postage before you book.
• Once the photograph is agreed, the portrait is booked in like any commission: six to eight weeks.
• Choosing a smaller size? I refund the difference.
• A voucher can be given to someone else, but cannot be exchanged for cash. Changed your mind? If it is unused, I refund it within 14 days of buying. If I ever cannot draw it, I refund it in full.
• Full voucher terms are in my terms.

Which photo works best?

Good light on the face, taken reasonably close, with the eyes sharp. Send me a few and I will tell you honestly which will make the better portrait, and why. That conversation is free and there is no obligation.

Can you draw two people?

One person per portrait for now. If you have a photograph of two people in mind, email me and we will talk about it.

Can you work from an old photograph?

Often, yes. Old and damaged photographs are some of the most meaningful pieces I draw. Send it and I will tell you what is possible.

Can I order prints of it?

Yes. Once your portrait is finished you can order fine art copies of it, which is what most families do when several of them want one. Prices are above.

How long does it take?

Six to eight weeks from the day we agree the photograph. The drawing takes as long as it takes to be right.

How do I pay?

Half to book your slot, by Revolut or bank transfer. If you cancel before I start drawing, I refund it in full. Once I have started, the deposit covers the work done. The balance is due once you have seen a photo of the finished drawing, before it is posted. I send you the payment details by email.

How does it arrive?

Flat, protected, signed and tracked, and it is my responsibility until it reaches you. Posting within Ireland is free. For anywhere else, we agree the postage before you pay the deposit. Outside the EU, your country may charge import duty or tax on arrival, which you pay.