Commission a portrait
Commissioning a portrait is a very personal experience and one which Peter also makes interesting and enjoyable. Outlined below is the whole commission process from start to finish. As a guide, a single head-and-shoulders portrait in oils on canvas start from £800. If you would like some further details or prices about a commission, please fill out the form at the bottom of this page.
Stage 1
After making contact, Peter will arrange a suitable time to discuss the full painting process with you. This will include the type and size of painting you would like to commission, the sitting, timings, delivery of the finished painting and framing. At this stage, Peter will be able to inform you of the tailored price which will be dependent upon size, the number of sitters and content.
This first stage can be done via email, over the phone or in person either at Peter’s studio in North Buckinghamshire or at the sitters/commissioners home or place of work.
Stage 2
Sitting/s are arranged at a convenient time and place for both parties and usually last for about 2 hours at the sitter’s home, place of work or Peter's studio. During the sitting Peter will get to know the sitter whilst making numerous sketches (either drawing or in paint) as well as taking photographs. He will then take these references back to his studio where he will continue work on the portrait.
In most cases this will be the only sitting required although a short second sitting may need to be arranged.
Stage 3
Keeping everyone up to date on the progression of the painting is a very important part of the process and one Peter can do in a number of ways.
Both the sitter and commissioner are, at any point, welcome to arrange a time to come and see the portrait in progress. Alternatively, Peter will send you photos of the stages via email to keep you well informed on the painting process. When the portrait is at the half-way stage you will be invited to Peter's studio to provide any feedback and to see the painting's progress - again this can be done via email if you are unable to visit the studio in person.
Your feedback is an important part of the painting process and where possible Peter will work with your feedback to make the portrait as perfect for the commissioner as possible. It is a this point the discussion of framing can take place alongside Peter’s framer Stephen Harris.
Stage 4
The painting will take approximately three to four months to be completed which includes drying time, framing and delivery. If required, portraits can sometimes be delivered to a shorter deadline by prior arrangement.
Although a framing service can be provided it is not essential.
Delivery or collection of the painting can be arranged by prior notice. Courier services are also available for paintings needing to be shipped abroad.
If you would like to enquire about commissioning a portrait by Peter or have any other questions about the commissioning process, please use the form below.