Details of Commissioning A Painting

For a concise explanation, click here

Pet portraits are painted from photographs - normally those sent by clients. One clear photograph is sufficient but It is always helpful to have several photographs as reference and if you have a favourite photo/pose just let me know. Also please look at your photographs carefully and make a note of which have the most accurate eye colour and coat colour - not always the same photographs by any means. If the photo of the desired pose is a bad colour - or even black and white - be sure to send one or a few which show the true colour. Do feel free to get in touch to discuss your painting. This is without any obligation so don't be afraid to ask any questions you may have.

Choose which photograph/s you would like the painting based on and decide which medium you would like the portrait painted in - either watercolour or oils. If oils, you will also need to decide which support you would prefer - hardboard/masonite or stretched canvas.

You will then need to consider if you are happy with the standard sizes shown below. Paintings are normally offered unframed, with the watercolours being matted in acid free mounts. If you would like your painting framed I will be pleased to arrange this for you (please email for a quote) and of course postage will also cost more. If you want a different size of painting, or to discuss frames or any other asepct of the painting please email or telephone me to discuss what you would like.

Finally, collect your photographs together and either email or post it/them to me - the address details are on the contact page. You do not have to pay in full when you place your order as only a 25% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your place in the waiting list and allow me to spend time on the preparation of your painting. Be sure to include any details you think relevant i.e. any name you might want included on the painting. Also be sure to let me know if the painting is required by a specific date. Please bear in mind that unless a specific date is mentioned, there is often a wait of several months.

When the painting is finished, I will send you a scan for your approval. If all is well, you will then send the balance of the payment and your painting will be despatched to you. Within the UK paintings are sent by Royal Mail Special Delivery and overseas by Royal Mail Airmail or a small selection of trusted couriers. These services have been used for very many years and they have proved to be a most reliable and safe way to send paintings.

Prices

Watercolours are painted on museum quality papers and are mounted in acid free mounts; with the actual part of the painting which is visible measuring approximately 10" by 14", while the external measurements of the mount are 16"x 20". It is absolutely vital that watercolours are mounted/matted before framing as the painting must be kept off the surface of the glass in order to prevent damage to it. Watercolour paintings should never be stuck to any surface other than with a strip of Archival tape so when you take your painting to be framed if you have a different mount fitted, ensure that your painting is treated correctly.

Oils are unmounted and sizes are given above. They do not need to be covered with glass to protect them and so, because they are unmounted, almost all of the surface of the painting is visible. Sizes below 16" x 20" are generally painted on hardboard/masonite unless you would prefer canvas. Paintings 16" x 20" are painted on canvas. A box canvas - a canvas with thicker sides which are painted on - and which can be hung directly on the wall, costs an additional £10 plus, according to the size of the canvas.

Larger sizes of paintings are available by special arrangement

Please note that I retain full copyright and reproduction rights on all paintings, including commissioned work. However out of courtesy, no prints or any sort of reproduction of commissioned work is made unless requested by the owner, so you can be sure that your painting will always be your own original.

A print service is offered to owners who either wish to have a print or prints made of their pets' portrait to give to friends. These are produced by a Fine Art Printing company. Please ask for details when ordering your painting.

Payment - a 25% non-refundable deposit is required when you place your order with the balance being due on completion. Payment within the UK is preferred by bank transfer - details will be given when you commission your painting. Payment by cheque is also accepted. For overseas clients and those who prefer it, secure on-line payment through Paypal is also available.

A postage and packing charge also applies:

£8 within the UK (unframed paintings)

Paintings are shipped worldwide - please email for individual country rates (these will vary according to size).

If you have any questions, please email info@azpaintings.com and I will be happy to help.