Discover Beka Smith’s Portrait Paintings

Broadly speaking the clients for portrait commissions can be divided up into two categories – Professional or Personal and although those two categories can often merge they remain a good way of differentiating. The Professional category includes commissions from Corporations, Business and Academic Institutions- basically companies/clients who wish to mark achievements or memorialise people who have been in someway employed or involved with them.

Explore a carefully selected collection of portrait paintings that capture both likeness and character. Each painting focuses on expression, detail, and atmosphere, ensuring the finished work reflects the true spirit of the subject rather than a surface likeness alone.

Portrait Painting Commissions: Professional & Personal

When commissioning portrait paintings, clients generally fall into two broad categories: professional and personal. While these categories can overlap, they help shape the approach taken for each commission.

Professional portrait paintings are typically commissioned by corporations, businesses, and academic institutions. These works often mark achievements, honour leadership, or memorialise individuals who have played a significant role within an organisation or institution.

Personal portrait paintings, on the other hand, are commissioned by individuals. These may include portraits of family members, loved ones, children, or beloved pets. In many cases, these works hold deep emotional value and are created to preserve a meaningful moment or relationship.

Regardless of category, Beka approaches every portrait painting with the same care, attention, and respect for the subject.

Approaches to Creating Portrait Paintings

Depending on the subject and circumstances, Beka uses one of three established methods when creating portrait paintings.

Painting from Live Sittings

The most traditional approach involves working directly with the sitter through arranged painting sessions. This method allows Beka to observe movement, expression, and personality first-hand, resulting in a highly responsive and dynamic portrait.

Painting from Photographs Taken on Site

In today’s busy world, extended sittings are often impractical. For this reason, many professional and some personal portrait paintings are created using photographs taken by Beka during a site visit. This approach allows careful consideration of lighting, background, posture, and setting. Even small details—such as the choice of chair or surroundings—can significantly influence the final portrait, and this level of control helps bring out the best in each subject.

Painting from Client-Supplied Photographs

In certain situations, creating a portrait painting from photographs provided by the client offers the most suitable solution. This is especially common for personal commissions, where an existing image captures a meaningful moment in time. While Beka values the personal connection of working directly with clients, she carefully selects and interprets supplied photographs to ensure the finished painting remains expressive, balanced, and timeless.

A Thoughtful, Personal Commission Process

Throughout every stage of a portrait painting commission, Beka works closely with clients to ensure clarity, confidence, and satisfaction. From initial discussion to final delivery, the process remains collaborative and considered, allowing each portrait to develop naturally into a unique and enduring work of art.