Explore Beka Smith’s Portrait Commission Expertise
A commissioned portrait is a completely unique piece of artwork created using a shared vision that develops between sitter and artist. I like to work closely with my client so that they feel fully involved and integral to this very special experience.
Although my aim is to make a truthful rendition of the sitter looking their best my approach and integrity ensure that the sitter is shown in their best light without the need for flattery.
Commission Process
If you are considering commissioning me to paint a portrait for you or of you then this is a guide as to how this process will develop through some key steps. Communication and clarity is always the best foundation for a portrait so it’s best to take the time at the start to make sure that these elements are all put into place.
All it takes to start the portrait process is for you to contact me with a few basic details about what it is you would like. I felt it may help to give some ideas here of what to include in your initial enquiry.
Step One: Idea
Firstly, it may seem obvious but it’s good to have an initial idea of what you would like the portrait to be of! For example if you’re considering a portrait of a person or family member then it helps to be able to tell me if you would like say, a full body portrait or upper torso, do you want to include their hands or maybe even just have their head! You may already have a photograph that either has the sort of pose or stance that you like or even still may actually work as a source image to have a portrait painted from.
Step Two: Size
Secondly approximately how big will the portrait be? I have painted works varying from 10 or 15 cm across to up to 150cm across! So some consideration has to be taken into where the portrait will eventually hang. Obviously a bigger portrait will take longer and demand a higher price so some clarity here will allow me to give you a better idea of price.
Step Three: Clothing
The final thing that would need to be clarified would be some idea of what the sitter will be wearing for the portrait – some very detailed fabrics and patterns will take longer to do so your expected level of detail in the portrait will need to be discussed.
So if you can include any or as much detail from the guide above it will allow me to give you a much more accurate idea of my availability and pricing for your portrait commission. Obviously this process is a little simpler if you would just like pet portrait. Either way I look forward to hearing from you soon and working with you to create a treasured artwork.
Discover Beka Smith’s Portrait Gallery
Browse a selection of portraits capturing the unique character and detail of each subject.
Portrait Commissions Reviews
Discover heartfelt testimonials from clients who cherish their custom portraits and the artistry behind each creation.
“Beka is clearly an artist of outstanding ability. The finished portrait is simply stunning, and both I and Dame Ann are delighted with the result. Beka’s attention to detail is extraordinary”
David Cardwell
Head of Department of Engineering
“Working with Beka Smith was a real joy. She is a brilliant artist, and she made the process of creating a portrait – about which I had been trepidatious – as easy and enjoyable as possible for me as the subject.”
Roger Mosey
Selwyn College Cambridge
“So many people have said you have caught the ‘real me’, and the portrait is just as I would like to be remembered. You made the whole experience great fun, and I am delighted with the final product.”
Mora Wallace
Provost of Oriel College Cambridge
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