My charcoal and graphite commissions provide you with timeless memories.
I combine loose, expressive strokes with detailed realism to create portraits that feel alive.
Reference photo of Polly
The first step is to contact me and we can discuss what you’re looking for, including your preferred size and whether you’d like the portrait in charcoal (looser and ideal for larger works) or graphic pencil (better for fine detail and smaller pieces). I'd want to find out what was special about your pet and what you were wanting to capture in the portrait.
After our initial chat, you would send me:
A clear photo (or several). It’s best to choose a sharp image taken in natural lighting (not a flash) and at high resolution. Close-up shots with good detail in the eyes work best, as they help me capture expression and personality. It's great to get a few shots as it can give me an idea of your pet's personality.
Confirmation on the size and medium you want.
I would then provide a final price for the work and when you could expect it to be completed. If you want to go ahead I would invoice you for 30% of the cost in advance.
I will send you a photo of the finished work to check you are happy with it . You would pay the remainder of the cost and the artwork would be sent to you.
If the portrait has a number of elements in it, eg a composite of pets, or a background included, then I'll provide you with a mock up of the design to agree to before undertaking the drawing.
Pricing varies depending on the size and complexity of the image. I will provide you with a quote after we have discussed the commission and you have provided the photos. However the table below gives you indicative sizes and prices. Postage within NZ is included in the price. The portrait will be posted rolled in a cardboard cylinder.
Small ( best for single portraits esp head and shoulders and in graphite)
30cm x 21cm, 30cm x 30cm $480
Medium
40cm x 30cm, 40cm x 40cm $620
Large
50cm x 40cm ,50cm x 50cm $800
60cm x 50cm, 60cm x 60cm $900
Xlarge
70cm x 80cm, 80cm x 80cm $1,150
Framing
Charcoal and graphite portraits need to be framed under glass for protection. It is expensive to post framed works due to the glass so you will receive your portrait in a cardboard cylinder ready to take to a framer. I provide guidance on best options for framing. I can also provide a mat board and backing for your portrait for an additional cost.