Commissions

If you would like to commission a portrait in oils I would love to hear from you. Portraits can vary in size and scope, from a simple head and shoulders portrait, to a complex composition with multiple sitters.

Below I have indicated two different sizes and their corresponding prices. These are approximate; the actual size and price will depend on your vision for the portrait, and the composition we choose.

SIZES & PRICES:

Head and shoulders, approx. 40 x 50cm: £2,000

Seated half-length, approx. 60 x 70cm: £3000

​

PROCESS:

I work in part from life and in part from photos. The more I can paint from life, the better, but I always take photographs to work from when that's not possible. The following steps will give you a good idea of the process. 
 

Step 1: Meeting or phone call. We will begin with a conversation to discuss your vision for the portrait and possible compositions. Once we have a clear plan I will send you a quote. I always take a 50% deposit upfront. This is not refundable once I have begun painting the portrait.

Step 2: Studio visit. I will invite you to my studio so I can take photos. This could also take place in your home, if preferable. We will dedicate a few hours to creating the composition; choosing the clothes you would like to wear, finding any items you would like in the portrait and getting the lighting right. Once we are happy with the composition I will take a selection of photos and execute a colour study.

​

Step 3: Painting. I will paint the portrait from start to finish, in part from life if you are available for subsequent sittings, or from the photos if you're not.

​

Step 4: Framing and presentation. Once the portrait is complete we will decide on a frame. The cost of the frame is not included in the price. I will varnish the painting using 'retouch' varnish. If you would like to take the painting away at this stage that's okay, but I will need to take it back six months later to give it a final coat of varnish. The second half of the payment is due at this stage.

Step 5: Finishing varnish. Six months after completion I will take the painting back to give it a final coat of damar varnish. Damar varnish is the highest quality varnish and has been used by painters for centuries. It seals the painting which prevents damage. However the painting needs a minimum of six months to fully dry and 'cure' before this final layer can be applied. 

​​

HOW TO ENQUIRE:

If you would like to commission a portrait or discuss possibilities simply send me a message on WhatsApp, email me, DM me on Instagram, or give me a call. 
Phone/WhatsApp: 07763161691
Email: crubinsteinkeightley@gmail.com
Instagram: @calypsorubinstein​​​

​

OTHER OPTIONS:

If you would like me to paint a portrait entirely from a photograph you already have, that is a possibility. However, it will need to be a very high quality photo for me to be able to work from it.

Photos taken outside are often the best, or those near a window. When you enquire, feel free to send me your photos so I can see if they are good enough to use.