Commissioning Your Portrait

Commissioning your own painting is easy, but you do need to plan ahead. There is always a backlog of commissions in process, and paintings are prioritized on order of deposit date, so please plan ahead to meet your schedule requirements. A deposit is required to secure a position on the schedule. The balance of payment is due on completion of the painting. Please call (650) 851-2510 to schedule.

The Reference Image

Jolyn’s portrait process always starts with a reference photo of the portrait subject(s). She prefers to capture the reference photos herself and her portrait packages include an on-site professional photo session for this purpose. It is sometimes possible to work from existing favorite photos that you have - please contact her to discuss. After receiving your deposit, Jolyn will contact you to arrange a photo session, or discuss how to submit your own existing reference photo.

Preparing the Portrait Artwork

Once the reference photo has been selected, Jolyn proceeds with the preparation of the portrait artwork. She carefully paints the final portrait. Examples of these can be seen in her sample gallery. She will work with you to select the particular style that is most suitable for your subject. It typically takes twelve weeks to complete the portrait, but she can also try to meet a timetable for a special event.

Final Portrait Painting

All paintings are a mixed media (acrylic/pigment) on canvas unless otherwise requested and are prepared on museum standard acid free materials. Jolyn offers a complimentary gallery frame as a standard on all fine art paintings delivered locally. Custom framing is available. Please ask Jolyn in advance of your project.

Portrait Package Pricing

The complete portrait packages include an on-site photo session (travel charges outside local area), painting of the portrait artwork, and the preparation of the final piece on acid free cotton canvas. The painting is then mounted and framed using archival materials. Price is based on the complexity of the subject matter and the desired final painting size. Prices typically range from $2,500 to $5,000 and will be quoted before booking. Please contact us for a quote. 8.25% California sales tax will be added to all deliveries within California. Shipping added at cost as required.

Gift Certificates - A Very Personal Gift!

The perfect gift for someone special - call Jolyn and ask about a pre-paid portrait package gift certificate. You can provide her with all of the information required by phone or email. She will provide you with an attractive certificate for you to deliver on that special occasion - or she can send the certificate directly by e-mail for same day delivery. A portrait is a once in a lifetime gift that will be treasured for years to come.

Satisfaction Guarantee

Commissioning a piece of art is a new experience for many people - it can be difficult to decide to purchase art that you have yet to see. While Jolyn does require a deposit to secure your commission, if for any reason you are not satisfied with your finished portrait, you may decline acceptance on delivery and receive a complete refund on your payment and deposit.

Shipping of Finished Artwork

Jolyn prefers to arrange for hand delivery of finished framed pieces wherever possible. If it is necessary to ship finished pieces, you will be charged the actual cost of packaging and shipping.