Commissioning a portrait of yourself or a loved one is a unique and exciting experience. Not only will you commission a unique artwork but you will be directly involved in the making of it.
First step: Once you have considered the information below simply send Richard a commission enquiry to info@richardkitson.co.uk
Prices
The table shows a comprehensive price list for commissions in a range of popular sizes. Please enquire for the cost of larger sizes.
All prices are for the painting only (oil on linen canvas), framing can be arranged at an additional cost.
Pricing definitions
Single Portrait
A single portrait refers to any portrait of a single individual in a typical head and shoulders format with a plain background. Single portraits are very popular as they draw full focus to the individual being depicted.
Additional Details
For larger canvases there is the option to create something extra special. The descriptions below are a guide only, Richard will give specific advice upon your enquiry.
Detailed Background
A fuller background will open up new possibilities such as including the sitters chair, interior space and still life elements which in turn can expand the composition and narrative element of a portrait.
Including more Figure
Larger canvases give extra space to include more of the sitters figure. This can create an additional focus on the sitters clothing to further express their personality. Including more of the sitters figure also opens up possibilities for standing or reclining poses.
Double Portrait
Double portraits can express the relationship between two sitters whatever that relationship may be. Having two sitters creates an exciting dynamic and unique compositional possibilities.
(Only available for canvases sized 20x16 and above)
The process: Once you have decided to proceed with your commission, you or the sitter will be invited to visit Richard at his studio to sit for a sketch and to take reference images from which he will complete your portrait. This is a great way for Richard to get to know his sitter before starting a commission. Tea and biscuits are provided of course! Alternatively, sitters are welcome to sit for the whole painting process. Richard will arrange for you to visit his studio for two-hour sittings once or twice a week depending on your availability.
Location Sitting: Please enquire if you would like your painting to be set outside of Richard’s studio. In some cases it is preferable for the subject to be situated in a more personal environment i.e. at home, a workplace or a place of personal significance.
How long will it take? Typically, it will take two to three months to complete a single portrait. This can take longer if the portrait is completed in live sittings or larger scale (20x16 or above). Once the portrait is ready, Richard can either arrange delivery or you can collect it in person.
Do I need to pay a deposit? Yes, a non-refundable 30% deposit is required to secure your commission.
Testimonials
“I asked Richard to paint my father as a Christmas gift and was completely delighted with the result. It is a thing of joy to me to look at and incredibly true to life. The more you look the better it gets! My father loves it too and mentions it every time I call him. Thank you Richard.” Emma Culley
“As part of a programme funded by the South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) utilising monies dedicated to supporting the cultural and creative industries across the region, Barnsley Museums were delighted to be able to support artists across the region with a number of commissions following the Pandemic. We were thrilled to select Richard to undertake a portrait of the gallery Chairman, Paul Elmhirst, for the gallery collection. The final piece is stunning, and is now proudly on display in the permanent galleries. Richard was brilliant to work with, documenting the process along the way as part of the long-lasting legacy of this important commission.” Lynn Dunning, Head of Barnsley Museums
“Richard was commissioned to paint a portrait of my husband for his 60th birthday. The result is brilliant, really capturing a sense of Ian that goes well beyond the likeness. It's been much admired by friends and family alike, and Ian's favourite 'fish motif' shirt which was his choice for the sitting, has been created with such brilliance that its become quite a talking point! We are going back for more and have now commissioned Richard to paint my 97 year old father-in-law.” Amanda Carey-McDermott