Fine Art Commissions

How to commission a portrait

I take commissions for portraits in oil or pencil; I like to work as close to life size as possible, usually ranging from a head and shoulders to half length portraits using both formal and informal poses.

Oil paintings require a drying or curing period and can take months to complete so some planning ahead is useful; ideally six months advance booking is recommended. Pencil portraits can be completed within days or weeks subject to work schedules, planning is always recommended particularly when framing is required as drawing require mounts and glass.

My portrait process starts with an initial meeting to discuss your thoughts and ideas, gather reference material, sketches and confirm any specific requirements and preferences.

 

I prefer to gather my own photography which is taken specifically to inform my drawing or painting and is not intended as portrait photography as an art form. 

These initial meetings and reference gathering sessions may require 1-2 hours either in the studio or at you home. The main aim is to make the process enjoyable and interesting for both the customer and the sitter. If the subject is available to sit for some of the painting sessions then so much the better but this is not essential.

When the painting is completed it will require a few weeks to cure before a temporary varnish is applied. At this point framing can be discussed and ordered separately. When framing a pencil drawing a mount and glass will be required.

If you are thinking about commissioning an original artwork, please get in contact, it is always useful to have a conversation about your ideas.

 Prices

The following examples of pricing are outline estimates only and subject to complexity and location.

  • Pencil Portraits

    Head and Shoulders, life size (approx. 20 x 16”)

    • Monochrome (graphite/sepia) start from £600

    • Coloured Pencil/Pastel start from £900 unframed, example shown below.

  • Oil Portraits

    Head and Shoulders, life size (approx. 20 x 16”) start from £1,200.

    Head and Torso, life size (approx. 30 x 24”), as example shown below pricing between £2,000-£3,000.

    Oil portrait of rugby player by David Sandell

  • Animal Portraits

    Prices for animal portraits start from £300, subject to size, composition and medium.

    Please make contact for quotation and to discuss your specific requirements.

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Testimonials

  • "Standard Chartered Bank collect paintings of people from the many markets in which they operate, David was commissioned to paint two works for the collection which are fabulous and he was joy to work with, they are currently hanging in the Bank's office in Singapore."

    – Tom Tempest-Radford, art consultant to Standard Chartered Bank

  • "David’s extremely relaxed style and willingness for inclusivity added substantial individuality to my portrait and the result was simply stunning; having spent nigh on 20 years in the air the simple backdrop of sky, especially the inclusion of my 'office' the mighty Buccaneer, brings special poignancy to the overall effect for me - a truly treasured possession. A true craftsman, I cannot recommend Mr Sandell highly enough, thank you David!"

    – Group Captain Hyslop - Deputy Commandant RAF College Cranwell

  • "17 years as a professional sportsman has presented many opportunities that I would otherwise not have dreamed to have had the chance to experience. This work of art from David is one such opportunity. The skill and craftsmanship in the piece is truly breathtaking. A level of detail has been applied beyond my comprehension."

    – Christian Day, Saints rugby player

Things to consider before commissioning

You may have a specific thing in mind when considering a portrait or art commission. To make the process easier I would recommend considering the following when planning a portrait commission:

  • Think about where you intend to display the picture and therefore what size would be suitable, including the frame. Many homes may not have the wall space to accommodate a full length, life-size portrait.

  • Do you have a specific timescale? Oil paintings can take many weeks or months to complete and time must be allowed for drying and varnishing. 

  • Consider what background you would like, this may relate to where the picture will be displayed.

  • Consider whether you prefer a formal or casual portrait and therefore think about suitable clothing and props.

  • The addition of large props and animals may influence the size of the portrait. 

Terms & Fees

 A deposit of £25% is payable on commencement. Travel expenses would apply if more than 30 mins journey from my studio in Northamptonshire.

Prices are based on a supplying finished drawing or painting unframed. I am very happy to advise and assist with selection and supply of frames and mounts where required - please ask for details