Commissioning Mai to paint a picture for you is very easy, the process can even be started by email. The following FAQ guide is offered to simplify the process even further…
Picking a Subject, what are the options?
How big a picture should I ask for?
How big a deposit do I need to make?
How can I discuss my requirements?
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Picking a Subject, what are the options?
Although subjects can be painted from life (a portrait, from sittings in the studio – a landscape, by setting up an easel at the scene) life paintings tend to be a more expensive option than the suggestion that follows, particularly as Mai’s studio is based in Spain – it is also difficult to give a ‘life’ portrait as a surprise gift to a friend, colleague or loved one if they are the subject!
An acceptable and less expensive alternative is to base a painting on photographs – this is can also be done as a surprise for the “sitter” and is generally quicker and more convenient and allows the artist to paint subjects “long distance”. The finished artwork can also be approved from photos and then shipped to most destinations across the world (a two week grace period after delivery is included to ensure satisfaction).
Choosing to commission a painting from a photograph allows more sentimental subjects to be considered – for example – portraits can be painted from old black and white or faded colour photos, provided that some detail is still discernable.
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Mai’s Portraits are normally painted in Oils on Canvas, as are most of her landscapes and still life – other options are available and a selection of works in alternative media can be seen in the Watercolour Gallery.
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How big a picture should I ask for?
Based on existing photographs or your own ideas, when you have chosen a subject, choose an approximate canvas size. As a rough guideline – a very small detailed painting can be almost as expensive as a large canvas which has less detail in it. Several portraits on one large canvas, although easier to display, may work out only fractionally cheaper than several medium size individual portraits.
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Most paintings take 6 to 12 weeks to complete, depending on the artist’s other commitments. Whilst there is always some room for negotiation for more urgent requirements, a realistic estimate of timescale will be offered with the individual quotation. For large and detailed paintings, especially those requiring additional research, up to six months might be required, but this will be clearly stated when the quote is made.
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How big a deposit do I need to make?
A 30% deposit is required before work can be commenced.
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Payment can be made either through Paypal or by Cheque. Other methods may be available subject to discussion with the agent
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How can I discuss my requirements?
Email manager@mabc.biz with your requirements … and you will receive a no obligation quotation with an estimated completion date (from one to six months) according to the complexity of the picture you have requested.
As painting doesn’t start until a 30% deposit is made, you have no commitment to proceed, even though photos may have been sent to the artist or agent.
Before the remaining 70% needs to be paid, a photograph of the finished piece will have been supplied and, even at this stage, there is an opportunity to have minor alterations made. Only when the artist is satisfied that you are happy with the finished work will it be shipped. At this stage, the remainder of the fee is payable.
A two week no obligation grace period is normally applied after delivery – if dissatisfied, within that time, and the artwork is returned in the same condition it was sent, an 85% refund can be requested, 15% is retained to cover administrative costs
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