FAQS
Q. How much do your Portraits cost?
Please view the price of the portraits on my Prices page. Please note however that these prices are a general guide and prices may vary depending on the style of a piece eg if there is a complicated background or if it is a composite image (stitching individual images together to create a group composition). An accurate quotation will be given before a portrait is commissioned, just contact me
.
Q. What size portraits do you do?
Normally the sizes unmounted are
A4 (210 x 297 mm/8.3 x 11.7 inches) and
A3 (297 x 420 mm/11.7 x 16.5 inches
But I can do other sizes on request, just send me a mesage
Q. Can I have more than one animal or person in a drawing/painting?
This depends on the size of the artwork. In order to get the best image and detail into a portrait it is advisable to go with no more than one animal/person on the A4 size. The bigger sizes can have 2 or more depending on the composition etc.
Q. What sort of photo do you need to paint from?
Photos need to be good quality (high resolution) if possible– the better the photo, the better the painting. Advice on how to choose a good enough photo can be viewed here.
Q. Can you take the photograph?
Sometimes this can be arranged depending on your location.
Q. How long will it take to do a portrait?
This depends on the size, amount of detail in the subject and the number of animals/people in the picture. As an example a pretty straightforward A4 sized drawing will take approximately 1-2 weeks. It takes time to draw/paint a realistic style portrait but it is well worth the wait as you will be receiving a unique, skilfully made piece of art to last a lifetime and also one that you will be proud to hang on your wall or give as a gift.
Q. How far in advance should I book my portrait?
This varies a lot depending on my current work committments and time of year. It’s best to get in touch ASAP to give us time to discuss your commission and select the photograph I will use. Some portraits can take several weeks to complete and I can have several bookings in the queue, especially around Christmas time.
Q. Will the portrait be signed?
Every portrait is signed and marked with the year, unless instructed otherwise. Please say if you would also like a message written on the back. A signature is always added to confirm the artwork’s authenticity.
Q. Do you frame or mount the portrait?
I can mount the portrait and package in a cellophane re-sealable bag for an additional cost if requested. This does makes the portrait more presentable especially if it is for a gift, but I don’t frame portraits as this is a more personal choice.
Q. When do I pay, and what are the guarantees?
Pencil portraits: I don’t usually require any deposit for a pencil portrait, unless the order is very large. I will send you a scan of your portrait before taking any payment or sending it out. It hasn’t happened yet, but if you are not completely happy and I can’t fix the problem for you, you don’t have to buy it. Likewise if you receive your portrait and are not happy you can return it within 30 days for a full refund.
Watercolour portraits: Depending on the size of the painting, a deposit of 50% may be required, however if you really aren’t happy with your finished portrait and wish to return it within 30 days, then your deposit will be refunded in full
Q. What payment options do you offer?
You can pay by cash, bank transfer or Paypal.
Q. Do you offer refunds?
In order to be sure you are happy with the portrait I can show you its progress along the way if you’d like. I will send you a scan of the finished portrait prior to posting. It hasn’t happened yet, but if you are not completely happy and I can’t fix the problem for you, you don’t have to buy it. Likewise if you receive your portrait and are not happy you can return it within 30 days for a full refund.
Q. Can I purchase a portrait as a surprise gift?
Yes …many of the portraits I have done have been as surprise gifts. Just mention this in your enquiry.
Q. Do you post internationally and how will my piece be packed?
Yes, pieces are posted to any country in the world and a bespoke postage quote will be provided for this, based on destination. If you live locally in central Algarve, Portugal, the piece can be collected / delivered in person (and you get to meet the artist!). Once the artwork leaves for transit, I cannot be held responsible/liable for damages. Artworks can be insured to their cost value if requested and the cost added to the postage price.
Q. What about Copyright & Privacy?
Alison's Portraits, as the Seller retains copyright permissions on all work created. Unless otherwise specified by the Buyer or unless discussed between the Buyer and the Seller, the Seller reserves the right to post material relating to the artwork on any social media channel and the Seller’s website. No material will be posted online in advance of the artwork being completed or until the artwork has been delivered to its final recipient unless agreed upon by the Buyer. Buyer details will always be held in accordance with GDPR legislation and will not be passed onto any third party.
Q. Do you do gift vouchers?
This is something I am looking at providing soon, so just keep checking this website for details.
If you’re question isn’t answered above, please contact me
and you’ll receive a response within 24 hours.