Commissions
Materials, style and size are all factors that influence the look of a finished piece. What works great for one reference might not work for another. If you book me for a commission I will of course be 100% guiding you through the process of finding the reference and style that suits your wishes best, but it is always good when the client has given it some thought beforehand. So here are a few things to consider.
Example of watercolour painting with lots of glazes, and details (bag and glasses) in gouache.
What is the best medium for your portrait?
Different mediums give very different looks, and make a big difference to the feel of a painting. I suggest you look through my portfolio, including the “studies” page, to get an impression of what you like. I have written underneath the pictures what the materials for each painting are. This painting was done on very thick, stiff paper (640 gsm cold pressed rather than a standard 300 gsm). I've included a video so you'll get a better idea of the look and layering.
Example of soft pastel and pastel pencil.
Picking the right reference photo:
Whether I'm doing a portrait of a person, a pet, finding the right reference photo is essential. I often find that the more non traditional references make for more interesting paintings, though sometimes a good old fashioned portrait can be nice as well. An inspirational reference is what makes a great painting, and in general the more fun I have, the better the portrait will be!
On a more practical level, the reference photo needs to be clear, and have decent shadows. I can do some digital editing and clear things up to a certain extent, but if the reference photo is flat it's very hard to get a good likeness. With any commission application it's preferred that you have around 3 photos ready that I can choose from.
Prices and shipping
Each portrait is handcrafted using archival grade materials, with upwards of 100 layers of watercolour glazes or detailed fine pastel, pastel pencil and coloured pencil techniques. I take on a limited amount of commissions throughout the year to ensure every painting gets the dedicated attention to detail that it deserves, and to keep a creative balance between commission work and my “regular” art practice.
Base pricing applies to standard single subject compositions in soft pastel, pastel pencil or classic watercolour. Final quotes depend on reference complexity, medium layering and additional subjects.
Process and medium costumisation:
Every commission begins with you sending me your preferred reference image(s), preferably 3, and of course I will try my best to find a way to use your favourite. When we agree on that, it is time to pick the size, paper and medium as well as the date of delivery. We can also look at the colour palette which can to some extent be customised and agreed upon before the work begins, if you want that. I will then create preliminary sketch of the composition and make sure it aligns with your vision before I begin the final artwork (confirming the framing, background and colour palette).
To hold your spot on my schedule and cover the archival materials for your piece, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required before I begin the final work. Once the final painting is complete, I will share a high-resolution photo of the finished portrait for your approval. The remaining 50% balance, plus shipping, is due prior to dispatch.
Example of watercolour on hot pressed paper with coloured pencil. This paper is smooth and does not have the traditional watercolour paper finish, but the smoothness allows for more details and layering of coloured pencil.
Size & starting prices:
Small: (20 × 25 cm or A4 or similar size) 3200 NOK (approx. €295)
Best for: single portrait (head/bust)
Medium (25 × 30 or similar) and. Medium Square (30 × 30 cm): 4000 NOK (approx. €370)
Best for: single portrait head/bust
Medium plus (30 × 40 cm or A3 or similar): 5000 NOK (approx. €460)
Best for: half body
Large (40 x50 cm or similar): 6500 NOK (approx. €600)
Best for: single or double portrait - (added person/pet + 1500 NOK/approx. €140)
Final price will be agreed upon and included in the contract before any work begins.
Prices are listed in NOK (Norwegian Kroner), as I'm based in Norway, but I ship worldwide! If you'd like a quick estimate in your currency before booking just send me a message and I'll be happy to send you one.
Example of watercolour with very high amount of glazes and gouache.
Shipping and delivery:
Domestic Shipping (Norway): Flat-rate insured tracking via Bring/Posten (typically 150–250 NOK). Local pickup in Oslo can also be arranged upon request.
Worldwide Shipping: Shipped via insured international courier (DHL Express or Posten International). Shipping rates typically range between €25–€50 / $30–$60 / £25–£45 depending on size and destination, calculated at final invoicing.
Packaging & Protection: All original artworks are flat-packed between reinforced, moisture-resistant protective boards to guarantee safe delivery without rolling or creasing delicate paper.
Customs & Import Duties: International orders are billed exclusive of local import taxes or customs duties, which are the responsibility of the recipient upon arrival.
Example of pure watercolour, high amount of layering