Request to have your portrait done!
If you'd like to have a portrait made of you, a friend, a family pet, etcetera, there are a number of options that would be available to you.
Quick Sketch: $10 - $30
This is a 10- 30 minute sketch of your particular subject (usually it's yourself) done in either graphite or charcoal. The resulting image will have the same style as the images to the left. Though not photo-esc, quick sketches take on a genre of their own and, often times, I'd rather view an artist's sketch rather than their finished work; this is due to the fact that a trained artist can see, not only clear evidence of the artist's hand movements and approach, but also the artist's mood, personality, and how well the artist knows the subject. Due to the time constraint involved and inherent difficulty thereof, results will vary. Sketches are done either in person or through a photograph.
Finished, personalized portrait: $75 per week (includes 1 study and 1 finished piece)
This is your typical idea of a portrait done in either: graphite, charcoal, colored pencil, watercolor, or acrylic. Supports (what the portrait will be done on) available are: archival-quality drawing papers, watercolor papers (usually 140 lbs/300 gsm^2), Canson charcoal papers, and various canvas supports. All details will be worked out through a face-to-face meeting and price will be worked out based on a variety of variables but my general working price is listed above. Results will be similar to the samples shown on this website. Depending on the chosen support, finished artwork can be mounted and matted for free.
Cartoon: $20
These seem to be the popular choice for people I know and make great instant messenger icons and social networking pics! Each picture will be 200x200 pixels, 72 dpi, full color, and in my own cartoony style (shown to the left). Details of the portrait can be worked out when we meet to discuss the commission. Animated images are also an option, depending on complexity.
Portraits with multiple subjects
There is no extra charge for multiple subjects; however, more people in the picture means more hours that need to be spent on the artwork. It takes awhile to understand someone's face. Adding another person to the equation just takes more time, and a slight shift in my perspective.
Copyright notice
All digital images of all artwork produced are the property of Michael V Balbin. Therefore any image of my produced artwork are subject to display either on this website or in my professional portfolio (hardcopy and digital CD). My portfolio is only shown to professional entities, like employers or schools. A special request must be made if you don't want images of your commissioned work used on my website or portfolio.
Custom framing
Not available. Though I can give recommendations as to who to go to, what to look for, and expected price range.
