Since 2024 I've started offering oil paintings alongside my pastels. These are two different painting techniques, and I've included both options on the page so you can compare. The main difference is that pastels are a more delicate technique and require framing under glass for protection, while oil paintings are more durable and can be hung without glass or even without a frame at all. Many of my customers had been asking for that flexibility, which is why I started offering this option. The pricing does vary between the two, and you'll find everything laid out on the page.

Main Differences

Pastel Portraits

• Matte surface with no reflection, so the artwork can be viewed clearly from any angle. 
• The surface cannot be touched and must be framed behind museum glass.
• Museum glass offers exceptional clarity but comes at a higher cost than standard glass or a frame without glass.
• Completion time: approximately 2–3 months. (1 subject, more subjects will require more time)
• Can be shipped immediately after completion.

Oil Portraits (different price)

• Painted on Belgium linen.
• Colours appear deeper and more vibrant. Blacks and dark colours are especially vivid, and the glossy surface enhances contrast and vibrancy.
• The surface can be touched and the painting can be displayed framed or unframed.
• Glossy finish that creates natural reflections depending on the light and viewing angle.
• Completion time: approximately 4–6 months. (1 subject, more subjects will require more time)
• The portrait remains with me for an additional 4–6 months to allow for complete drying before varnishing and safe shipping.

EXAMPLES OIL PAINTING:

Example 1

Example 2 (portrait in progress)

Example 3

Example 4

For portraits featuring five subjects, an additional 20% will be added to the listed four-subject price. For six subjects, the additional charge will be 40%. If you would like to include more than six subjects, please contact me for a custom quote.

All portrait prices include a classic gradient background. More complex backgrounds featuring scenery, fields, flowers, skylines, detailed interiors or other elements are quoted separately. My usual rate for a fully detailed background is an additional 60% of the base portrait price.

Semi-complex backgrounds are generally charged at an additional 40% of the base portrait price. This might include, for example, a pet resting on a bed or sofa within a softly blurred interior, or a subject placed in a very simple field with minimal detail and blurred areas in the distance.

Please bear in mind that a complex background can require approximately ten times more work than a classic gradient background, which can usually be completed within a few hours. This is why gradient backgrounds are included in the portrait price, while backgrounds containing scenery or additional elements are quoted separately.