Custom 18x24 Oil Family Portrait & Great Dane Commission Process | Portraits & Miniatures by NC
I have been working on an 18x24-inch oil family portrait for a while now and am thrilled to finally share one of the finished figures—starting with the majestic Great Dane.
Before I share more about this particular work, I will share the progression photo of this commission.
After the reference photo is approved by the client, the process begins by blocking in the figures. As an artist, I have to consciously train my mind to switch gears from intricate miniatures to portraiture, complete with an entirely new color palette.
As more color is layered and the figures begin to emerge, my focus shifts toward capturing every tiny detail to transform a flat, two-dimensional shape into one that practically pops off the canvas. The juxtaposition between light and dark, smooth canvas areas, and thick impasto paint application allows the work to take on a life of its own.
Today I received another portrait commission, so I will be working right through the weekend to bring this piece across the finish line. Be sure to sign up for the newsletter below to see who comes next on the canvas!
