A step-by-step guide to commissioning a
unqiue and bespoke oil portrait

An overview of how to commission an oil portrait

Oil portrait of Phoebe who is looking at the viewer and is wearing a matching green headscarf and long sleeved dress 
Phoebe, oil on linen, 35 x 25cm, 2023

Firstly, it’s a wonderful thing to commission a portrait. Your oil portrait will be a truly unique work of art, and always there to treasure. Whether you’re looking to celebrate a professional achievement, a loved one, or a personal, cherished moment; oil portraiture is a deeply beautiful choice.

When you get in touch with me, we will discuss any thoughts or images you already have, or alternatively I offer photo sessions to get a the best image for your portrait, also remote options are available on discussion.

Together, we will decide on the final composition of the portrait. I will then confirm the timeframe, and you can expect to hear from me as the work progresses. Once complete, your portrait will be yours to treasure forever.

To begin your journey, or if you have any questions, please get in touch using the form at the bottom of the page or the email button below. If you’d like an idea of a cost of a bespoke oil portrait(s), below are some price list guides:

Email me
Individual portrait price list
Double portrait price list
Group portrait price list

I’ve split the commission process details into three simple steps so that you, as the client, know just what to expect.

Step 1 - Enquiry

  • The first step is to get in touch with me, via email (genevievemurrayartist@gmail.com) or one of my contact forms on this page. I’d love to know roughly what size portrait you’re after, who it is of, and what type of portrait; a single portrait, couple, family-based or professional composition. The next step is to have a phone call or a face-to-face meeting, so that you can communicate your vision, and any requirements or thoughts you have about your future oil portrait(s).

  • I paint from photographs, and perhaps you already have a favourite photo that you’d like me to use as a reference. If not, we will arrange a photo session, after agreeing a location - often at the home or a favourite place. If you have already decided upon a treasured photo, please note that image resolution is very important. The final price will depend on the size of portrait, background requirements and number of subjects. Above are three different price lists for your interest for an idea of cost and scale.

Step 2 - Portrait proposal & painting

  • After our intial conversation and once we’ve chosen a reference photo for the oil portrait (a pre-existing photo or a chosen image taken during the photo session) we will together agree size options and then I will send you an invoice with details including size, expected timeline and price. Depending on what work I have on, my oil portraits take between 2 and 6 months to complete, though this will be discussed with you in advance. At the start of a portrait commission I require a 50% upfront deposit.

Step 3 - Completion

  • Once I’ve finished your oil portrait, it will need a few weeks to dry and I will let you know once its ready. Together we will arange a mutually convenient delivery day and I will show you the oil portrait in person, if possible, as I think you seeing the artwork in person is the best way to see it for the first time. After you have seen it and are happy with it, I will send you the final invoice.

  • You will then have an unqiue and specially made oil portrait to treasure for years to come!

Please note: shipping and framing costs are not included.

We really love the portrait which has settled onto its space here perfectly... I find my journey across the landing is much delayed as I step back to admire the portrait!

“

~ Anne and Susie
Oil portrait of Anne and Susie who are smiling and sitting in front of a wall with pink roses behind them

I am based primarily in Bristol and have a painting studio at The Island in the centre. I have travelled and would cover all over the south west of England to consult and deliver oil portraits to clients. This includes: Taunton, Bath, Gloustershire, Swindon, Frome, Cotswolds, Worcester, Herefordshire, Salisbury and Oxford. Of course, I have travelled further to meet with clients too.

Genevieve working on an oil portrait in her studio
Photo of Genevieve painting on an easel in her painting studio 
© Alice Poole

Let’s work together

Interested in what the next steps for your bespoke oil portrait are? Please get in touch below.