The procedure for obtaining an oil portrait by Richard
Balash is initiated by a consultation with the artist or his representative.
During this session, the needs of the patron and the artist's methods
and techniques are discussed.
Most people about to sit for a portrait by Richard Balash are pleased
to learn that it will not involve a great amount of their time. Usually,
a posing session of 1 to 2 hours is used to create an individual study
from life. (for preteen children, the life study is limited to color notes
and measurements). This is followed by a relatively short photography
session. He uses the photographs and the study as a guide to create the
portrait in his studio.
Photos of the oil portrait in progress are sent to the client for approval
as the painting progresses, and to discuss any possible changes before
Richard schedules his return trip. The painting is then brought to a stage
of near-completion.
When Richard returns to the client's city, a final sitting is arranged,
with the subject at hand, so that the painting can be completed to the client's
satisfaction.
Fee Schedule for Oil Portraits
Head and shoulders . $4,500.00
Three-quarter length .. .. $8,250.00
Full-length .. $10,000.00
without Background
Head and shoulders .. ..$2,000.00
Three-quarter length . . ..$4,000.00
Full-length .. $6,000.00
painted in Pastels
Head and Shoulders………...…….……..$3000.00
Three Quarter Length…………….……..$6000.00
Full Length……..……………….………. $8000.00
The fees listed are for a single-figure painting. Additional figures increase the fee by 80% for each figure, e.g., two full length figures would be $14,400.00: $8000.00 for the first figure and $4800.00 for the second. Elaborate detailing in clothing will increase the fee.
Framing, travel expenses and crating/shipping costs are additional.
Fifty percent of the portrait fee is due when the photographs are taken,
with the balance due upon satisfactory delivery of the portrait(s).
