The first meeting takes place between client and artist at either subject's home or artist's studio to determine basic portrait design, canvas size, pose, type of clothing, setting and lighting. THE CLIENT'S INPUT IS VERY IMPORTANT TO THIS PROCESS. Johanna strives for really good communication between both parties, especially important at this point.

At the next meeting a photo session takes place by the artist of up to 150 pictures for one sitter along with any preliminary sketches and skin tone matches felt necessary, this process lasting about two hours.

About three portrait options will then be presented to the client from the photo reference along with a life-size rough compositional charcoal sketch. A final composition is agreed upon. .For out of state clients, this process can easily be condensed into one day. The artist uses the photos as reference material only working from MANY different images to produce the final painting. She strives for a painterly likeness as opposed to a slavish photographic reproduction. In the case of posthumous portraits, Johanna will work with the client with whatever photo references are available to produce the same painterly quality.

Whenever possible the artist desires to do a final sitting from life except for young children.

The exciting painting process building layer upon layer of rich glazes to achieve that old master style takes about six week for one sitter. The client is invited to view the painting towards the end and minor changes will happily be made. Photo images can be sent to out of state clients before final delivery. The artist's sole goal is for you to absolutely adore the painting on your wall. A non-refundable 40 per cent deposit is requested at the time of initial photo shoot along with a signed contract in the interest of both parties.

The final payment is due upon portrait delivery. An extra varnishing takes place a year later wherever possible at no extra cost except for travel expenses - it takes that long for the deepest oil layers to dry!

Artist will be happy to advise on framing.

Artist fee does not include tax, framing shipping, insurance or travel costs.