Traditional Art

Size

Size has an impact on detail and style, at least in my eyes. The smaller I draw, the more detail I tend to utilize in order to compensate. Conversely, the larger I draw, the more the shapes tend to speak for themselves and thus require less acute detail. However, larger pieces still typically take more time to complete. Essentially, the suggestion of fur in certain areas of a dog that’s painted on a huge canvas allows for the human eye to fill in the gaps from a comfortable viewing distance. However, a smaller portrait of the same dog will undergo closer scrutiny, and thus requires almost each individual hair to stand out.

Regardless of the size, though, the end price of a completed artwork is also dependent upon the price and amount of materials used on that individual piece.

• Small - 5 x 7 in, 6 x 6 in, 6 x 8 in, and others in that range.

Typically $ 75 - 150

• Medium - 8 x 8 in, 9 x 9 in, and others in that range.

Typically $ 150 - 200

• Large - 8.5 x 11 in, 9 x 12 in, 11 x 14 in and others in that range.

Typically $ 200 - 250

• Extra Large - 18 x 24 in and anything larger.

Typically $ 250 and above

Materials

Materials are simply a means of communication for artists to utilize in order to translate their creativity into something tangible. Thus, a true artist, in my opinion, can make art with anything they choose to express themselves through. Whether it is top of the line or found on the hallway floor (like my favorite pencil), any medium is capable of greatness if put in the right hands! But of course, prices exist, so different tools that each yield different results must cost different amounts.

These are listed in order of additional cost, and each additional cost depends on what is necessary for each individual piece.

• Charcoal, Graphite, and/or Ink on Paper- These materials are typically and relatively less expensive than other forms of media, thus making artwork I make in them less expensive. However, it has taken me years to become proficient in these materials, so my experience typically allows for higher quality work a bit faster.

• Alcoholic Markers, Watercolor Paints, and/or Colored Pencils on Paper - Because these materials are more expensive to purchase and to upkeep, it costs a bit more to use these. However, because they are great for animated-style artworks, which can be less complex and, because I have been working in these media for a long time, can take less time, utilizing these materials is less taxing.

• Acrylic Paints on Canvas or Wood- Though the paint may be the same, the surface of which the strokes are applied can drastically change the image. Canvas is the typical choice for paint, as it allows for versatility with layering and blending, creativity with impasto, and does well to stand the test of time. However, as wood panel has less surface texture than canvas and gives the paint a more natural tone, I believe the end result of similar paintings on wood better compliment the abilities of acrylic paint than canvas. Regardless, the choice honestly depends on what you want from the artwork, as size and weight of the piece, as well as absorbency and priming of the surface, all affect its ability to convey an image and last over time.

• Oil Paints on Canvas or wood- I have actually only used oil over the past few years, as I have always defaulted to the more inexpensive acrylic paint. I have been instructed to use it “properly,” fat-over-lean and all, but I am in love with this medium and will continue to experiment with it as the results are just too irresistibly beautiful to not try to accomplish for myself.

Time

As one would expect, time typically relates to both size and materials, and thus is dependent upon the piece I am asked to do. A small but highly detailed piece might end up taking as long as a large but more stylized piece. It just depends!

I use an “hourly rate” to give me an idea of how much I should charge for each piece. Since smaller works usually take less time and less materials, they tend to cost less.

However, Pricing will most likely need to be discussed on a case-by-case basis.

Photography

Because of my ongoing exploration of photography, I am not yet fully confident advertising, and thus properly monetizing my photography as a service. However, if you’re interested in my abilities and would like to have me take photos for you, don’t hesitate to reach out so we can discuss how I can help you!

• Digital photos - $35 each

  • (only for events, not artistic photography)

• Prints - Case by Case UFN