How do I place an order?

There are two ways to place an order, by email or the online submission form.  

If you choose to use email:   Please provide us your name, address, phone number, email address and which type of artwork you are interested in:

1)  Charcoal Portrait     2)  Oil Portrait     3)  Original Artwork     4)  Giclee Limited Edition Print     5)  Matted Print     6)  Custom Artwork

If you choose to use the online submission:  Please fill in all of the boxes and check the type of artwork you are interested in.

In either the email or the description box (for online submissions) please include the following information.

For charcoal or oil portraits also include the size you wish to order, the number of people and any additional elements.  Studio 81 will contact you with the details for sending Kristina the photo(s) you wish to use.  

For original artwork, include the title(s) of the artwork you are interested in.

For Giclee limited edition prints and/or matted prints please provide the title(s) of the artwork you are interested in as well as the number of each print you would like.  For matted prints, also include the size.

For custom artwork, please be as specific as possible of the type of work you have in mind.  Kristina will contact you as soon as she receives your information.

What are the prices for Portraits, Original Artwork, Giclee Limited Edition Prints, Matted Prints and/or Custom Artwork?

Except for the orginal artwork and giclee limited edition prints, all of the pricing information is provided in the pricing guide.  To find the price for an original artwork, go the the gallery the piece is presented in and click on the thumbnail.  All of the information for the artwork will come up including the price.   Available giclee limited edition prints and prices are here.

How Do I Pay for My Order?

Once an order is placed, Studio 81 will contact you to verify all of the information and get any additional information that may be required.  For portrait orders, original artwork, giclee limited edition prints and custom artwork, a 50% non-refundable deposit is required.  The remaining balance will be due before shipment.  Note, previews of work can be sent electronically or mailed for final approval before payment is completed.  Matted prints will be billed with shipment.  Studio 81 accepts Paypal, Visa, Mastercard, Check or Money Order.

How long does a portrait take?

A charcoal portrait will take approximatly 4 weeks after I have recieved your photographs, not including shipping.  Oil portraits require eight weeks.  

Which photographs work best?

I can work from photographs at least 4" x 5", but 8" x 10" work best.  I do not recommend working from wallet size photos.  For the best portrait, I suggest a look that is relaxed, with a gentle smile - one without a lot of teeth showing.  There should be an even, all-over lighting without strong shadows.  Several photos can be combined into one piece.  I have created double and triple portraits from multiple photos.

Are they all originals?

Yes.   I take great pride in the fact that mine are 100% original.  I work only from observation, creating an acurate likeness but also a true original work of art that highlights features and diminishes unneccessary information.  There are several portrait artists out there employing many different reproducing processes.  Some project the photographs onto the drawing surface. Others transfer the image directly onto the canvas then create paint strokes over the image to give the illusion of an original work of art.  My advice to you is to ask about the process the artist uses and decide which style suits your needs best.

What do I look for in choosing a portrait artist?

I suggest taking the time to look at several web sites to find a style that you are attracted to.   Turn-around time should only be a factor after you find the style you like.  If this is a gift, keep in mind that a couple weeks is not important when creating the gift of a lifetime.  While you should keep a budget in mind, let cost be a factor after all of your other criteria has been met - can the artist work from photos, can the artist create an acurate likeness while also creating an interesting piece of art,  and do you like their style.

From Kristina...

I hope I have been able to answer some of your questions.  I look forward to working with you personally and I am available to answer any other questions you might have.