Commissions Procedure

All of Joanne’s artwork is drawn by hand using the finest quality art materials available. All materials used are professional grade, and works are mounted using conservation grade mount board and tape. By using the best available, you can be assured her work is of the highest quality and will not diminish over time.

In an ideal scenario Joanne likes to visit the subject she is to portray. Her visit will involve meeting both client and their animal, and undertaking a series of sketches and taking her own photographic reference material. It also enables her to get to know her subject a little better and learn about their character. Joanne will happily review the photographs with the client, so that they can select the one / ones they would like her to use for the portrait.

Joanne understands the ideal scenario described above isn’t always possible. If the portrait is intended for a surprise gift, there are geographical constraints, or if sadly the animal is no longer with you; she is happy to work from a selection of your own photographs. The more photographs that can be provided the better, and any video footage or background stories the client may have will all help her to ‘get to know’ your beloved animal and enable her to create an accurate portrait that will be treasured for years to come. For tips on taking good reference photos, click here or select in the menu above.

Joanne is happy to advise on the style / medium of the portrait if the client is unsure as to what will suit the subject. She can make alterations to how the animal appears on the photograph i.e. removing horse tack / collars, tidying manes, If a group portrait is required, it is not necessary for the animals to appear together perfectly on one photograph as Joanne can combine separate images into one.

Once the details of the portrait have been decided, Joanne asks for a 20% non-refundable deposit to secure the commission. The full balance is only required upon completion and once the client is 100% happy with the result.

Timescales for completion vary depending on Joanne’s workload and the time of year. Naturally the run up to Christmas is a busy time of year, so it is recommended that clients book no later than September if portraits are required as a Christmas gift. At other times of year the completion time is generally 2-8 weeks depending on the type of portrait required. If portraits are required for a tight deadline, Joanne is more than happy to try and meet this if she is able.

Unfortunately at this time, Joanne does not accept commissions for human portraits.