"Home Portrait" Painter

I received an inquiry today about a potential commission. I am always humbled when people ask me to paint a place very special to them, in this case "grandmother's cabin."

I happen to love architecture. In high school, I thought that I wanted to be an architect. I studied architecture for about a year and a half in college before realizing that I was much better suited to visual arts.

When I travel, I take many pictures of buildings. One of my early favorite paintings, currently hanging in my bedroom, is one that I did of Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco around 1990.

When painting "for myself," I obviously take liberties with color and form. These works routinely get into shows and some have won awards, but as of yet, they really haven't sold well.

Somewhere along the line, I began getting commissions of homes (and a barn). They have been a joy to paint! Clients seem to have been very pleased with all of them thus far. I'll assemble them for perusal!

Whether you want a painting of the home you grew up in or a special vacation photo, I'd be happy to work with you realize that desire.

Artists: Do you do your own framing?

I was back at the framer today to pick up the last two frames for Art:(un)Vale'd. Not counting the time it takes to go get the frames and glass, it takes me at least an hour to cut the mat and get it all put together properly and the dust cover and hanging hardware attached.

Doing it myself helps to keep the overall expense down, but I'm starting to wonder if I should just charge more for my paintings and let the framer do it all. I could have created two paintings in the last two weeks in the time I've spent framing. That seems like it would be a better use of my time.

I would love to hear from other artists who do works on paper. Do you do your own framing?