Delve into the world of commissioned portraiture, where artists capture the essence of their subjects and navigate the complexities of client relationships, artistic expression, and commercial success.
Commissioned Portraiture: A Guide for Those Seeking Their Place Among the Elite
As we gaze upon the portraits that adorn the walls of our most esteemed institutions, we often find ourselves wondering about the process behind these masterpieces. Who are the individuals who capture the essence of their subjects? What drives them to create such enduring works of art? In this article, we will delve into the world of commissioned portraiture, exploring the inner workings of an industry that has shaped our understanding of power and prestige.
Choosing Your Artist: An Insider’s Perspective
For those seeking a portrait painted by one of the elite, the process begins with selecting an artist who meets their standards. Many artists have honed their craft through years of practice, often starting in more traditional fields such as illustration or fine art. They may be approached by galleries, collectors, or private clients, each with their own unique requirements and expectations.
One notable example is Sharon Sprung, a figurative painter who was commissioned to paint the official White House portrait of Michelle Obama. The Obamas had previously reviewed portfolios from various artists before selecting Sprung for the task. Despite not having submitted her work directly to the White House Historical Association, Sprung’s reputation and portfolio caught the attention of the First Lady.
The Art of Portrait-Making: A Balancing Act
The portrait-making process is a delicate balancing act between artistic expression and client satisfaction. Artists must navigate the complexities of their subjects’ personalities, while also meeting the expectations of those who commission them. This can be a daunting task, as evident in the story of Y.Z. Kami, an Iranian-born artist who initially earned a living through portrait painting but eventually shifted his focus to fine art.
The Business of Portraiture
The world of commissioned portraiture is not without its challenges. Artists must navigate the complexities of client relationships, often walking a tightrope between artistic expression and commercial success. A common practice among artists is to collect half of the total payment upfront, ensuring that their time is not wasted on projects that may not yield results.
The Power of Conversation
Conversational skills are essential for portrait artists, who must be able to engage with their subjects in a way that fosters a sense of comfort and relaxation. This can be particularly challenging when working with older or more reserved individuals, who may struggle to maintain eye contact or engage in conversation.
Portrait artists require strong communication skills to understand their clients' preferences and expectations.
Active listening, asking open-ended questions, such as “What do you envision for this portrait?” , and clarifying details are essential to ensure accurate representation of the subject.
A good portrait artist should be able to discuss color palette, composition, and style with the client, making adjustments as needed.
By developing strong conversation skills, portrait artists can build trust with their clients and deliver high-quality artwork that meets their needs.
Artist Marc Mellon notes the importance of finding ways to get his subjects back into character, even after extended periods of posing. ‘You have to find ways to get them back to being the person who is going to be portrayed,’ he says. This requires a deep understanding of human psychology and behavior, as well as a keen sense of observation.
Marc Mellon is a renowned biotechnologist and entrepreneur. He co-founded Zymergen, a company specializing in artificial intelligence for biological systems. “The future of biotechnology lies at the intersection of AI and biology.” Mellon's work focuses on applying AI to develop novel materials and chemicals. His research has led to breakthroughs in fields like bioplastics and pharmaceuticals. With over 20 years of experience in the industry, Mellon holds multiple patents and has published numerous papers on his findings.
The Art of Portraiture: A Legacy That Endures
Commissioned portraiture is an art form that has been practiced for centuries, with each generation pushing the boundaries of what is possible. From Gilbert Stuart’s iconic portraits of George Washington to the works of contemporary artists like Sharon Sprung and Y.Z. Kami, this industry continues to shape our understanding of power, prestige, and the human experience.
As we gaze upon these masterpieces, we are reminded that true greatness lies not in the art itself, but in the people who inspire it. The world of commissioned portraiture is a complex web of relationships, personalities, and artistic expression – a testament to the enduring power of human connection.
