Thimgan Hayden
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Commissioning a Portrait 

 Classically-trained in Florence, Italy, Thimgan (pronounced tim'-ee-in) Hayden seeks out the highest quality artists' materials and uses traditional methods to create meaningful portraits of lasting quality and beauty. Her greatest influences include the works of Caravaggio, Velazquez, and Van Dyck. 

 The first step in commissioning a portrait is to contact the artist or representative and arrange for an initial talk or visit. The artist and client will discuss plans for the piece. Where will the painting hang? How large will it be? How formal? What special objects or clothing may be used? Where will the sittings take place? The decision to be painted and by whom is an important one and a rapport between the artist and sitter is essential. The experience should be comfortable as well as memorable. 

 

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La Donna Incinta Oil on linen, 31 x 47 in. 2005



A portrait from life usually requires a minimum of 3 sittings of 3 hours each. A large, complex painting painted strictly from life may take 14 or more sittings. For optimal working conditions, Hayden paints from life in her studio. When painting children or an adult that is unable to travel to the studio location, the artist will consider working from studies and preparatory photographs--and fewer sittings. This is decided on a case-by-case basis.

Once all of the initial details have been worked out and a written agreement signed, the artist will begin developing ideas for the piece. The artist asks for a 30-40% deposit at this time. The client will see studies and/or the lay-in of the painting by which to judge the mood and composition. If the client approves, work will continue. It's best to allow 3 to 6 months from the start to the the completion of a portrait when possible.  Prices for oil portraits range from $3,000 to $18,000 or more depending on the complexity.  Drawings and portrait sketches are also available for under $1000.

Having one's portrait painted is a momentous event. The goal of the artist is to create a beautiful and deeply personal work of art that will bring pleasure to many generations.

 

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Bishop Babcock Oil on linen, 35 x 28 in. 2008 Collection of Grand Rapids Catholic Diocese

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Portrait of Lacey Oil on linen, 50 x 35 in. Private Collection

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Portrait of Susan Oil on linen, 50 x 40 in. Private Collection

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Portrait of Author Lawrence Dorr- Graphite on paper, 20 x 16 in. 2008 Private Collection

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Elijah, Belle, and Noah Oil on linen, 24 x 30 in. 2007 Private Collection

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Woman With A Red Shawl, 47x35 in. oil on linen

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Portrait of Ceddie Oil on linen, 16 x 12 in. 2007

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A portrait in progress painted sight-size

 

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Life drawing in sanguine of Rachel-Private Collection

Thimgan Hayden Studio Blog