How to Commission a Portrait Artist in the UK (and Why It Won't Hurt a Bit)

How to Commission a Portrait Artist in the UK (and Why It Won't Hurt a Bit)

Published January 25, 2025 · 6 min read

Ever wondered what it would be like to sit still for hours while someone stares intently at your face? Well, don't worry – I promise it's much more fun than it sounds. I'm Marcus, and I've spent three decades turning blank canvases into windows to the soul, with only minimal coffee breaks.

Commission a portrait artist, original oil painting "Bruno" by Marcus Callum Artist

Beyond the Selfie: Why Commission a Portrait?

Let's face it – we live in a world where everyone's got a thousand selfies on their phone (including that accidental one where you were trying to unlock it). But a portrait? That's something else entirely. While your Instagram filters might make you look like a ethereal woodland creature, I'm here to capture the real you – though I promise to be kind about that one stubborn wrinkle you hate.

The Magic Behind the Canvas (Or: How I Turn Paint into People)

Here's a little secret about my process: each portrait is like a detective story, except instead of looking for clues, I'm hunting for the essence of you. It takes anywhere from a few weeks to six months, involving multiple layers of paint (sometimes 20 or more – yes, I might be slightly obsessive). Think of it as archaeology in reverse – instead of digging down, I'm building up, layer by layer, until your personality practically leaps off the canvas.

When I'm working, I'm not just painting what I see. I'm looking for those little things that make you, well, you. Maybe it's that mischievous glint in your eye when you're about to tell a joke, or how one eyebrow does that funny thing when you're skeptical. These aren't just details – they're the story of who you are.

Bespoke portrait commission by Marcus Callum, UK-based portrait artist. Oil painting capturing an elegant pose with rich textures.

What to Expect (No Torture Devices Involved)

Starting a portrait is like beginning a friendship, just with more paint involved. First, we'll meet and chat about what you're looking for. Don't worry if you can't tell your Rembrandts from your Rothko's – that's what I'm here for.

I'm flexible with how we create your portrait. We can work from life with traditional sittings (where I've heard some of the best life stories – I should have been a therapist), from photographs, or even a combination of both. Each approach has its own magic, and we'll figure out what works best for you. No need to hold that smile until your face hurts if you don't want to – though I promise the live sittings are more fun than they sound!

Creating Your Legacy (Or: How to Become Immortal, Sort Of)

When you commission a portrait, you're not just getting a painting – you're creating something that will outlast all those phone selfies. Imagine your great-grandchildren standing before your portrait, saying, "So that's where I got my nose!" (Though if you're not happy with your nose, we can have a quiet word about that.)

Commission a portrait artist, original oil painting for sale "Portrait of a Seated Woman" by Marcus Callum Artist

The Investment

Let's talk money – because yes, a portrait costs more than a selfie stick. But think of it this way: it's an investment in your family's legacy, a piece of art that will appreciate over time, and let's be honest, it's a lot more impressive than that motivational poster you've had in your hallway since 2003.

Ready to Begin?

Want to create something extraordinary together? Something that captures not just your face, but your spirit (and maybe that twinkle in your eye)? Let's talk. I promise to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Remember: in a world of filters and quick snaps, a portrait is forever. No pressure though – I'm pretty good at capturing smiles, even nervous ones.

Ready to start your portrait journey? Get in touch with me directly. I don't bite, and I always have good coffee. View my portrait commission gallery here to see more examples of my work.

Commission a portrait artist in the UK: Original oil portrait painting "Meg" by Marcus Callum Artist

Marcus Callum is an award-winning portrait artist who has spent three decades proving that paint and canvas can capture more personality than any smartphone. His work hangs in galleries and homes worldwide, bringing joy to viewers and only occasional embarrassment to his subjects.

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