A portrait commission requires the person to be painted to sit for me so that I can communicate with them.

Where it is not possible for someone to sit still I use photography. To me it is more important how I relate with the person I am to portrait. I enjoy the dialogue and sittings are special moments to me.

I think a minimum of four sittings are required for my paintings. I also like to paint people in their own environment. I am fairly mobile and the energy of the place where the portrait is painted should definitively be considered even if the background does not feature greatly in the actual painting.

If in doubt think 'convenience'.

A portrait evolves. My business is not merely to copy someone's features but to reveal something of, well, their essence. This is what makes you feel you know someone when you meet them. A good portrait will familiarise you with someone you have never met.

I believe there is something special in each of us and when we are sufficiently at ease this is what shows and makes us shine. Therefore I do all I can to ensure the technicalities of portraiture do not come in the way of the dialogue between me and the person I'm painting.

Locket miniatures are painted in oil on an ivory substitute called ivorine. They are strictly painted from a photograph provided by you and fitted by me into a locket which you also need to supply.

Prices start at £80. The better the photograph the more I have to go on. You will need to send me an original photograph ideally at least A5 (half A4) in size which I will return upon completion.

Speed Portraits are done in two fun sessions lasting two hours each, painted in acrylic on artist paper. They require fairly mature sitters who, from time to time, can hold a short pose or smile for me when needed. The rest of the time is spent very chilled out.

Prices start at £100 and I do charge for expenses with home visits.