A Moment in Time
Private Portrait Commissions
My practice has traditionally centred on wildlife, conservation and the natural world, and that same focused interest in observation, intimacy and fleeting moments extends naturally into my work with people.
I create intimate, atmospheric oil paintings from photographs I take personally; capturing a moment, place, relationship or feeling that has meaning to you.
Working closely with my clients and in collaboration with nature, we create the reference for the painting together, considering all relevant aspects of setting, mood, natural lighting and composition before I translate that moment into an original oil painting.
The Process
01 - We meet
Every commission begins with a conversation. We discuss who or what you would like to capture, the significance of the painting, and the setting or environment that feels most meaningful to you. I then photograph you personally, allowing the session to unfold naturally rather than working towards a conventional, posed studio portrait.
02 - We find the moment
From these photographs, we look for the image that holds something more; a gesture, interaction, landscape, relationship or fleeting expression. I’ll then work with you to refine the composition and sense of atmosphere before I begin painting.
03 - Painting
Working from the selected reference, I create your original oil painting. My approach is slow and considered, with the aim of capturing not simply a likeness, but the atmosphere and feeling of the moment. I’ll share progress with you along the way, from the early stages through to the finished work.
04 - You receive your original oil painting along with the high res digital images captured on our shoot day
Your completed oil painting is professionally finished, signed and carefully prepared for delivery. The result is a completely one-of-a-kind artwork, created specifically for you or someone you love.
Selected Commissions
Each painting begins with a moment, captured personally and translated into oil.
The Investment
Private portrait commissions from
R48,000
USD 2,800 | GBP 2,100
Each commission is individually quoted according to size, complexity and scope of the painting.
Included:
A private photographic session
Consultation around mood, location and composition
Selection and development of the final reference image
An original oil painting created specifically for you
Progress updates throughout the painting process
Professional finishing and signing
Presentation and protective packaging
Photography sessions are arranged around the location and circumstances of each commission. Based in the Western Cape, I am also available to travel for commissions by arrangement.
Framing and delivery/shipping are quoted separately.
A 50% deposit secures your commission, with the remaining balance payable on completion before delivery.
A limited number of commissions
I accept only a small number of private commissions each year, allowing each painting the time and attention it deserves.
I am currently accepting a limited number of commissions for Summer 2026/27.