The creative, mental wheels start to turn the moment I receive a commission. I visualize what I might do with the request as far as composition of the painting, selecting the palette, working with the presentation.
My current commission is for a 48" x 60" painting filled with Bird of Paradise and Hibiscus. These plants are growing in my yard, so it has been easy to spend time with them.
After the studies are done and the palette is selected I will usually paint a small version. For this painting I am working on a square canvas for the smaller painting, so even though the composition will be a bit different in the larger work, I have the opportunity to adjust my palette, present the idea behind the larger work to the client, and work with the overall design.
When the small painting is 'complete' I send photos to the client to obtain their approval and confirm we are both on the same page, so to speak. Today is the day the photo of this small painting goes off to the client. Check back here later in the week and I will let you know what transpires.
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