PORTRAITURE
Background
I first fell in love with portraiture while I was a child. At 10 years old, I drew portraits of my family and found it a thrilling experience. As I studied art, I began to admire the work of artists like William Bouguereau, John Singer Sargent, Joaquín Sorolla and many others. I began taking commissions while I was still a student at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Since then, I have been proud to create dozens of portraits for individuals, families and organizations across the US and abroad.
Process
Being asked to paint a commission is a process that I am very honored by. I begin the process by asking the patron some simple questions in regards to what they are looking for. Questions concerning the sitter(s), the canvas size they're looking for, the type of background they would like, etc. All of these questions are logistical questions which allow me to begin working in a procedural fashion. More importantly, what feeling is the patron is trying to convey through the painting? I also ask myself what type of character and gesture does this sitter have? These questions help me to figure out a narrative and a story to tell in the final painting.
The actual portrait process includes sketches in pencil, charcoal and usually oils. This is all part of the academic method of painting which I practice and have studied extensively. I paint directly (meaning I don't work with elaborate underpaintings), but require a large amount of "research" in order to feel comfortable before I begin a final painting. I prefer to stretch my own canvas which also allows for custom sizes. I work on oil ground linen and I always use the highest quality materials, which is also important for the longevity of the painting. After painting, the process is completed with a final varnish, which can be modified to create a particular surface quality (matte to extra glossy).
I enjoy each step of the painting process and if you commission a work from me, it will be a Santoli, 100%.
The actual portrait process includes sketches in pencil, charcoal and usually oils. This is all part of the academic method of painting which I practice and have studied extensively. I paint directly (meaning I don't work with elaborate underpaintings), but require a large amount of "research" in order to feel comfortable before I begin a final painting. I prefer to stretch my own canvas which also allows for custom sizes. I work on oil ground linen and I always use the highest quality materials, which is also important for the longevity of the painting. After painting, the process is completed with a final varnish, which can be modified to create a particular surface quality (matte to extra glossy).
I enjoy each step of the painting process and if you commission a work from me, it will be a Santoli, 100%.
Works are available in oil, watercolor, charcoal & graphite.
View my PDF book of likeness examples
Autoritratti a Firenze (Self Portrait in Florence) - Oil Painting, 2024