1. Why have a portrait painted, and why oil on canvas?
Commissioning an oil portrait is a unique way to recognize achievement, celebrate success, or treasure a remembrance. Dave's paintings are crafted to show character and interest.

The depth and luminosity of oil painting in general—and flesh tones in particular—cannot be matched in any other medium. With the traditional academic techniques that Dave uses, an oil painting can last beyond a lifetime; it can be preserved as a precious heirloom and as a work of fine art.

2. How much does an oil portrait cost?
It depends on the size of the portrait, the amount of detail in the work, and other factors. For a custom work of fine art and lasting value, you will find that commission rates of Portraits by Turner are both reasonable and competitive. See Price Guide for details.

3. Is there an artist's agent or gallery to work through?
Dave prefers to work directly with his portrait clients, rather than work through an agent or gallery. With direct consultation, work on a portrait usually can get started and completed sooner. Also, there is less likelihood of any misunderstanding between the artist and client.

4. How long will I have to sit?
After a brief initial sitting, the canvas is painted from sketches and selected reference photographs, without the subject being personally present. A brief, final sitting may be necessary as the portrait nears completion. See the Portrait Process for more details.

5. What's involved in commissioning a portrait? — I live a long way from the artist's studio.
Dave is available to travel nationwide for the initial consultation and sitting. He will return to his studio to complete the portrait. Alternatively, a portrait can be commissioned and produced with neither the artist or client having to travel.

The portrait process is essentially the same for local or long-distance clients. For the convenience of his long-distance clients, the artist consults by phone, mail, or e-mail. To consult with you regarding a commission, Dave needs a large color photograph. (Please contact the artist for specifics.)

After the portrait details and commission rate are agreed, Dave will complete the underpainting and mail you a photo of it. At this point, 50% of the commission is due. The remaining 50% is due after you approve a photo of the finished portrait. The portrait will be shipped pre-paid by ground carrier. If you prefer, you may accept the extra charges of overnight and/or insured delivery.

6. What about portraits of infants or toddlers?
To capture the warmth and delight of young children, high-quality reference photographs are essential. During your consultation with the artist, he will make appropriate recommendations based on the age and personality of the child. See the Portrait Gallery for an example of a toddler's portrait.

7. Can portraits of pets be commissioned?
Dave prefers to work with human subjects, although he has been known to make exceptions. For example, a family group portrait may include a pet as part of the composition. See the Portrait Gallery for an example of an unusual pet. See also the portrait Lady in a Red Dress on the What's New page.

8. Can I commission a posthumous portrait?
Yes, this is quite possible if there are suitable photographs of the deceased. See question 5 for details on how portraits can be done without face-to-face contact between the artist and subject.

9. Can I have changes made to my portrait?
Minor corrections can be made as the work is close to completion. Significant changes are rarely necessary if sufficient time is taken at the initial consultation to reach a mutual understanding. Also, if the finished underpainting is carefully reviewed by the client, later corrections are seldom required.

10. Can I commission a still life or landscape?
Dave prefers to accept portrait commissions. In some portraits, it may be possible to include still-life elements in the composition, or a landscape in the background. See the Portrait Gallery for an example. Occasionally, Dave does non-portrait work (see Non-portrait Works). Please check with the artist to discuss what you have in mind.

11. Can I get a portrait painted in pastel or watercolor?
Dave's medium of choice is oil. Each medium requires special techniques that take time and skill to master. Dave has devoted his efforts to the oil painting techniques of the Old Masters. This is his specialty. He rarely works with pastels or watercolor.

12. What is the mailing address for Portraits by Turner?
Send mail to Portraits by Turner, c/o Dave Turner, P.O. Box 1638, Apex, NC 27502, USA

13. What is the e-mail address for Portraits by Turner?
Send e-mail to Dave Turner at dt@portraitsbyturner.com

14. What is the artist's background?
Dave received his art education in London, England and has painted in oils for over 25 years. He applies portrait techniques used by the Old Masters and couples these techniques with more modern methods and materials. Dave has developed a method and style of portraiture that satisfies clients with realism, characterization, and lasting value.

Dave has chosen not to compete for prizes or recognition, and not to have gallery representation. His time and artistic energy are focused exclusively on painting portraits. His client base is built up largely through referrals recommending his work.

15. Any relation to J. M. W. Turner?
No, but Dave is an admirer of the famous British painter's work. Dave especially likes his namesake's light-filled, atmospheric seascapes such as The Fighting Temeraire.