Art dealer shares expertise on painted portraits

Find a painter for your portrait

When so many important moments in our lives are captured by smartphones and shared only online, a painted portrait can be an enduring gift.

“A portrait painting is much more than a fleeting moment shot in a second by a ma chine,” says local art dealer Evelyne Pinkus. “It is a tribute, a great expression of love. It captures the inner essence of the subject.”

But finding the right artist can be challenging. As with other professionals, it is important to find an artist whose work and personality meshes with our own desires.

Pinkus has access to an extensive roster of artists, and so we talked with her about the best way to begin.

Q. What do you believe is the value of painted portraits?

A. If it is done well, it shows the sitter at his or her best. I am not only referring to his or her physical best, but also an inner quality seen by the artist. The artist’s personal perspective and style will be the most significant factor in the aesthetic of the painting. The colors, the position of the subject, the surroundings, the clothing, even the size of the painting itself all add to the aesthetics. A meaningful piece of jewelry, painted in detail, a book or other objects can be included, adding significance to the work.

A portrait painting makes a statement wherever it is hung. It can be tailor-made to fit the requests and ideas of the person commissioning it. It can be a watercolor or an oil, on paper or on canvas. It can be colorful or muted. The size can also be custom ordered to fit a particular space. The frame, which many people do not lend enough consideration to, is almost as important as the work of art. The right frame not only enhances the picture, but will adorn the room itself.

Q. How does one choose between a painted or photographic portrait?

A. A photographic image is more accurate than a painting, but it will never replace a portrait painting. A painting is the product of the relationship between the artist and the sitter, their energy together, and the passion of the artist for his or her work. A good artist will accentuate any characteristic he or she finds important, which sometimes leads to a separation from realism. Because of the time and devotion this art form requires, the subject’s essence is expressed, on canvas, through the artist’s unfiltered ideas. A pho- tograph reflects reality, a moment in time. A painting expresses more than meets the eye.

Q. How do you feel about portraits recreated from photographs?

A. I am not a advocate of this method. If absolutely necessary, I would suggest hav- ing a professional photograph taken for the portrait. The sitter should be in a position he or she could hold for several hours, as if actually sitting for the portrait. Candid family snapshots tend not to turn out very well. The facial expressions can look artificial when reproduced in oil, and can end up looking “cheesy,” for lack of a better word. In the case of babies, who can’t keep still through a sitting, painting from a sharp photo is optimal.

Q. Are there instances in which a portrait might gain monetary value? A. Portraits painted by well-known artists have that potential. If the person in the painting is well known, it might become more valuable over time. If the sitter is painted within a scene, i.e. a little girl in her room surrounded by her toys or holding a doll, it could gain value over time because it is a charming scene that will appeal to most people. I have a beautiful portrait in my living room of a young lady, painted in watercolor, in the 18th century. This painting will always be easy to sell and will maintain its value because it has two things going for it: the artist is well known, and although the sitter is not, she is charming in her beauti- ful dress and floral wreath on her hair. The frame is also of the period.

Q. Would a painted portrait still be considered a status symbol?

A. Yes. In previous centuries, well-to-do families and the nobility commissioned portraits; it was costly and considered a luxury. These days, portraiture is an affordable status symbol that’s coming back. We are spending much more time at home, and so are looking for ways to make our homes more attractive. Painted portraits provide endless pleasure, and are also great conversation pieces!

Q. How should one go about finding the right artist?

A. I would suggest visiting art galleries to establish the style of painting you want. I can also work with clients to find an artist and help determine the style that best fits their home, budget and lifestyle. Art schools are full of students interested in being commissioned to paint. Many lesser-known artists are, too. This is what makes portraiture af- fordable to many people.

Evelyne Pinkus may be reached at (908) 462-4723. Visit her website at EPinkusFineArt.com.