Why You Should Hire A Live Watercolor Guest Painter
Mollie Fox of Mollie Fox Studio was voted best live painter.
If you are trying to decide whether or not to hire a live watercolor guest portrait painter there are many things to consider.
What is the cost?
This is always first on everyone’s mind. Different artists base their prices on different factors such as their level of experience, their location, the materials they use and the quality of their work. Other things to consider are how fast the artist paints and what will be included in the painting.
Is it really worth the investment?
Wedding couples today are faced with countless numbers of add-ons for their celebration. When considering the expense of party favors, a live watercolor portrait is telling your guest you are grateful for their presence in your life and at your event. You are letting them know you see them and it means a lot to you that they showed up and showed out for your big day. Sure you can give them Jordan almonds or a crystal picture frame. You can also give them a once in a lifetime experience of getting a portrait painted in real time.
Finding the style that matches your vibe:
There are as many styles as there are artists, so do your research. Look at their portfolios. Do they paint in a very stylized painterly manner that resemble fashion editorial sketches or more realistic? Do they paint full figure or just the bust/upper half? Some live guest painters use templates and only change up the clothes and hair style. Other artists paint the guests as they are. Most of all, ask questions. How flexible are their skills and how fast are they?
What is the medium the artists uses?
Some live sketch artists use markers or pens, other use watercolor. The medium is as important as the style. Are you looking for archival quality art that your guest will want to frame and will last the test of time or are you thinking of these as cute items that will get magnetek to the fridge until the edges curl and they get thrown away. Neither is wrong, but know what you are getting.
What is the size of the painting?
Paper is fairly standardized and sizing is consistent so ask about the size your artist uses. Typically, live guest painters will use either 5 x 7 inches, 6 x 8, or 7 x 10. The larger the painting the greater the detail.,
Concerns that will everyone get a painting:
This is a matter of time and money. A live artist will be able to paint your guests in about 3-6 minutes. Ask about completing the guest list in the studio after the wedding. These can be added to the thank you notes and mailed after the fact. Some artists will subcontract additional artists for your event. Be sure that if they do, they styles are similar so as not to confuse your guests.
Have brush will travel:
Weddings happen everywhere, but artists tend to live in one place. Ask about travel. Most artists will travel and will need their airfare, accommodations, per diems, meals, etc. covered by you.
Will there be a contract?
There should always be a contract with terms and conditions including cancellations, refunds, and. most importantly clearly defined expectations. Also, definitely ask about their insurance situation.
