FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What type of art do you offer?

Commissioned pet and equine portraits, as well as original wildlife artwork.

What mediums do you use?

For pet and equine portraits, all are done in soft (chalk) pastels and pastel pencils on acid-free paper.

Original wildlife art may be completed in either pastels on paper, or in acrylic paint on canvas.

At this time, portraits are not offered in paint on canvas.

What is the current processing time for a commissioned portrait?

Do you offer rushed processing?

Current processing time is 4 to 6 weeks.

This process cannot be rushed. I guarantee the highest quality in your portrait, and that quality is ensured within this time line. This processing time also allows balance between my artwork, full-time job, and home life.

If your portrait is for a gift, please plan ahead to provide adequate timing for the completion of your portrait; and please also take into consideration shipping delays due to COVID-19.

What type of photo should I submit for my portrait?

Please send a photo of your pet that is clear and has good natural lighting.

Distorted images or low lighting make it difficult to determine details on your pet, such as fur type, coat pattern or color, and/or eye color. Multiple reference photos may be requested, to ensure details are captured correctly.

I recommend choosing a photo of your pet that shows their personality. If you cannot decide between photos, please let me know and we can determine which photo would be the best for your portrait.

What is included in my portrait?

The cost of your portrait includes either a 9x12 or 11x14 signed pastel drawing of your pet, with plain white or colored background; and is matted on acid-free mat board. This is ready for framing, and sealed in a crystal clear bag for protection during transit or until you can get it framed.  A Certificate of Authenticity will also be included.

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What is the difference between the 9x12 and 11x14 size portraits?

9x12 is best to capture the head and neck of your pet (final matted dimensions: 12x16)

11x14 is also suitable the head and neck, or full body of your pet (final matted dimensions: 16X20)

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How do you determine pricing for your artwork? Is this negotiable?

Prices are reflective of my time, materials, and are at current market value for the size of your portrait and reflect the quality of artwork you will be receiving. 

At this time, pricing does not  include shipping.

All prices are non-negotiable.

How many hours does each portrait take?

Each piece is uniquely different, which may vary in hours.

Pet and equine portraits may take up to 60 hours. While original wildlife art may take 80 to 120+ hours.

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Can I add another pet in my portrait?

Although, one pet is preferred per portrait, additional pet(s) may be included for an additional cost. As another subject requires time and detail, this may also increase your processing time. Please contact me to discuss further.

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Can I add a family member in my portrait?

Unfortunately, human subjects may not be included in your portrait.

Animal subjects only please, as this is what I specialize best in.

Do you offer framing services?

At this time, I do not offer framing for artwork.

Portraits are standard sizing, including matting. You may find frames through online retailers, at your local custom framing shop, or at your local craft stores.

Do you require a deposit? Is this refundable?

Yes, a 25% non-refundable deposit is required at time of booking.

This will ensure your commissioned spot is saved and will guarantee your completed timeline. All commissioned spots are first come, first serve, and based on receipt of your deposit payment.

However, your satisfaction is of the utmost importance. Once your portrait is complete, you will receive a water-marked proof of your portrait. If you are not satisfied with your final portrait, we will work to make adjustments to your image. If you are still not satisfied, I will be happy to issue a full refund.

When is my remaining balance due?

Final payment will be due once your commission is completed. You are welcome to pay ahead the full price at the time of booking, or pay the balance payment prior to completion should you choose to do so.

Your portrait will not ship until your final payment is received.

When will you ship my portrait?

How much do you charge for shipping, and what carriers do you use?

Once your portrait is complete, we will make arrangements with you for estimated parcel arrival.

At this time, shipping will be quoted based on your location. International parcels may incur additional charges.

All portraits are shipped in a padded box, and will be insured for the value of your portrait.  A tracking number will be provided to you by email.

Please provide a current and valid mailing address. Upon request, a signature may be required at time of delivery.

For domestic shipments, UPS or the US Postal Service will be used (please know UPS will not deliver to a PO Box)

For International shipments, only US Postal Service will be used.

Again, your portrait will not ship until your final payment is received.

Please plan accordingly, I will not be responsible for any delays in shipping due to COVID-19.

What types of payment do you accept?

Acceptable forms of payment are: PayPal, Venmo, or Money Orders.

Personal checks are not accepted.

Why does your wildlife artwork cost more?

Most of my wildlife artwork is offered in similar or larger format then portraits, and they may take double the hours to complete. Some may be as large as 18”x24” or larger. They also include a detailed background or scene, and may include additional animals. Also, if done on canvas, there is an increased labor and time for painting. Some originals are also framed where as noted, and this is included in the listed price as well.

Do you offer prints of your wildlife artwork?

At this time, prints are not available. However, if there is a specific painting or drawing you are interested in, please let me know.

What does “WIP” mean?

WIP is an acronym for “work in progress” and I will frequently us this on my social media accounts when sharing projects or portraits am working on.

If progress of a portrait is shared, it is with permission of the client who commissioned the work. I will never share progress images of a piece of artwork that is commissioned to be a gift; and only ask that I may share the final image once the portrait has been fully completed and gifted to the recipient.

Additional Questions or Comments?

Please email me at staceylackmanart@gmail.com

All emails will be answered within 24-48 hours