An oil painting can typically take from 2 to 8 weeks to be ‘safely’ touch dry so a retouching varnish can be applied and the painting delivered to the client. An oil painting will continue to fully dry (or cure) over time and this process can typically take over 6 months.

As is the norm with any work of art, the copyright automatically remains with the creator. If the commissioned portrait is to be reproduced in another format or used for commercial purposes then Gary is more than happy to discuss such usage at the briefing stage.

Most portraits are provided with a retouching varnish applied which helps protect the oil painting. In time you may wish to replace this removable varnish layer with a final artists varnish which Gary can help you with. Gary always provides advice on looking after your painting upon delivery and explains the dos and don’ts on [...]

Wherever possible the artist prefers to deliver a completed portrait in person. Alternatively, clients are welcome to collect works from his studio by prior arrangement. When delivery in person or collection is not convenient, the artist will arrange for the painting to be carefully delivered by a specialist courier.

Gary works in quality artists' oil paints on either a cotton or linen canvas or canvas board or panel and he can happily advise which surface would be best for your painting. Currently the majority of the artist’s palette is made up of Winsor & Newton and Old Holland Artists' oil paints.