News and Frequently Asked Questions
Ceramics
I sell ceramics locally and direct, by commission. All ceramics are made of non-porous, high-fired porcelain or stoneware. Each piece is twice-fired, finished in gas reduction up to 2400 degrees Farenheit (cone 10). They are dishwasher and microwave-safe, top shelf recommended.
Fine Art Prints
All prints are on a hand-trimmed 8.5 x 11” sheet, using archival inks on acid-free, 330 gsm, 100% cotton paper, with a smooth matte finish.
Image dimensions are given in inches and may include background space. Most often, there is some flexibility, especially if framing with a mat. If you need dimensions for the figure or subject only, feel free to ask.
To show details, images may be given in multiple views, but prints are not available in each and every view. The Fine Art Print is based on the last image in the set. The gallery view also matches the real-life aspect ratio and cropping. If there’s any doubt, you can confirm with the dimensions provided (width x height). If desired, you have the opportunity to re-crop in your mat and framing choices.
Avoiding direct sunlight and archival framing are recommended. Prints are not waterproof.
Prices are tax-inclusive. U.S. deliveries are flat rate USPS and go out on Fridays. Delivery within the U.S. typically takes 2-3 business days, overnight in the San Francisco Bay Area. Non-U.S. shipping is an additional $25 USD.
Commissions
I welcome ceramics and painting commissions. If you’re interested in something that has sold out, or in something you don’t see here, please feel free to ask.
Pet Portraiture
I’m delighted to paint pet portraits. To commission a portrait, please send me a message. Turnaround time is 2-4 weeks, usually closer to two, depending on season. I will need some good photos for reference (guidelines below).
Photography for Commissions
I use reference photographs to draw from, and I ask clients to provide a selection. In making your portrait, more than anything, I hope to make you happy, to capture the likeness and spirit of your pet, and give you something to treasure and enjoy for years to come. Toward that end, the photographs I start with make all the difference. 1-2 good shots is all it takes, but please send me photos you love. The better the starting photography, the better the portrait!
Some helpful tips:
Eye-level. Take the photo at or near eye level with your pet. The best angles are with your pet looking directly at you or with their head slightly tilted to one side looking past the camera. 3/4 views work well too.
Focus. The photo should be crisp and in focus, so I can make out details and see as much visual information as possible. It helps to try to focus on the eyes.
Well-lit, not too much. Natural light is best. This can be in or out of doors. The light should be diffused and even, not stark and contrasty, as in brightest sun. Bright sunlight, the kind that makes people squint in photos, also makes dark shadows and is unflattering. Ideal conditions would be outside on a light, but overcast day.
No flash, please.
Please send only photos you enjoy. If you don’t like the starting photo, you might not like the portrait. And I want you to love it.