Private Commission
Current status: Accepting preliminary enquiries
I undertake a very small number of private commissions each year, allowing each painting the time and attention required from the initial conversation through to the finished work.
Commission places are typically confirmed 6–8 months before painting begins, so I recommend making an enquiry well in advance if you have a particular date or occasion in mind.
With only one to two commissions accepted annually, each project becomes a more personal collaboration between artist and collector, with time given to understanding the subject, developing the composition and creating the painting.
If you are considering a commission, I would be delighted to hear from you.
This selective process ensures every commissioned work receives the dedication, research and artistic vision it deserves.
My studio practice
Is centred on creating original paintings from my own ideas, observations and responses to horses, figures and the Scottish landscape. These paintings form the main body of my work.
Alongside my independent painting, I undertake a very small number of private commissions each year. This allows me to bring the same care and artistic approach to a subject that has particular meaning to its owner, while continuing to develop my wider practice in the studio.
A commissioned painting is therefore not simply a portrait of a horse, but an original work created within my own artistic language and in response to the individual character and story of the subject.
Initial Consultation
Every commission begins with a conversation.
I like to hear about the horse, its character and what makes it special to you, as well as what you hope the finished painting will convey. We can discuss your ideas for the composition, setting and size, and look at the photographs and other reference material you have available.
This is also an opportunity to talk through the process, timescale and practical details, and to make sure that my approach is right for what you have in mind.
There is no obligation at this stage. It is simply the beginning of the conversation.
-
Once your commission is confirmed, I begin a period of careful study, usually lasting around 3–4 weeks.
Where possible, I like to spend time with the subject itself, observing the horse beyond the photographs its proportions, expression, movement and the small details that give it character.
I work from a range of photographic references, supported by preparatory sketches, location studies and research into any historical or personal elements that are important to the painting.
This stage is about understanding the subject before I begin to paint. It allows me to consider composition, atmosphere and the qualities that will make the finished work feel individual rather than simply reproducing a reference photograph.
-
Once the composition and preparatory work are established, I begin the painting itself.
Working in layered oils, I gradually build the structure, colour, atmosphere and character of the subject. The painting develops over time, with careful attention to proportion and detail alongside the expressive brushwork and softened edges that form part of my style.
Throughout the process, I will share selected progress photographs so you can see the painting taking shape. There is an opportunity to discuss the work as it develops, particularly during the early stages, while allowing the painting to retain the freedom and direction of an original work of art.
The aim is not simply to reproduce the reference material, but to create a painting with its own presence one that feels true to the subject and to the relationship you have with it.
-
The painting usually develops over 4–6 months, allowing time for the work to evolve naturally rather than being rushed.
I work in layered oils, using high quality, archival materials and traditional painting techniques alongside a more expressive contemporary approach. As the painting develops, I refine the drawing, colour, tonal relationships and atmosphere, while allowing the brushwork and surface of the painting to retain a sense of life.
This is the stage where the character of the subject becomes increasingly clear. Some areas are brought into sharper definition; others are deliberately softened or left more open. I am looking for the balance between what needs to be described and what can be suggested.
The final painting should feel resolved without feeling overworked retaining both the individuality of the subject and the atmosphere of the original idea.
-
Every commission is created as a one of a kind original painting. The finished work is not reproduced as a print or duplicated as another original.
I select the materials according to the requirements of each painting, using high-quality, archival materials chosen for their suitability and longevity.
Materials may include:
Hand-stretched linen or fine archival paper, depending on the work
Professional-grade oil paints
Archival varnish and protective finishes appropriate to the painting
Sizes
The scale of a commission is discussed at the beginning of the process, taking into account the subject, composition and where the finished painting will be displayed.
As a guide:
Intimate works
16 × 20" to 20 × 24"Statement works
24 × 30" to 36 × 48"Larger works
48 × 60" and above, by discussionTimescale
A typical commission takes approximately 6–8 months from confirmation to completion and delivery.
Larger or more complex paintings may require additional time. I will discuss the expected timescale with you before the commission is confirmed.
-
WHAT'S INCLUDED
• Initial consultation and site visit (within 100 miles, if possible)
• All research and preparatory work
• Regular progress updates with collector input
• Professional photography and documentation
• Conservation grade framing consultation
• Certificate of authenticity and provenance documentation
Timelines typically range from 6-8 months depending on size and complexity
For information on commissioning a bespoke equine portrait. studio@pentlandrossart.com
I look forward to creating something meaningful of you
For further information on commissioning and bespoke equine portraits
"Working with so few collectors each year allows not just paintings to be created,
but lasting relationships and truly extraordinary works of art"
Bespoke Commission Enquiry
Preliminary Enquiry
Share your vision and determine if a commission partnership is right for both of us.
Private Consultation
Meeting to discuss your project in detail (by invitation following preliminary enquiry)