Commissioned Portrait Painter Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of fine art, the role of commissioned portrait painters is more significant than ever.

Artistic creativity continues to evolve, and with each stroke, the demand for skilled artists who can capture, personify, and immortalize our physical likeness grows.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a commissioned portrait painter?

Whether you are:

• An artist seeking to understand the core of this role,
• An art patron framing the perfect commissioned artist,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricate process of portrait painting,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable commissioned portrait painter job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or art career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Commissioned Portrait Painter Duties and Responsibilities

Commissioned Portrait Painters are specialized artists who create unique and personal artwork for clients based on their specific requests.

Their artwork can include portraits of individuals, families, pets, or other subjects as required by the client.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Consult with clients to understand their requirements and preferences
• Create sketches, drafts, and samples to propose to the client for approval
• Use various artistic mediums such as oils, acrylics, or watercolors to create the final piece
• Ensure that the final artwork accurately and creatively represents the subject
• Regularly communicate with clients throughout the creation process to ensure satisfaction
• Deliver the final portrait within the agreed deadline
• Follow up with clients for feedback and potential adjustments to the artwork
• Maintain a portfolio of past works to show to potential clients
• Handle the marketing and selling of their artwork
• Manage financial transactions, including taking deposits and final payments

 

Commissioned Portrait Painter Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a talented and creative Portrait Painter to create high-quality commissioned artwork for our clients.

The Portrait Painter will be responsible for consulting with clients to understand their needs, developing an artistic concept that meets their expectations, and creating unique, personalized paintings.

Experience in a variety of artistic styles, as well as excellent customer service and communication skills, are crucial for this role.

 

Responsibilities

• Consult with clients to understand their artistic preferences and the purpose of the portrait
• Create sketches or preliminary artwork to present to clients for approval
• Develop and execute final artwork based on client feedback
• Ensure all artwork is completed on time and to the satisfaction of the client
• Maintain a portfolio of past work to showcase artistic abilities
• Keep workspace clean and organized, ensuring all supplies are readily available
• Stay up-to-date with industry trends and new techniques to incorporate into work

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a professional portrait painter
• Strong portfolio showcasing a range of artistic styles
• Excellent communication skills and ability to interpret client needs
• Strong attention to detail and a keen eye for color, texture, and light
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• Formal education in fine arts or a related field is preferred

 

Benefits

• Flexible working hours
• Opportunity to work on a variety of interesting projects
• Exposure and recognition in the art community
• Potential for travel
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Commissioned Portrait Painter
• Work Environment: Studio setting with occasional travel for client meetings. Must be comfortable working in a solitary environment for long periods.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Art Director or Gallery Owner.
• Salary: Payment is typically per commission. Rates may vary based on the complexity of the project and the artist’s experience.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Contractual or Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity in our team. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter, and a portfolio of your work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Commissioned Portrait Painter Do?

Commissioned Portrait Painters are specialized artists who are hired to create custom portraits.

These portraits can be of individuals, families, pets, or even symbolic representations of businesses and organizations.

These artists engage with their clients to understand their desires and expectations for the final artwork.

This includes discussing the painting’s size, color palette, style, and other specific details such as the setting or background.

Commissioned Portrait Painters sketch preliminary designs, often using photographs as references to ensure accuracy.

They then create the final portrait using paints, typically acrylics or oils, on canvas or other mediums.

Throughout the process, these artists are responsible for capturing the subject’s likeness and personality accurately while ensuring the artwork aligns with the client’s vision.

They may also handle administrative tasks such as maintaining a portfolio of their work, marketing their services, managing client relationships, and ensuring timely delivery of the finished artwork.

While some Commissioned Portrait Painters may work for art studios or galleries, many are self-employed, managing their own business and commissions.

 

Commissioned Portrait Painter Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Commissioned Portrait Painter should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Advanced skills in various painting techniques and mediums such as oil, acrylic, watercolor, and charcoal to create portraits that accurately depict the subject.
• Exceptional artistic ability and creativity to capture the essence and personality of the subject and bring it to life on canvas.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure the likeness and nuances of the subject are accurately captured in the portrait.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to understand the client’s vision, discuss artistic decisions, and provide regular updates on the progress of the work.
• Strong time management skills to complete commissioned works within the agreed timelines.
• Ability to work well under pressure and adapt to changes in the client’s requirements or preferences.
• Understanding of art history and various art styles, to cater to diverse client preferences and requirements.
• Business skills to effectively manage commissions, negotiate contracts, and market their work to potential clients.

 

Commissioned Portrait Painter Experience Requirements

Aspiring Commissioned Portrait Painters often start their journey with a foundation in fine arts or related field, which can be attained through a degree program or self-teaching.

They should have a significant amount of practice in various art mediums, but particularly in the medium they choose for their portraits.

In terms of experience, entry-level commissioned portrait painters usually have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through an art internship or part-time role in a related field.

These emerging artists can also gain on-the-job experience through roles such as Art Teacher, Illustrator, or Muralist, which allow them to improve their artistic skills and technique.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a portfolio that demonstrates their ability to capture human likeness, character, and personality through their artwork.

This portfolio is essential in showcasing their talent and attracting potential clients.

Portrait painters with more than 5 years of experience are often well-established within their field and may have a client base of their own.

These artists may have experience in managing their own small business, marketing their work, and dealing with clients, which are key aspects of a successful career as a commissioned portrait painter.

It’s important to note that the learning journey for a commissioned portrait painter is continuous, as they constantly evolve their techniques, experiment with new mediums, and keep up to date with modern art trends.

 

Commissioned Portrait Painter Education and Training Requirements

Commissioned Portrait Painters typically have a bachelor’s degree in fine arts or a similar field.

Their education usually includes courses in drawing, painting, and art history.

Many also study human anatomy in order to create realistic, detailed portraits.

An aspiring portrait painter might also participate in an apprenticeship with a professional artist to gain practical experience and refine their skills.

While not strictly required, some portrait painters may choose to earn a master’s degree in fine arts to further enhance their skills, specialize in a certain style or medium, or gain teaching credentials.

Beyond formal education, these artists typically need a portfolio to showcase their work to potential clients.

This portfolio should display a range of skills and styles, but focus primarily on portraiture.

Professional development workshops and ongoing art classes can also be beneficial for staying current with new techniques and materials.

Although there is no official licensing requirement for portrait painters, membership in professional organizations can enhance credibility and provide networking opportunities.

 

Commissioned Portrait Painter Salary Expectations

The average income for a Commissioned Portrait Painter can greatly vary as it largely depends on the number of commissions they receive, their reputation, and the prices they set for their work.

However, to give a rough estimate, a successful portrait artist can expect to earn between $30,000 to $60,000 (USD) per year.

The actual earnings may be more or less, depending on the artist’s skill, clientele, pricing, location, and the medium used.

 

Commissioned Portrait Painter Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Commissioned Portrait Painter need?

A Commissioned Portrait Painter requires excellent technical art skills, particularly in the medium they specialize in.

They should have a good understanding of human anatomy and be able to accurately depict a person’s likeness.

The ability to communicate effectively with clients is important for understanding their vision and delivering the work they want.

Organizational skills and time management are also key, as painters often have to manage multiple commissions at once and meet strict deadlines.

 

Do Commissioned Portrait Painters need a degree?

A degree is not necessary for a Commissioned Portrait Painter, but a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts can provide a solid foundation in the techniques and principles of art.

However, talent, skills, and a strong portfolio are generally more important in this field than formal education.

Some painters may also opt for specialized training courses or apprenticeships to improve their skills.

 

What should you look for in a Commissioned Portrait Painter’s portfolio?

A portfolio should showcase a painter’s range and versatility, showing a variety of styles, mediums, and subjects.

Look for portraits that capture the likeness, personality, and emotion of the subject.

Attention to detail, color, light, and shadow are also important.

A good portfolio should show consistency in quality across all works.

 

What qualities make a good Commissioned Portrait Painter?

A good Commissioned Portrait Painter is patient and meticulous, with a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of human anatomy.

They should have excellent communication skills to understand their clients’ needs and preferences.

Dedication and passion for art, creativity, and the ability to work under pressure to meet deadlines are also important qualities.

 

Is it challenging to find a good Commissioned Portrait Painter?

Finding a good Commissioned Portrait Painter can be challenging due to the highly specialized nature of the work.

It requires not only technical skill and creativity but also the ability to capture the likeness and personality of the subject.

However, by reviewing portfolios and conducting interviews, you can find a painter whose style and skills match what you’re looking for.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unveiled the canvas that truly portrays the life of a commissioned portrait painter.

And guess what?

It’s not just about brushing paint on canvas.

It’s about bringing life to a blank space, one stroke at a time.

With our go-to commissioned portrait painter job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to create your masterpiece.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating a work of art in job listings or refining your resume to brilliance.

Remember:

Every brush stroke contributes to the greater image.

Let’s create that masterpiece. Together.

How to Become a Commissioned Portrait Painter (Complete Guide)

Thriving in the Face of Danger: The Allure of High-Risk Careers

Job Nirvana: The Most Satisfying Careers You Can Find

Ditch the Desk: Exciting Careers That Pay Surprisingly Well

Say Goodbye to Office Life: Top Remote Jobs with Amazing Paychecks!