Custom Portraits and Available Paintings, FAQ by Peter Engels
Looking for a portrait commission, or hoping to buy a finished painting right away? Peter Engels does both. About half of his work is commissioned portrait painting, made to order from your photos. The other half is painted from pure curiosity and inspiration, the most intuitive, inventive work, and often the quickest to own because it is already available.
Available vs commission
Are Peter Engels paintings only made on commission?
No. Peter Engels paints both commissions and self inspired artworks. Commissions are made to order, while available paintings are finished works created from his own interest and intuition.
Should I buy an available painting or commission a portrait from Peter Engels?
If you want the fastest route to owning a Peter Engels painting, start with the available works. These are often his most inventive and intuitive pieces, and they can usually be shipped sooner. A commission is ideal when you want a specific person, story, or format, made just for you.
Are the available paintings really his best work?
Many collectors feel the self inspired paintings show Peter Engels at his most free and experimental. They are driven by personal fascination, not by a brief. If one speaks to you, it is often the most direct “this is the artist” choice.
Can I request a commission in the same style as an available painting?
Yes. If you share the available painting that you love, Peter Engels can use it as a style reference for tone, palette, and overall mood. The commission will still be original, but it can echo the atmosphere you respond to.
Pricing and quotes
How much does a commissioned portrait by Peter Engels cost?
Pricing depends mainly on size, number of subjects, and complexity of background and clothing. Send one or two photos and you will receive a clear quote with size suggestions. Prices typically start around 7000 euros.
What affects the price of a Peter Engels portrait commission the most?
Size is the biggest factor, then the number of people, then the level of detail. A simple background is usually more efficient than a complex setting. If you are unsure, you can share your wishes and get guidance quickly.
Do you require a deposit for a portrait commission?
Yes, a deposit of 50% is typically requested to confirm the booking and reserve studio time. The balance is usually paid before shipping or pickup.
Can Peter Engels work within a specific budget?
Often, yes. The easiest lever is size and background simplicity. If you share your budget range, you will be offered realistic options that still look strong on the wall.
Turnaround time
How long does a portrait commission by Peter Engels take?
Most commissions take several weeks, sometimes longer depending on studio schedule and complexity. You will get an estimated timeframe upfront, based on your request.
Can you meet a deadline for a birthday or anniversary?
Sometimes. Share the deadline immediately. If it is feasible, you will get a clear yes and a practical plan.
How fast can I receive an available painting by Peter Engels?
Available paintings can often be delivered much faster because they are already finished. Timing depends mainly on destination, and shipping logistics.
Photo requirements
Can Peter Engels paint a portrait from a photo?
Yes. Most portrait commissions are painted from photos. If you send a few options, you will be told which one will work best for likeness, sharpness and lighting.
What makes a good reference photo for a Peter Engels portrait?
Sharp focus, natural light, and clear facial features help most. A photo taken near a window is usually better than harsh flash. If you only have older photos, send them anyway, you may be surprised what can be done.
Can you combine multiple photos into one portrait painting?
Yes. People can be combined when possible.
Can Peter Engels change the background or simplify it?
Yes. Backgrounds can be simplified, softened, or redesigned to fit your interior. You can keep it minimal, add atmosphere, or reference a meaningful place or object (like a car).
Can you add or remove a person, or include a pet?
Yes. A person can be added or removed, and pets can be included if you have good photos. You will be advised on what is realistic so the final result feels natural.
Process and revisions
What is the portrait commission process with Peter Engels?
You share photos and wishes, then you receive a quote and timeframe. After confirmation, a sketch will be made. After your approval the painting is created in the studio and you receive a progress update. Final delivery is arranged once the work is approved and ready.
Will I see progress photos during the painting?
Yes. You will usually receive a progress update at a sensible moment, so you feel involved without interrupting the flow of painting.
How many revisions are included in a Peter Engels commission?
A reasonable round of adjustments is typically included, especially for small details. Large changes, like changing the entire pose or replacing multiple people, may require additional time and cost.
Can I keep the commission a surprise gift?
Yes. You can request discreet communication and careful packaging. If you want a reveal moment, you can also receive a digital preview first.
Style, medium, sizes
What sizes are available for Peter Engels portraits and paintings?
Multiple sizes are possible, from intimate portrait formats to very large statement pieces. If you tell where it will hang, you will get size suggestions that work visually in the room.
Does Peter Engels paint in oil, acrylic, or mixed media?
Peter Engels primarily works in acrylic paint suited for professional, lasting artworks. Sometimes he uses beach sand to give the palette knife painting even more texture.
Can Peter Engels paint in sepia, monochrome, or a limited palette?
Yes. A sepia or vintage toned palette is a signature look many collectors love. You can request a specific mood, such as warm sepia, cool monochrome, or a restrained cinematic palette.
Shipping, framing, care
Do you ship Peter Engels paintings internationally?
Yes, shipping can be arranged internationally. The work is packed professionally to reduce risk in transit. Options depend on size and destination.
How do I care for an painting by Peter Engels?
Keep the painting out of harsh direct sunlight, and avoid high humidity. Dust lightly with a soft dry cloth, never with water or cleaning products. If you have questions about placement, you can ask with a photo of the room.
Authenticity and image rights
Do Peter Engels paintings come with a certificate of authenticity?
Yes, a certificate of authenticity can be provided. This is helpful for provenance, insurance, and future resale documentation.
Can I use images of my commissioned portrait on social media or a website?
Yes, personal sharing is generally fine. If you need commercial usage, such as for advertising, packaging, or large scale print, mention it upfront so rights can be clarified in writing.
How to start
How do I start, and what should I send?
Send a short message with your goal, commission or available painting. For a commission, include one to five photos, preferred size, and your deadline if any. For an available work, share the title or a screenshot, and you will receive purchase and delivery details.