PORTRAITS | COMMISSIONS

Contemporary artist Elizabeth R. Whelan paints our world in all its complexity, with a focus on portraiture. Working from her studio on the island of Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts, Whelan creates distinctive fine art portraits that will last generations.

Contact Elizabeth Whelan

Elizabeth R. Whelan: The Value of a Portrait

Seeing art in person can be a life-changing experience, both humbling and inspiring.
And in any art museum, portraits are everywhere: in every style, color, and size, from every country and created by every type of artist.

In a portrait's brushstrokes we find a path connecting us to another human on a timeless level.

Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, van Gogh and Rembrandt's many self-portraits, these are just a few of the well-known portraits that have come down to us through the ages. Their popularity is testimony to the power and value of capturing personality, character, and aspect, on canvas.

Oil paint captures the living qualities of the human face and body like no other medium. Skillfully handled, the portrait transcends technique and draws the viewer in, and a single artist creates a treasure for us all.

The Painting Commission Process

Commissioning a portrait or other painting is a significant moment, and Elizabeth Whelan makes the process straightforward and enjoyable.
Portrait Process
Commissioning and sitting for a portrait is an exciting and unique experience.
Portrait Fees
A guide to portrait fees, which are based on factors including the size and complexity of the painting.
Other Commissions
Elizabeth Whelan also paints nautical and coastal subjects, landscapes, still life, as well as animals.
Visit the artist's studio
Working from her studio on Martha's Vineyard, Elizabeth paints and draws daily. Art is the foundation of her life.
What her clients say:
Your talent and love and generosity make the painting shine and we are very grateful that you hold us gently at a moment in our lives and in a place that we all love dearly.
portrait painting testimonial elizabeth whelan

Mother of family Martha's Vineyard

Thank you so much...We think it looks amazing and beautiful and really captures [our retiring CEO].
portrait painting testimonial elizabeth whelan

US luxury jewelry company New York City

The portrait of [father] exceeds our expectations. You must hear this from all your happy clients. Each day we enjoy another aspect of it.
painting testimonial elizabeth whelan

Family of portrait subject Martha's Vineyard

My portrait was unveiled this a.m. You are a true genius and master! ...Thank you again for all you did and because of you, it was truly painless.
portrait painting testimonial elizabeth whelan

Retired doctor, surgeon New York City

Deliver a product of consistent quality, at your highest level of ability.

Be able to deal with the ups and downs of getting paid, mostly not on time. After your business becomes established there will be a more consistent cash flow and you can build a financial cushion. However, to begin with, the best way to handle the feast and famine situation is to keep out of debt. If you leave school with debt, take any job you need to in order to pay it down as quickly as possible, and then stay out of debt to the greatest degree you can.

Recognize what helps you to be creative, what times of day are the best work hours for you, what environment works best, and then try to create that environment and work within that schedule.

Be able to diminish the distractions and focus.

Lastly, build a solid network. The support of family, friends, clients, and acquaintances can help you on both a business and personal level!