Commissions

Let’s make something for you

A portrait of someone you love, a landscape that holds a memory, or a mural for a shared space. Choose a package below, or tell me what you have in mind—we’ll shape the details together.

Start a commission How I create your painting

Packages

Starting points for watercolor commissions. Each includes conversation about reference photos, size, and finish.

Landscape commissions

Landscape

Watercolor pastel landscape featuring atmosphere, horizon, and emotional context. Choose 12×15 in ($250), 24×15 in ($450), or 24×48 in ($1,000).

From $250

Size

$250 total · deposit $125

50% deposit to start · Typical turnaround 2–4 weeks

Start a commission

Portrait commissions · 1–4 faces

Portrait

Watercolor pastel portrait with one to four faces. Priced per face by size: 7.5×12 in $100, 12×15 in $150, or 24×15 in $250 per face. A personal keepsake designed to feel timeless.

From $100

FacesSize

$100 total · deposit $50

50% deposit to start · Typical turnaround 2–4 weeks

Start a commission

My watercolor process

How I create your painting

My commissions combine the structure of a photograph or prepared composition with the movement of water and pigment. Watercolor pastels, pencils, and layered washes let me work from loose, textured impressions toward a more closely rendered likeness.

From reference to paper

I use projection to transfer a photograph or prepared composition onto watercolor paper. For this drawing stage, I typically use Caran d’Ache crayon pastels or watercolor pencils, and Daniel Smith pastels for larger formats.

A restricted palette

I usually work with three or four primary colors and a tone color, building the other colors through mixing and layering.

Water and layered washes

After transferring the composition, I wet it to let the pigments mingle. I then apply layers of Daniel Smith watercolor washes to build contours and depth.

Light and texture

I sometimes use wax to mask highlights, including colored wax for especially luminous passages. The texture of the watercolor paper can give the pigment a grainy, almost pixelated quality.

Finding the finish

Sometimes I leave a painting rough and open, with very little brushwork, letting the water and pigment produce beautiful effects by chance. For a more closely rendered result, I build on that base, smoothing the granulated texture and bringing the painting closer to the reference and to photorealism.

When we discuss your commission, tell me whether you’re drawn to a loose, textured interpretation or a more closely rendered finish.

Read the full process →

Commission FAQ

How do deposits and payment work?

A 50% deposit starts the commission. The balance is due when the painting is finished, before shipping or pickup.

How long does a commission take?

Typical turnaround is 2–4 weeks from when we agree on the approach and the deposit is received. Timing can vary with size, complexity, and my current schedule—I’ll share a clear estimate when we discuss your project.

What reference photos work best?

Clear, well-lit photos help most. For portraits, a sharp face and natural expression matter more than a perfect studio shot. For landscapes, share the mood and place you want to hold. You can upload images with the form or send them later by email.

Can I choose a loose or more rendered finish?

Yes. My watercolor process can stay open and textured or move closer to the reference. Tell me which direction you’re drawn to when we talk—details are on the process page.

Do you offer revisions?

We’ll agree on the composition and approach before painting begins. If something needs a small adjustment while the work is in progress, say so early—watercolor is layered and timing matters. Major redesigns after substantial work may need a new conversation about scope.

How is shipping handled?

Finished works ship carefully packaged from Seattle. Checkout ships within the US; for international shipping, contact me for a quote. Local pickup can be arranged. See shipping & returns for general guidance.

What about murals or custom sizes?

The packages above are watercolor starting points. For murals, larger formats, or something outside these sizes, use the form and describe the space or idea—we’ll price and schedule that separately.

Request a commission

Tell me about your idea

Share a few details and optional reference images. This is an inquiry—no payment until we agree on the approach.

Seattle, WA
tj@tjm.art
50% deposit to start
Typical turnaround 2–4 weeks

First NameLast Name

Email (required)PackageReference image (optional)Color palette / swatch (optional)Message (required)

Your details and optional images are used to respond to your request and plan your commission. This does not subscribe you to marketing or authorize public use of your photos. Privacy & image retention.