Hand Painted Portraits of People & Pets
Hand-painted portraits from your photographs in oils, pastels or acrylics, delivered globally & painted in London by the artist Gaius.
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Everything you need to know about commissioning a portrait painted by the artist Gaius in this video
Pastel Portraits
A pastel portrait features a softer aesthetic, with colors beautifully blending through flowing lines and gentle curves. These portraits have a romantic quality and are often preferred. The process of creating a pastel portrait is hands-on, with pastels held directly in my hand, resulting in a sculpted effect achieved through meticulous shading and blending—there are no visible brush strokes in my pastel artworks. Typically more affordable, portraits can be completed in a single sitting without drying time, and they can be varnished the next day. Thanks to modern canvas preparation techniques, traditional canvases are now suitable for various mediums, including pastels. Each pastel painting is varnished before shipping to keep it smudge-free. I exclusively use French Sennelier Soft Oil and various soft chalk pastels renowned for their quality and were favored by artists like Picasso. Degas also worked with pastels, and both artists' stunning works remain as vibrant today as they were many years ago.
Oil Portrait
An oil portrait represents a classic approach to portrait painting. While this medium can encompass various styles, my technique emphasizes soft lines and blended hues. My oil portraits feature vibrant, dynamic colors with enhanced depth, resulting in striking pieces that are designed to last for centuries. My style embodies classic English realism, with minimal visible brush strokes, crafted to be visually pleasing and easily recognizable, rather than provoking the intrigue typical of some contemporary artists. Oil paintings tend to be more costly due to the extended time required for their creation. I may revisit a portrait several times over a few few weeks, allowing the paint to dry between sessions. Although I use modern, quicker-drying oil paints, the completion of a piece will still take a few weeks. If an oil painting is intended as a gift, please allow a month from the order date to ensure timely delivery.
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Acrylic Portraits
I often create pet portraits using acrylic paints. While I appreciate the vibrant dynamism that acrylics can offer, I find that they don't quite achieve the flowing, blended look that aligns with my romantic style. Nonetheless, an acrylic painting can effectively capture the lively spirit of an energetic pet, often better than an oil or pastel portrait. Make sure to compare the different types of portraits before deciding; acrylics are priced between pastels and oils and dry quickly, allowing for delivery within a week.
About Gaius
I graduated with a first-class honors degree from the North Wales School of Art & Design, ranking me among the top 5% of all art school graduates. I earned my degree in 2006 as a mature student at the age of 45. Now at 66, I offer a wealth of experience and a keen insight into capturing the personality of individuals and pets through portraiture. Additionally, I am a photographer I play the saxophone and have a background as a jazz singer, having been actively involved in the creative media industry throughout my life.
How to order a portrait
Portraits are unique to each individual, whether it's a person or a pet, which is why I prefer not to take orders through an online shop. I believe the best way to create a truly exceptional portrait is through direct communication, so please email me or use the contact form. We can discuss what you wish to express in your portrait. I will require a photograph of the portrait subject that can be sent via this website on the contact page. I can help provide information on different photographic styles that may enhance your vision. I can also give you an accurate completion date and will email you upon completion. Pricing varies based on size of the portrait you choose: -
Size 30cm x 25cm on canvas
Pastel: £49
Acrylic: £79
Oil: £95
UK Shipping as of 2025): £10
For shipping outside the UK, please request a shipping quote via email. payments are processed through PayPal, ensuring piece of mind and security. PayPal have their own independent dispute resolution centre for your piece of mind.
Size: 30cm x 40cm on canvas
Pastel: £75
Acrylic: £95
Oil: £145
Shipping (UK as of 2025): £17
For shipping outside the UK, please request a shipping quote via email.
Size: 40cm x 50cm on canvas
Pastel: £125
Acrylic: £135
Oil: £220 Shipping (UK as of 2025): £25
For shipping outside the UK, please request a shipping quote via email.
A deposit of £20 is required for pastel and acrylic portraits, and £50 for oil portraits at the time of order. The remaining balance is due upon completion before shipping. I will send you a watermarked image of the portrait for your approval before the final balance is due and delivery takes place. If you would like your portrait framed, please mention it in your email. For larger sizes, feel free to reach out in your email for quotes postage and delivery times.
For confidential contact and orders, please email. gaius@post.com
Or fill in the contact form Click Here