There are as many options for the setting and background of a portrait as there are subjects themselves. Depending on the subject, where the finished portrait will hang and the reason for the portrait, it may be more appropriate for the portrait to be set indoors, outdoors, with an elaborate or a simpler background.
There are no right or wrong choices, but here are some factors to consider that Portraits, Inc. artists and associates have found to be helpful.
- Portraits that are set in the outdoors often mean brighter light and more color. For this reason, many portraits of children are painted outdoors, but adults often choose to be outside as well, especially if going for a more casual tone to the portrait.
- Paintings of corporate executives, government officials and university presidents are almost always painted in an indoor setting because the clients expect a more classical and official look to the finished portrait.
- Because the main focus of a portrait should be on one person or multiple people’s faces, all other elements in the painting are subordinate. However, it is often important to set the context of the person’s life, career or status by including law books, a state seal, a university building or the interior of a living room in the background of the portrait.
- When the portrait includes more than one person, it can be very helpful to have a more detailed background. This helps the artist establish a sense of scale in the proportions of the figures and find a way for them to interact with each other. For example, a mother may be sitting on a sofa with her younger children while the oldest child stands by her side. Or two physicians might be posed as if they were working together in a laboratory.
- Although ideas may change and evolve, it is important for the client, artist and associate to have conversations about the setting, background and pose as an initial part of the portrait process.
Portraits, Inc. was founded in 1942 in New York on Park Avenue. Over its 70-year history, Portraits, Inc. has carefully assembled a select group of the world’s foremost portrait artists offering a range of styles and prices. Recognized as the industry leader, Portraits, Inc. provides expert guidance for discerning clients interested in commissioning fine art portraits.