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What started as a portrait of Cathy Echols' three children years ago has now turned into a special family legacy of having portraits painted of her grandchildren.

Though her children were 13, 15, and 17 at the time when their portraits were painted, Cathy now has portraits of her grandchildren painted as gifts when they are five years old--an age when Cathy says they are still child-like but also starting to look more like they will as adults. Spring and summer are their favorite times of year to have the portraits painted, and watercolor is always their chosen medium. Cathy says the likeness in watercolor of the children’s faces, hands and clothes is unbelievable.

Cathy’s grandchildren live in different cities, but she always works with the same Portraits, Inc. artist since she’s been so happy with the results. Because of how the Portraits, Inc. process works, using the same artist in different cities has been easy.

The setting and chosen attire for the portraits are always important. One was done in Mobile with Cathy’s grandson posing on an old dock, which was perfect for his personality. The dresses that her granddaughters have worn have each been handmade and unique. A portrait of another grandson was done at Cathy’s house in Birmingham, which was very special to her.

While having the portraits of her grandchildren painted is Cathy’s passion, she hopes they will be special to them as well in years to come.  “I’m hoping the grandkids will pass their portraits down to their kids one day and realize what a special gift this was from their grandparents,” she says. “Hopefully they will pass the tradition on as well and continue having portraits painted for their own children and grandchildren.”

For Cathy, the tradition of having portraits painted will certainly continue. One granddaughter recently turned five and will soon be going through the portrait painting process. Cathy also has a son who’s not married yet, so hopefully more grandchildren will be on the way!

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.