A portrait of a home is much more than paint on a canvas. It’s a collection of happy memories, little moments, big celebrations and the love of family and friends. And while it is the task of the portrait artist to capture the physical structure of the house - the slant of the roofline, the light reflecting off the dormer windows, the curve of the stone walkway - it is the artist’s ability to bring out the character and personality of the home that will enable viewers  to bring out the character and personality of the home that will enable viewers to bring out the character and personality of the home that will enable viewers to make the connection to the hearts and minds of the occupants. This is what makes a great home portrait and it is what I strive for in all my works.

How I begin a house portrait    

Composition is my first and most crucial decision. I look for dynamic angles to create a powerful composition that brings focus to the entrance of the home. I believe the front door is the welcoming heart of a home and I often use devices such as dappled sunlight and shadow to lead the viewer’s eye into the home. Blooms and flowers can also guide the eye and add the personality that can only be seen in season. I will always begin a commission with a discussion of different compositional choices before choosing one that will bring out the warmth and character of the home.

My  painting process

I paint on an unstretched canvas. This technique allows me to adjust the composition along the way. Initially, I sketch the house and surrounding gardens in pencil, focusing on perspective and surrounding details. My goal is to highlight the home’s best features before I even pick up a brush. As I begin to paint, I look to involve my clients in the process. I will sit at my French easel and encourage homeowners to look over my shoulder, discuss the work and watch as the painting comes to life. It can be a powerful experience for them as they begin to see the character of the home emerge on canvas. And while the plein air style of portraiture is my preferred way to work, I have honed my photographic skills to capture reference shots of homes should I need to work indoors.

My experience

I was raised among the brush and watercolor palettes of  my father’s art studio. My dad,Ken Dallison is a famous  illustrator who lives in the Toronto area who schooled me in the basics of illustration, composition, light, shadow and form and then let me choose my artistic path. I found  that painting was my calling and I was able to make a living from it even before I attended the Ontario College of Art and Design. Besides creating house portraits, I frequently paint landscapes and do portraiture using an ancient medium called encaustic, which combines beeswax and pigment to create a unique texture and luminosity.

My commitment

While I have received most of my commissions through word of mouth, I created this website at the urging of my clients as a way to showcase my work. If you like some of what you see, and would be interested in a house portrait consultation and a free quote, please contact me at the link below. I can ensure you that you will be completely satisfied.

                           

                             Peter Dallison * New Jersey * USA *                                  

                                 email peter@peterdallison.com