The Art of Immortality: Why Commissioning a Portrait on Long Island is More Than Just a Painting
There’s something profoundly human about wanting to be remembered. Not just in photos or stories, but in a way that captures the essence of who you are—your character, your spirit, your story. That’s where commissioning a portrait comes in. And on Long Island, where art and history intertwine, it’s not just a transaction; it’s an experience.
Why a Portrait? It’s Not Just About the Brushstrokes
Personally, I think what makes portraiture so compelling is its ability to transcend time. It’s not just a painting; it’s a legacy. Marianne Della Croce, executive director of the Art League of Long Island, puts it beautifully: ‘To be seen by an artist allows our character to blossom on canvas.’ What many people don’t realize is that posing for a portrait isn’t just about sitting still—it’s about being observed, understood, and celebrated through someone else’s eyes.
Take Kenneth Jackson, a painter and educator, who’s immortalized countless faces, from brides and grooms to family members. He starts with a photo, but what’s fascinating is how he goes beyond the image. ‘If I need to, I’ll come talk to them, take some pictures of my own,’ he says. This raises a deeper question: How much of a portrait is the artist’s interpretation versus the subject’s reality? In my opinion, it’s the dance between the two that makes it magical.
The Cost of Eternity: What You’re Really Paying For
One thing that immediately stands out is the price range for portraits—from Jackson’s $200 to Dave Peikon’s $35,000. But here’s the thing: you’re not just buying a painting. You’re investing in a piece of art that will outlive you. Peikon, who’s painted notables like Nobel Laureate James Watson, only takes commissions if the sitter intrigues him. ‘If it’s an interesting sitter,’ he says. This hints at something broader: the artist’s connection to the subject matters as much as the subject’s desire to be painted.
What this really suggests is that portraiture is a collaboration, not a one-sided transaction. The artist brings their skill, but the subject brings their story. And that story, when told well, becomes timeless.
Old School vs. Modern: The Pose That Defines You
A detail that I find especially interesting is the debate between working from photos versus live sittings. While many artists, like Jackson, rely on photos, others still prefer the old-school approach. Jeff Ommundsen, an artist’s model, emphasizes the importance of comfort during live sessions. ‘Find a very comfortable position, especially if it’s going to be a long pose,’ he advises.
If you take a step back and think about it, the live sitting is a ritual in itself. It’s not just about capturing your likeness; it’s about the time spent, the energy exchanged, and the connection formed. In a world where everything is instant, this slow, deliberate process feels almost revolutionary.
The Broader Picture: Portraiture as a Cultural Mirror
What makes this particularly fascinating is how portraiture reflects the culture of its time. On Long Island, a place steeped in history and artistry, commissioning a portrait isn’t just a personal choice—it’s a nod to tradition. From my perspective, it’s also a way to support local artists, who are, in many ways, the keepers of our collective memory.
But there’s a hidden implication here: as technology advances, will traditional portraiture survive? Or will it evolve into something new, like digital portraits or AI-generated art? Personally, I think the essence of portraiture—the human connection—will endure, even as the tools change.
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Consider It
If you’re on Long Island and considering a portrait, I’d say go for it. But don’t just think of it as a painting. Think of it as a conversation, a collaboration, and a legacy. As Marianne Della Croce said, it’s an opportunity to be celebrated through someone else’s eyes. And in a world that often feels rushed and impersonal, that’s something truly special.
So, will your portrait hang on a wall for generations to come? Maybe. But what’s certain is that the process itself—the sitting, the observing, the creating—will leave an indelible mark on both you and the artist. And isn’t that what art is all about?
