I am looking to give my godfather a portrait as a thankyou for being a marvellous friend all through my childhood. Problem is, I don't know whether to give a protrait of him or me! I have move abroad now, and will not see him for again for some time.
In my experience as a Portrait Artist, I have found that people do not normally like surprise portraits of themselves. What you need to do is look for clues. Does he have photographs of himself display in his home? If he doesn’t then it is reasonable to assume that he would not want a portrait either. What does he have displayed: photographs of grandchildren, pets, etc? If you want to touch his heart with a portrait, make sure it is of the person/thing he loves most.
Thanks John for wise words... he doesn't have any grandchildren or pets, but he is a very keen gardener having won many prizes... but a picture of a prize marrow??!
Would he appreciate a portrait of his house or garden? Or perhaps you could simply commission a painting of something that would remind him of you. For your Godfather perhaps the church in which you were christened? Is there a memory you both share that you want to keep alive...a day trip somewhere..a theatre visit? I don't think a portrait has to have the person in it...but it may capture a memory or feeling. I hope these suggestions help!
picture as gift for my godfather
Posted - 18 July 2005 : 19:06:56
