The motivation behind this blog was a recent question by somebody about whether framing is included in my prices. After reading this, the answer should be clear.
Simple answer: As long as it takes until it's done. Figure on at least a month for completion of a graphite drawing to make sure you have it on time for that special occasion.
Complicated answer: I typically start each project with several sketches that give me an idea of what I'd like the finished product to look like. The customer's input is important during this stage, and it's easier to make changes before I start the actual drawing!
Once the layout and size is decided, I duplicate the sketch using either a grid or a light table onto the "good" paper. This sketch is done lightly so that some changes can still be done if it proves necessary. (I emphasize the word "some" so that you don't think that a whole re-vamping can be done without starting from scratch!)
Once I begin, I usually draw for several hours at a time before taking a break. Generally I try to do at least 2 drawing sessions per day. Typically, I'll work for 7 hours a day on each drawing. Depending on the complexity of detail in the drawing, it can take anywhere from 1 week for a small, very simple piece, to 3 or 4 weeks for a larger, more complicated piece.
Since I work on weekends when the drawing is compelling me, that works out to anywhere between 50 to 200 hours. Sometimes more.
As an example, my most recent 2-subject drawing took me 4 weeks altogether, from several sketches to establish the layout, right down to the final touch of the pencil. Averaging 5 hours a day for @ 20 days, (I didn't keep meticulous track of my time), means the drawing took a minimum of 100 hours.
The drawing is 14"x17" and I currently charge $200 for that size with a single subject. Add an additional $50 for the second subject. Bear in mind that a portrait with 2 or more subjects, or one with a complex background, is akin to doing a whole new portrait, but on the same paper!
That works out to about $2.50/hour.
Good thing I love what I'm doing! Seeing the final product is often a reward in itself for me.
I used to sketch, but haven't in years. I's like to get back to it one day. Now I do friends dogs in cross stitch I know how time consuming it is to do what you do and I admire your work.
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