By Aaron Beane
One of the inherent draws to portraiture is that people are at the core of the practice. For 80 years, Portraits, Inc. has connected families and institutions with today’s foremost portrait artists. These artists tell peoples’ stories through the power of fine art portraiture. One of the most impactful ways to honor their legacies is through a group portrait.
Portrait by Portraits, Inc. Exclusive Artist Dawn Whitelaw
While a portrait of an individual is extremely effective in devoting attention to a single life of significance, a group portrait displays the convergence of many lives. These portraits of colleagues, families, and other communities seek to capture the bonds between the beautiful myriad of personalities and experiences. The effect that our personal and professional relationships have on us is immeasurable.
When approaching the commission process for a group portrait, several factors should be considered beyond the typical portrait. A standard rule of thumb is that many of the necessary determinations (wardrobe, location, size, etc.), must be understood as now relating between multiple points. The complexity can complicate some of your decisions, but, in the right hands, magic is sure to be made. One of the most vital considerations that assists in streamlining this process is selecting the best expert to produce your desired masterpiece. Just as you would look for an artist who stylistically fits your preference, choosing an artist with examples of multi-figure portraits is also crucial. The artist should be someone who can intentionally compose their figures in relation to one another and their surroundings. It is also important to note that, while it varies between artist and commission, a percentage of the base cost is added for each additional figure in a portrait.
Portrait by Portraits, Inc. Exclusive Artist Carol Baxter Kirby
Another valuable consideration when approaching a multi-figure portrait is personality. Artists aim to set the mood through pose, color, texture, and other tools. However, these considerations multiply in the context of a group. The characteristics of each subject must be weighed against one another. The outfit, location, and palette are no longer choices with an individual in mind. Instead, they must reflect the collective vision. These are decisions that our associates and artists are trained and experienced in facilitating. 
Completed portrait (top) and Portraits, Inc. Master Artist Igor V. Babailov performing touch-ups to the portrait with two of its 11 subjects in his studio (bottom)
A great example of a successful group portrait is the recent commission seen above. This portrait was completed by Portraits, Inc. Master Artist Igor V. Babailov, with the assistance of Nashville Sales Associate Mary Overstreet. When discussing how to approach such commissions, Overstreet says, “In choosing an artist, the element of trust is vital. The client needs to trust the "knowledge" of the associate and the "ability" of the artist.” The nearly life-sized portrait features 11 full figures. A portrait of this scale and intricacy is quite the undertaking. To ensure the best results, Babailov had a series of live sittings with the subjects. He believes that “...the important part in this process is to draw exclusively from life because this is the only way to understand a person’s unique likeness and individuality, and to get the feel of who they are in real life.” This is the ultimate goal of portraiture, that one would be seen and celebrated – whether alone or surrounded by those they know and love.
A group portrait is one of many creative approaches to portraiture. Through the hard work of our artists and associates, we ensure a seamless and successful portrait commission experience, guaranteeing fine art portraits that serve as timeless legacies for generations to enjoy. Through the unmistakable charm of a group portrait, these generations will see themselves reflected in the image – treasured stories of times past and those still yet to be told.
To learn more contact us: call 1.800.476.1223 or e-mail us .
Portraits, Inc. was founded in 1942 in New York on Park Avenue. Over its 80-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.