NH fine artist Carol Lake enjoys an international reputation for her American Contemporary Impressionism in oils, sculpture, and glass.
FAQS
How does it work? I meet with the bride and groom (or, alternatively, the painting can be a thoughtful gift from friends or family) to determine what the painting will depict, and whom. I will set up at the venue two to three hours ahead of time in order to lay in the architectural or landscape details and will remain on-site for several more hours. And yes, I love to answer guests' questions, and encourage them to watch the "painterly" process! It's an added element of live entertainment on your special day!
How much does it cost? The price for a live painting usually ranges from $3000 to $7000. The price depends on the size of the painting you would like, if you prefer loose, impressionistic work or tighter details, how many individuals to be included in the work, the date and time of your event, and the location of your venue. Prices may occasionally be lower than this at certain days or times of the year which are less busy, or if you are very close to my studio location. They may be higher if I am required for more than one day, and if air travel or hotel stays are needed to complete your painting. Because an impressionistic live painting usually takes me between 4-6 hours to paint, if I need to drive over 50 miles I may require an overnight stay, depending on the time of day. Please contact me with the date, time, and location of your event and venue, and I will give you full booking details and a quote. If you are undecided, I am happy to chat with you if you are just interested and would like to know more, want to check my availability, or would like a rough estimate.
How much space do you need to set up? About 5’ x 7’. I bring my own equipment and don’t need extra tables, chairs or lighting. So you don’t have to worry about another to-do on an already busy day. I am happy to place my easel on a clean drop cloth if requested and am very conscious of keeping my area tidy. I am also able to provide an insurance rider for the venue if needed. A small table at the event is always appreciated.
How long does it take? Depending on the size of the painting and the details required, I aim to finish the work at the event itself if you prefer a looser, impressionistic style, or, alternatively, in my studio if you would like more details. Occasionally it will take longer to complete the artwork, depending on details requested and other work being completed in the studio. Please note there will be an additional charge for shipping the artwork if I bring it back to the studio for refining. If I do bring the artwork to the studio, you can also request professional photography of the artwork so that you may use the image on notecards or wherever you please!
How do I book you? I require a 50% deposit and a signed contract to secure your painting. Full payment for the painting is due within 2 weeks of the event.
How far in advance do I need to contact you? As soon as possible! Several months to a year out is best, especially for destination weddings. There's only one of me, and once I'm booked for a date, I'm booked!
Do you travel? Yes! I just returned from an artist-in-residence program in Tuscany, so yes! I will travel anywhere in the world.
Where are you located? My studio is based in NH.
What else do you paint? I paint wedding bouquets, bridal shoes, and dresses - even the groom's outfit! I'm working on putting together a "package" for wedding events, look for more information soon! Of course, as a professional artist, I also paint and sculpt traditional portraits. You can view my studio work here.
Do you paint from photos? Wedding or special event already happened? I also create paintings (at a substantial discount) from events that have already occurred and can easily work from photographs, highlighting the best parts of the photo and adding to or even removing other aspects.