Custom Portraits and Live Illustrations for Your Special Moments
I capture stories, whether it is a cherished memory on canvas or a quick, elegant sketch of your guests at an event. It is all about making you feel seen.
A view from behind the easel as I work on a custom couple's portrait. Using oil paints, I carefully build up the details of the figures and the lush garden background to create a piece they'll cherish.
Here you can see the progress on the couple's portrait after a few sittings. The bright red of her dress is starting to take shape, and I'm blocking in the surrounding colors.
A minimalistic yet elegant watercolor portrait I created during a live illustration event for Louis Vuitton. These quick sketches are a wonderful memento for guests to take home.
Another live watercolor illustration from the Louis Vuitton event. It's always an honor to use my skills to create something special that people can cherish for years to come.
A beautiful watercolor illustration I created, featuring a woman in traditional attire surrounded by vintage-style luggage. This piece blends portraiture with a touch of storytelling.
A simple and expressive black and white watercolor sketch. This style of portraiture is perfect for capturing a mood or a fleeting expression with minimal lines and shading.
About this collection
When you commission an oil portrait, expect a journey. I work in layers, sharing progress updates along the way because I want you to feel connected to the painting as it takes shape. For events, I keep my live illustrations minimal and fast, capturing the vibe of your guests without making them sit for hours.
My work usually falls into two distinct vibes: the slow, meditative process of oil portraiture and the fast, electric energy of live event sketching.
For custom oil portraits, I take my time. Whether it is a romantic couple portrait for your wall or a tribute to a pet, I work on high-quality stretched cotton canvas. I typically provide a couple of progress updates while I am layering the paint, so you know exactly how the piece is evolving. It usually takes about 2 to 3 weeks to ensure the oil dries properly and the details are just right.
On the flip side, there is my live event artistry. This is where I pack my watercolors and sketches for things like brand activations or private parties. I love these environments because it is just me, my brush, and a room full of people. I create quick, elegant watercolor sketches that guests can take home on the spot. It is a brilliant way to add a personal, creative touch to an event without it feeling staged.
Regardless of the medium, my goal is simple: I want to capture the soul of the moment, not just the physical likeness. If you have a memory you want turned into a permanent piece, or if you need an illustrator to bring some magic to your next event, let us chat.
Sanaya Irani
I’m Sanaya. I split my time between writing poetry about heartbreak and getting messy with paint on canvas. Whether I’m capturing your favorite person in oil or sketching guests live at an event, I’m just trying to make art that feels real.
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