Custom Hand-Painted Oil and Acrylic Portraits
I create custom portraits that go beyond just capturing a face. Trained at the Sir J.J. School of Art, I focus on the character, expression, and personality behind every subject, whether from a photograph or a live sitting.
This video shows the process of creating a commissioned oil portrait of a couple. I can work from high-quality photographs to create a detailed and personal piece of art that celebrates your relationships.
Titled "रापण," this is an oil on canvas portrait painted from a live sitting. The goal was to capture a quiet, everyday moment of reading and contemplation.
A portrait sketch in oil, focusing on the play of light and shadow on the face. This kind of study is essential for building form and character in a commissioned portrait.
An oil portrait study done on mount board. I pay close attention to getting the likeness just right, ensuring the final commissioned piece truly reflects the person.
An oil portrait titled "मामा." This was a practice piece that helped me refine my technique for capturing personality with thick, expressive oil paint.
Another oil portrait sketch where I explored using a bold blue shirt to contrast with the warm skin tones. These studies are part of my continuous practice.
A close-up of an oil portrait, showing the detail and brushwork involved. Whether from a photo or live sitting, I aim for this level of realism and character.
This oil on board portrait, "मामा," demonstrates my direct approach to painting, building up layers of colour to create a lifelike and textured image.
A finished oil portrait against a vibrant red background. The choice of background colour is something we can discuss to make your commissioned piece unique.
A detailed oil portrait study. Capturing the subtle expression and the way light reflects off glasses is a challenge I enjoy in portraiture.
About Commissioned Portraits: Capturing Your Story
Whether you want a portrait from a high-quality photograph or a live sitting in Mumbai, the process starts with a conversation about what you want to capture. I work with professional-grade oil paints on archival canvas, focusing on accurate anatomy and expressive brushwork. If you choose a live sitting, we can arrange the lighting and posture to ensure the final piece feels personal and true to life.
Portraiture is not just about copying a photo; it is about observation. My training at the Sir J.J. School of Art taught me to look for the nuances—the way light hits a cheekbone, the specific angle of a gaze, or the subtle texture of clothing.
The Process
Most commissions begin by selecting a reference. If you have a clear, high-resolution photograph, I can work from that to create a detailed oil portrait. However, live sittings are where the energy of the subject truly comes through. In a live session, I spend time observing the subject to capture their natural expressions rather than a static pose.
Materials and Durability
I use professional-grade oil paints because they allow for the depth and texture I prefer. Each piece is painted on archival-quality canvas or mount board, ensuring the work stands the test of time.
- Oil Paintings: Best for longevity, rich colour, and building texture (impasto).
- Acrylics: A great alternative if you want a quicker turnaround with a contemporary, matte finish.
Every commission includes a protective retouch varnish and a signed authenticity certificate. Since these are original artworks, they are an investment for your home or a gift for a loved one. Once the painting is finished, I ensure it is carefully mounted or shipped to prevent any damage, so it arrives ready to be framed and displayed.
Sanket Thorat
I am Sanket, an artist from Mumbai with a deep foundation from the Sir J.J. School of Art. For me, portraiture is about discovery—finding the personality behind the face and putting it on canvas with honest, bold brushstrokes.
Looking for something else?
You can explore my other art services or search for specific styles.
More from Fine Art & Commissioned Paintings by Sanket Thorat