PORTRAITS | COMMISSIONS

Contemporary artist Elizabeth R. Whelan paints our world in all its complexity, with a focus on portraiture. Working from her studio on the island of Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts, Whelan creates distinctive fine art portraits that will last generations.

Contact Elizabeth Whelan

Elizabeth R. Whelan: The Value of a Portrait

Seeing art in person can be a life-changing experience, both humbling and inspiring.

And in any art museum, portraits are everywhere: in every style, color, and size, from every country and created by every type of artist.

In a portrait's brushstrokes we find a path connecting us to another human on a timeless level.

Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, van Gogh and Rembrandt's many self-portraits, these are just a few of the well-known portraits that have come down to us through the ages. Their popularity is testimony to the power and value of capturing personality, character, and aspect, on canvas.

Oil paint captures the living qualities of the human face and body like no other medium. Skillfully handled, the portrait transcends technique and draws the viewer in, and a single artist creates a treasure for us all.

The Painting Commission Process

Commissioning a portrait or other painting is a significant moment, and Elizabeth Whelan makes the process straightforward and enjoyable.

Portrait Process

Commissioning and sitting for a portrait is an exciting and unique experience.

Learn about the portrait process

Portrait Fees

A guide to portrait fees, which are based on factors including the size and complexity of the painting.

View some typical portrait fees

View portraits

Other Commissions

Elizabeth Whelan also paints nautical and coastal subjects, landscapes, still life, as well as animals.

Learn about commissioning a painting

Visit the artist's studio

Working from her studio on Martha's Vineyard, Elizabeth paints and draws daily. Art is the foundation of her life.

The studio on Chappaquiddick Island

What her clients say:

Your talent and love and generosity make the painting shine and we are very grateful that you hold us gently at a moment in our lives and in a place that we all love dearly.

portrait painting testimonial elizabeth whelan

Mother of family Martha's Vineyard

Thank you so much...We think it looks amazing and beautiful and really captures [our retiring CEO].

US luxury jewelry company New York City

The portrait of [father] exceeds our expectations. You must hear this from all your happy clients. Each day we enjoy another aspect of it.

Family of portrait subject Martha's Vineyard

My portrait was unveiled this a.m. You are a true genius and master! ...Thank you again for all you did and because of you, it was truly painless.

Retired doctor, surgeon New York City

Travel to your location, lodging, shipping, and framing the painting, are generally not included in the portrait fee.

However, Elizabeth's travel to sittings on the island of Martha's Vineyard is free, as is delivery of the completed portrait in person to a Martha's Vineyard--or nearby--location.

Also, Elizabeth is happy to help you choose a frame, and has a number of professional framers in her network who can meet your framing needs.