I am Marion Dutton, an Alexander Certified Art Instructor and a portrait and pet portrait artist, and I can teach YOU how to oil paint! 

Art Classes
You can learn to paint beautiful seascapes, breathtaking landscapes and spectacular florals and I will show you how with step by step demonstrations whilst you follow along on your own canvas and at your own pace.  Even if you are a complete beginner - you will be amazed at the hidden artist within.
I run regular half day classes, in my private studio in Egerton, Bolton, Lancashire and teach students of all ages and abilities to create stunning paintings completed from start to finish in just a few short hours

Portrait & Pet Portrait Courses
As well as my half day workshops, I also offer more intensive 6 week course for portraits and pet portraiture.  If you have ever wanted to paint portraits or simply paint your beloved pet, all you need for one of these courses is a good clear photograph.  (classes typically 3 hours long over 6 weeks)

Commission A Portrait or Pet Portrait

If you would like to commission me to paint a portrait or pet portrait (or any subject for that matter!) see the HOW TO COMMISSION A PORTRAIT or PET PORTRAIT tab at the slider bar on the right.

How To Commission a Portrait or Pet Portrait

If you are looking to commission a portrait of a family member or loved one, or to commission PET portrait, then you have come to the right place. If you have ever struggled to find the perfect present for a friend or family member who appears to have everything, a portrait could be the answer. Portraits can be commissioned in oils, acrylic or pencil.

It is very simple to commission your own unique portrait, of a loved one or of your pet, simply complete the CONTACT me form with your portrait enquiry and leave me your telephone number or email.  I will then contact you via phone or email to discuss your requirements further (many of my clients prefer I contact them via email as the commission is often a surprise gift for a loved one).    I work from photographs - so once first contact has been made I will simply ask you to email your chosen photo to me (or this can be posted and I promise to return all photos), we can then discuss your background requirements (these do not have to match your photograph, so if you had your dog/cat in a great pose but would like a better background that can be done too)  or you can simply opt for a nice soft blended background, it really is up to you.

Once we have agreed on the portrait details and background etc, I will email you with a final quotation for the complete portrait and I will require a 50% deposit to begin the work (this covers me for all materials in advance)  A typical oil portrait will take around 8 weeks but can be longer during busy periods such as Christmas. (I use special mediums to speed up the drying time of the oil paints).  To get a general idea of the price of your portrait see my price guide.

Once I have completed your portrait I will emai you with a final scan of the painting for your approval, and any small adjustments are made to your portrait.  If you are happy with your portrait the remaining 50% will be due for payment.  Upon receipt of the final payment I will post your painting out, ensuring that it is carefully packaged.  Note I do not frame the paintings, and the postage & packaging will be an additional cost. 

GUARANTEE - I offer a 100% guarantee - in the unlikely event you are not entirely happy with the final scan of your painting - your deposit will be refunded in full and I will keep the final painting.

Please browse my galleries to see examples of previous commissions, including the Pet Portrait for the Duchess of Northumberland. Should you wish to commission your own portrait, do not hesitate to contact me. I will return your email as quickly as possible. Please note I begin taking orders from September for Christmas commissions, and would strongly advise that you order your portrait early if you require it for a special Christmas pressent.  If you do leave it too late for your portrait to be completed in time for Christmas then I can offer GIFT VOUCHER instead.

COMMISSION OTHER PAINTINGS FROM PHOTOS

If you have taken a fabulous photograph, weather it is of a favourite place, house, boat,  car, equestrian, birds or wildlife photo - I can be commissioned to paint it (there really isnt much I cannot paint, and I will always be upfront if I think the photo is unsuitable) - please complete the CONTACT ME form and we can discuss your requirements. 

The wet on wet oil painting is a fascinating technique and a wonderful introduction into the magic world of oil painting. It was made famous by William (Bill) Alexander and his TV Series “The Magic of Oil Painting,” and one of Bill’s famous students, Bob Ross and his hugely popular TV Series “The Joy of Oil Painting”. Both Bill and Bob could produce entire landscapes and seascapes in less than half an hour!