Commissioning a Painting: 'La Pietra Miliare'

There is a certain thrill when you are working on a piece and you know where it is going and that it has deep personal meaning for the people who have asked for the painting. Of course it also brings an edge to the work and a certain drive to ensure it is really special for all involved … no pressure …!!!!!

Here is an example of a recent commission.

‘La Pietra Miliare’ (Italian for ‘Milestones’ / significant life moments)

Mixed media on twelve 12 x 12 x 3cm square wooden panels, with 22.5 carat goldleaf, in a white wooden tray frame. Final dimensions: 91 x 78 x 6cm framed.

This was a very special painting which captured 12 ‘milestones’/significant periods in life for the client, through capturing landmarks, locations, and moments from different periods of their life.

It started off with a conversation about the Client liking both the Dublin Bay Wonder painting (Banksy / Colours / Landmarks / Abstraction) and my Squares and move towards square blocks (vibrant colours / abstract). We bounced around a few ideas, and I sketched up and made up 3–4 digital mockups of what we could do. This helped us land on one that we all liked.

We decided to go with a series of key landmarks/locations and ‘blend’ them into/allow them to ‘emerge from’ the abstract and uplifting colours on each of the square blocks.

Working closely with the client, we initially started with over 20 different locations/moments and together landed on 12 that captured the highlights of a life well lived to date …!! It was a real joy painting this, as it felt like a world tour painting the different key locations, from Ireland to London to Germany, New York City, Italy, Australia and a beach bar in Hawaii ... !! We even feature a rugby team from Melbourne ..!!

Here are a few words from the Client on how the process went for them:

'What a terrific journey collaborating on this piece with Niall, an early childhood friend and rugby teammate. Together we crafted something in the abstract that brought together milestone places and events in life’s journey'

See more:  Insert Link to this Artwork

Interested in commissioning a special painting?

If you are interested in commissioning a special painting, please contact me on niallleavy100@gmail.com | +353 (0) 87 2512571, or contact Denise or Deirdre in the Doorway Gallery at denise@thedoorwaygallery.com.

Many thanks.