Specializing in portraits, cityscapes, still lifes, and large narrative artworks, Matthijs Stam invites you to capture the essence of your vision through a commissioned art piece. Whether it’s a personalized portrait or a captivating city view, experience the magic of commissioned art with us
How does the process of creating such a commissioned painting work?
Firstly, there is an initial conversation to explore the client’s desires and ideas, along with how these can be incorporated into the painting. If necessary, a sketch will be created to illustrate the artist’s plan for executing the work.
In all cases, it’s essential for the client to have a clear understanding of what to expect before the painting commences. The price of the artwork has also been discussed by this point.
Depending on the subject matter, various next steps are possible:
Portrait painting
For a portrait, Matthijs preferably conducts a photoshoot of the individual to be portrayed. From these photos, in close collaboration with the client, materials are chosen as the basis for the painting. If a photoshoot is not feasible, an assessment will be made to determine if existing photographic material is suitable for working with.
Cityscape – Matthijs Stam
For a cityscape (sometimes referred to as a city portrait by Matthijs), when possible, the location is visited and documented. Additionally, a talk with the client will occur regarding their preferences. This may include personal input such as having family members as extras in the cityscape or more general aspects like the season and weather conditions. The client is provided with ample opportunities and, if desired, to contribute to the concept of the artwork.
Narrative Painting – Matthijs Stam
For narrative paintings, the client’s input is initially much more substantial, as they are the suppliers of much of the material to be used. The work is typically composed of a wide range of photographic material provided by the client, which the artist creatively interprets. Stories can also serve as a starting point. Essentially, a kind of film set is envisioned in which the scene unfolds. This may include favorite vacation destinations, cherished memories, or the presence of objects that hold special meaning for the client.
Thanks to years of experience with all these forms of commissioned paintings, Matthijs is highly proficient in providing explanations and guidance on the execution of commissioned work. His existing paintings serve as exemplary illustrations.
This is how Al Freshco operates:
View the video of the creation of two ceiling paintings and three paintings for the Texel Project.
Al Freshco is a collaboration of artists Matthijs Stam and Ingwar Perton. They specialize in large canvas paintings and wall paintings, employing a wide range of techniques: acrylic paint and spray cans, possibly coupled with oil painting techniques from the old masters. This results in a unique style known as ‘the 21st-century frescoes.’ When possible, their paintings aim to create a total experience, suggesting that one is immersed within the artwork. When not feasible, they at least strive for a 3D-like depth effect that completely transforms the space. In their free works, humor and estrangement are combined with playing with historical events. Being in the wrong place at the wrong time can be seen as a recurring theme.