Clients name within painting

[Patt Legg]

I hope this is in the correct thread under the Technique part. I have noticed some artists adding a client's name within the painting itself. Someone here on the Forum has done just that, I think, but cannot remember who.

This name looks as if it has been block printed usually above the portrait, sometimes below, but in something like an open block.

Just curious if it is a certain style or by request of the client? It seems that whereever I have seen it, it was within a very stylish portrait or political person. I like it but curious how one did that so precisely?

Thanks ahead of time.

[Karin Wells]

I was a sign painter for awhile and I learned to letter. It took me a long time to develop the skill to do this well. It is another separate profession entirely.

The good news is that now anyone with a steady hand, some patience and a computer can do it. Capital letters are the easiest to use. Take the words that you wish to add to your painting and print them in the size you want. Then trace them onto the painting and paint 'em.

It is a good idea if you use tape on the top and bottom so that you get your lines straight. Make sure that the tape is "low tack" and does not stay on your painting too long, because it could damage the paint. Scotch tape is a no-no.

I like to keep my lettering low contrast so that it does not "jump out" at the viewer. I tweaked the sample below a bit so you could see it.

[Karin Wells]

And here is the whole painting...

[Mari DeRuntz]

Karin, beautiful quiet shadows, by the way (something I'm noticing more and more to pay attention to in my own work). I read somewhere that lettering is actually a skill that is taught in traditional painting ateliers - it being an excellent exercise in hand-control and precision.

[Patt Legg]

Karin, that is exactly what I was talking about yet I can barely see it.

I was wondering if the client knows you are doing it , do you tell them or is that your "signature" way in painting? I love it especially that you keep it low key. I wish I had thought of something similar when I did the Firefighter from New York. But it is gone now.

Thanks again.

[Karin Wells]

I was wondering if the client knows you are doing it...

Yes of course. Some people want lettering and some don't. I respect their wishes and have never considered this my "signature."