The Art Of Michael Geraghty

 
   
 

How  To Commission An Original Painting

As a companion to this page, please also read: How I Make A Picture

 

- A Painting For You - A Timeless Treasure

For their pride of ownership, depth of color, translucent subtleties, uniqueness and lasting value, an original painting is one of the best gifts you can bestow on yourself or someone else.

Michelangelo said,  "A painting is the greatest of all the Arts.  It's unlike a favorite book which gets read and shelved away.  Musical and acting performance, no matter how spectacular, end in short order.  A painting is the most valuable of all the Arts for two reasons:  We're a visual species.  We love visual beauty and a painting, hanging in prominence, 'gives' every moment of every day.  It's a timeless treasure."

Like Michelangelo, I'm a "narrative" or "representational" artist.  I'm well-educated and well practiced at my craft.  I've been a full-time professional since 1988.  There isn't a person, place or thing I can't paint, and it would be an honor to paint for you.  Moreover, I'm confident I could give you the painting you envision.  I'm just as comfortable with human portraiture as I am with animal depictions.  And I'm equally at ease with landscape painting or architectural illustration.

Unlike many artists, when you commission me, you're welcome to dictate virtually all aspects of the painting.  You'll not only approve the composition in advance, you can determine the size as well as the paint medium -- oils, acrylics, or watercolor -- if you so choose.   Along the way, where necessary, I'll guide you with professional recommendations.

Among others, my paintings hang in the collections of such famous people as singer David Cassidy of the hit TV show, "The Partridge Family;"  two-time Super Bowl-winning coach Bill Parcells, CNN TV talk show host Larry King;  and Hall of Fame jockey and Seabiscuit movie actor Gary Stevens.

My Style

I strive for total accuracy, but not photo realism.  My originals always retain a traditional, painterly look.  Throughout my career, it's a style that's been very well received.   At completion, you'll be surprised at how it becomes the conversational piece of your collection.  For some reason, people are drawn to the history, excitement and romance of the Thoroughbred racing game.

My Philosophy

In a sense, I'm an historian with a paintbrush.  I believe we all have moments in life we wish we could go back to.  In your painting, I'll try to recapture that cherished memory for you.

Your moment is your choice.  It could be your family gathered in a paddock as your horse is being saddled, or your horse in your silks in the post parade.  Or perhaps you'd prefer a traditional pose of your favorite horse at pasture -- or perhaps the dramatic finish of a race you won!  Or you may simply want the sun rising over Saratoga or your daughter with her show horse.  Compositions are limited only by your desires and imagination.

To start, the process is easy.  Simply explain by phone or e-mail what you have in mind, and I'll send you an actual-size, detailed pencil sketch of the composition.   An original painting requires a minimum of 2 months to complete.  My price falls between $8,000 - $15,000, depending upon overall size and complexity of detail.

To learn more about my technical procedures: How I Make A Picture