Commission a Painting

A commissioned painting is a way of marking something that matters — a person, an animal, or a place. I work primarily in oils, building pieces from photographs into something with weight, atmosphere, and a sense of presence. I paint on traditional primed board and also on paper in various sizes. Paintings are available in a range of sizes on board or paper, with 300gsm archival oil paper providing the most affordable entry point at $350 for an unframed piece.

I take on a limited number of commissions at a time.

  • Pet portraits

  • Houses and buildings

  • Landscapes and places

  • Portraits

  • Illustration projects

If you’re unsure, feel free to ask.

Process

  • We start with a short conversation

  • You send through reference images

  • I develop a composition for approval

  • The painting is built in layers over several days or weeks depending on size and complexity.

Most commissions take 2–4 weeks, plus drying time.

Practical details

  • Based in Melbourne, working across Australia and internationally

  • Framing can be arranged

  • A deposit is required to begin

A note on working together

I’ve worked with individuals, publishers, and small businesses across a range of projects. I aim to keep the process straightforward and considered, and to be clear about timing and cost from the outset.

Start a commission

If you have something in mind, send it through.

A little slice of France for home

A framed painting of a golden retriever dog hangs on a textured white wall. There is a blue vase and a wooden bowl with a small wooden object on a white shelf below the painting.

Memorial for a friend

See gallery below for examples and process.

Process of a small A5 commission on paper

  • I highly recommend Warren as an illustrator, designer, and collaborator. As an art director, I had the pleasure of working with him on the picture book The Day of Stolen Bicycles. Warren’s technical skill and deep knowledge of both illustration and design made the process not only efficient but deeply meaningful. His research for the topic goes beyond expectations, and he is exceptionally reliable, always delivering high-quality work on schedule.

    —Kim Pfeffer, Art Director at Amicus Ink

  • Warren’s creative sensibility has been invaluable. Through a deep understanding of our mission, his design has clarified complex ideas, giving our materials coherence, elegance, and a strong intellectual presence. He has integrated an amazing array of concepts from science, art, illustration and design that inform his work.

    Peter Ellerton, Director of The Centre for Critical and Creative thinking

Frequently Asked Questions