Stylized Painted Canvases

Honestly I got the idea to "paint" the images thanks to a Groupon Deal. They ran a canvas special that was too good to pass up, though I had never considered printing anything on canvas. My wife had taken a picture of the Golden Gate Bridge that she was really proud of so I had the photo already. I was editing some tourists out of the photo, playing with shadows and contrast and was thinking about the texture of the canvas. Wouldn't that mess with the clarity of the photo? Why is a canvas more desirable than a framed print? Then it hit me. I had recently been experimenting with paint filters in Photoshop so for fun I tried some layers and loved it, at least on my computer screen. I wasn't sure how it would look in person but it was worth the risk at that price. Turned out great, way better than I had hoped. The texture of the canvas really helps sell the painted style. I started offering a dozen of them anytime Groupon offered them. They were quickly claimed. I've gotten faster and better at the whole process. I love when parents send me pictures of happy kids with the canvases. Because canvas companies are always competing with sales, I don't have to wait for Groupon like before, now I offer them all the time.

I always try to fill the canvas space as much as possible, a big bold work of art in your home. The background stuff gets a little extra blur which makes the faux bristle strokes stand out. Folds in clothing, helmets and face masks are all really convincing in this style.

Hair is so cool when "painted", and grass can look like little individual strokes. It's a mix of keeping details and letting stuff turn to shapes. People will see it, get drawn in closer and ask you if it's a painting ...but don't them tell until after their third "awesome".

I charge $125 for a 16X20. Small price bumps for bigger. I think 16x20 is the perfect size for a kid's room, hallway, or office. Bigger if you plan to put it up in a foyer or living room wall. If you supply the photo or it is from an already paid Package, it is only $100.