Accurate & detailed portraits are rendered in a complex collage of people, places, passions. Inner images can be evoked through meditations, interviews, personal stories as well as written biographies. Portraits may include a variety of images such as; friends, families, ancestors, symbols, mythological themes, real/imagined animals or landscapes. Portraits can be commissioned for yourself or for loved ones.

For those who visit Carol's studio in Falls Church, VA (a suburb of Washington D. C.), she personally conducts a private interview and/or meditation. Otherwise, interviews can be conducted by phone, email or by writing.

Q. What is the purpose of my interview and/or meditation?

The purpose of the interview and/or meditation is to reveal the personal symbols/ideas/images that may be included in portrait. You will be asked to share stories of meaningful events, memories, passions, associations. If the portrait is for a loved one, you will be asked to share stories about this person and the unique qualities of that person. Your personal stories are important in developing the final imagery for the portrait.

If you chose, inner images can be rendered which reflect your experiences with dreams, meditations, myths or fantasies. Additionally, a meditation session can be arranged if you choose to evoke these inner images through meditation. In any case, your portrait will reflect the essence of important elements of you and your inner world.

For your portrait reference photos will taken using studio lighting. Portraits can also be created from several life sitting if the client is willing to sit for them. Portraits can also be created as a flight of fancy or from the imagination.

Complex montage of mages from be created from sources such as images of childhood, family, friends, animals, teachers, mentors etc, travel photos/slides and personal memorabilia. These portraits are a unique collage of your life.

After all the information/materials are collected, Carol will go into a contemplative/meditative state which allows complex compositions unfold. Unlike a commercial artist who must work quickly under deadlines, Carol spends as much time as is necessary to create a one-of-a-kind piece of fine art that is truly reflective of a client's inner images. When the right images have been revealed, she carefully renders the portrait using pen/ink, charcoal/pencil, pastel, acrylic or oil.

Q. What if I can't visit the studio?

For long distance portraiture, you wil be asked to submit a brief written biography describing your important places, images, symbols, etc. You may submit a reference photograph(s) of youself and other images, symbols or memorabilia etc.to be included in the portrait, or you may to choose to have an portrait created from the inner world of dreams or imagination.

Q. Can a portrait be created as a surprise gift for a relative?

Yes. Portraits can be created for friends or relatives as gifts. However, because of the personal nature of the process, the issues of privacy are discussed before the commission is undertaken. Carol has created portraits for those who are critically ill or deceased and for those she has never met.