FAQ

​                                                Captured on CanvasLive Event Artist New York


What is Live Event Painting?

Live Event Painting is a form of art and entertainment for your special event or wedding, where an artist translates the evening as it's happening onto a canvas, capturing moments in time and people in motion in a completely unique way.


How early do you need to arrive to begin painting? 

Ideally I request to arrive 3-4 hours before the start time of the event so that I can have ample time for set up and painting the background. 


Some venues will only allow me to arrive an hour or two before the start time of the event- that's okay too! I need an hour minimum, as set up takes only about 30 minutes. I'm very used to painting quickly and can continue to work on the background throughout the event or back in my art studio.


How much space do you need at the venue?

I don't take up too much room and have worked in some very tight spaces. I request about a 5 to 6 foot diameter of space, with access to an outlet for my overhead lamp.


How late do you stay?

I normally stay for the full length of a 4 hour reception, not including arriving a few hours early to paint the background.


Does it bother you when people watch you paint?

Not at all! I quite enjoy it and encourage guests to come see me periodically throughout the night so that they can see how the painting gradually transforms.


What kind of paint and materials do you use?

I use high quality acrylic paints and canvas, with a "plein air" style wooden easel and small table with a white tablecloth. 


What is the difference between oil and acrylic paint?

The main practical difference is drying time: Oils can stay wet for weeks, whereas Acrylics dry in about 15 minutes, allowing for the use of many layers in live painting. Acrylics are also non-toxic and water-based, which allows for a quick and easy clean up.


Can you frame my painting?

Unfortunately, due to the high volume of events I do per year, I am unable to custom frame paintings. Paintings come ready to be hung on the wall frameless for a more contemporary look.


I would suggest keeping the painting away from an intense direct sunlight for preservation, or talk to your local framer to see their options on preserving the paitning through framing.


Do you only paint weddings?

Nope! I paint all kinds of events of all different sizes, from small, intimate gatherings to grand ballrooms with 500+ guests! Other events I have painted include bat mitzvahs, bar mitzvahs, sweet sixteens, birthday parties, anniversary parties, corporate events, holiday parties, fundraisers, and auctions.


Do you travel?

Yes! In fact, I travel frequently! I am based out of Long Island, New York and charge a travel fee outside of Nassau County.


For venues within driving distance, I charge a travel fee based on mileage, tolls, and if I will need a hotel for the night.

For venues that require a flight, I charged a travel fee based on airfare, baggage fees, car rental, hotel fees, shipping fees, and number of travel days. 


What do you require to hold my date?

Due to the high volume of inquiries I receive every day, I am unable to pencil in clients or put dates on a "soft hold", but you can officially reserve your date with a 50% deposit and signed contract. I recommend electronic payment for it's speed and convenience!  


How far in advance do I need to reserve?

As soon as possible, especially for a Saturday wedding between May-October!! On average, I receive inquries 1-1.5 years in advance, but it is often hard to predict when a date will get reserved.  Sometimes a client may book a date 2.5 years in advance or sometimes a date may stay open until the very last minute!


You never know, so I always recommend reaching out to me to make sure I'm available, and if it's something you know you want at your wedding, reserve right away.


What form of payment do you accept?

I accept cash, check, Venmo, Paypal, or credit. Credit is subject to an additional 3% charge.