The ache and sorrow of losing a loved one, whether it is a relative, friend, or a pet, can be overwhelming.
My bespoke service is a unique and meaningful way of commemorating our loved and lost, by using a small amount of the cremation ashes blended with paint; my purpose is to give a beautiful, lasting memorial that can be a treasured heirloom for generations.
Interpreting someone else’s feelings, thoughts and memories into works of art is such a privileged position to be in; it is one of total trust and respect and of which I greatly value.
As you can see from other paintings on my website, my styles and experience are broad; I am a deep thinking, sensitive artist, inspired and influenced by art that has depth and meaning. This style of work is dedicated to creating Fine Art bespoke paintings.
The private commissioned artworks are done in various genres from landscapes, abstracts and figurative; some examples from previous clients can be seen on the gallery page and some of which my customers assist with in my studio. (Thank you to the customers who’ve allowed me to put their paintings on my website.)
My customers say that it is very comforting to live with beautiful, unique paintings with the feeling of knowing their loved ones are still with them.
F.A.Q.
Why have a painting done using one's cremated remains?
Bereavement can be overwhelming. LIA enables your memories of your loved one to remain with you in a sensitive and unique way. My customers’ feedback is only ever positive; they say that it is extremely comforting to live with beautiful paintings knowing their loved ones are still with them.
Who uses LIA’s service?
Anyone who truly values living with a painting with their loved one’s ashes. Work is often generated by word of mouth/recommendation; by funeral directors; pet funeral crematoriums and social media; my aim is to honour and celebrate life in a respectful and meaningful manner at all times
How do you know what to paint?
I will speak to you on the phone and/or by email or you can visit me in my studio by appointment so I can learn more about your loved one; my painting will be my interpretation based upon what I learn from you; your input is invaluable.
What genre / style do you paint?
My skills are broad; I find my customers appreciate land/seascapes, portraits, abstracts, figurative, their pets and floral paintings which are always inspired by dialogue with you.
What will the painting’s finished surface be like?
Ashes have a similar feel to gritty sand. When paint is added to the ashes, this does not alter the colours, it will merely add texture to the artwork. I always seal with a quality glaze varnish for longevity.
Do you paint using pet ashes?
Yes. LIA provides its service for pets and humans alike.
What do you paint on?
Your painting will be on box canvas and or board, not paper for LIA work.
Will you frame?
I offer you a non-framed or framed arrangement depending on what you specify in our conversation. A good framer will know how to frame your bespoke work.
How do I know you don’t mix up the client’s ashes?
LIA is extremely vigilant about security and registering clients’ details. Each client is given a unique reference number on my spreadsheet to ensure that all correspondence relates only to you and your loved one’s ashes to avoid any confusion and to ensure your peace of mind. I will only ever work on one painting at a time.
Will you use all the ashes sent to you or that are brought to the studio?
This depends on the development and aesthetics of the painting. Any unused ashes will be respectfully returned.
Do you wear gloves?
Gloves are worn while working on LIA paintings out of respect and also for health and safety reasons.
Do you sign the painting?
Yes, I always discreetly sign a very small Lindi at the bottom of my paintings.
What sizes of painting are available, and at what cost?
My sizes vary from 30 x 30cm to 2m²; this decision usually depends upon the customer’s requirements, budget, etc., and this is why I prefer customers to get in touch directly regarding their commissioned work, rather than offering specifics. I offer choice.
Can I be there to watch and paint with you?
Of course, however, only at a stage that is relevant when the ashes will be used, so I would invite you to do this at the appropriate time. I close my studio doors for privacy when working on your painting/s as there are sometimes tears.
How much is the delivery / shipping cost?
I pride myself on communicating with customers at all times, offering very careful packaging of goods and have never had any damages or complaints about the quality of my work.
Delivery costs and postage will be discussed with individual customers, depending on the size and weight of each painting. I aim to dispatch the artwork after receipt of payment is cleared; I use a reputable art courier to transport your painting if you are a distance away and not local to pick up firsthand. If this is the case, LIA will email you on the day of posting and track the goods online.
Late delivery will not constitute a breach of contract. Cost always depends upon individual commissions.