COMMISSION A PORTRAIT ARTIST
Portrait Artists Minnesota
9 Award-Winning Portrait Artists.
Exquisite Oil Portrait Paintings from Your Photos.
Discover the Finest Portrait Artists Covering Minnesota
In an age where digital images come and go, a hand-painted portrait remains a cherished way to capture the essence of a person, place, or moment. Here in Minnesota—a land of lakes, quiet strength, and creative spirit—some of the most gifted portrait artists in the country call this place home. And with The Portrait Agency, discovering and commissioning the right artist is not just simple—it’s inspired.
Whether you’re envisioning a classically styled oil painting steeped in tradition, a fresh take on modern portraiture, or something deeply personal, Minnesota’s portrait artists bring a rare blend of craftsmanship, heart, and northern soul to every canvas.
About The Portrait Agency
The Portrait Agency is more than a business—it’s a trusted circle of master artists dedicated to the timeless art of portraiture. For decades, they’ve matched clients with artists whose talents align with the vision behind each commission.
Representing many of Minnesota’s most accomplished portrait artists, The Portrait Agency ensures every project—whether it’s a commemorative portrait or a creative exploration—is handled with care, integrity, and extraordinary attention to detail.
Why Choose Portrait Artists in Minnesota?
Minnesota has long been a wellspring of artistic talent. With its majestic landscapes and deeply rooted traditions, this state has shaped artists who see beyond the surface and into the spirit of their subjects. Whether you seek a portrait of a beloved family member, a mentor, or a cherished pet, Minnesota’s artists are known for bringing life, legacy, and character into focus.
From the bustling Twin Cities to the serene North Shore, from local galleries to remote studios nestled among the pines, Minnesota artists bring a distinct voice to the national art scene—and a warmth that clients across the country recognize and value.
The Portrait Commission Process
Working with The Portrait Agency, or with one of the highly recommended portrait artists in Minnesota, is a collaborative journey—one that blends tradition with intuition. Here’s how the process unfolds:
1. Initial Conversation – This is where the story begins. Share your vision, your hopes for the piece, and the space where the portrait will live.
2. Selecting the Right Artist – Based on your preferences and artistic leanings, The Portrait Agency introduces you to Minnesota artists whose styles resonate most.
3. Reference Gathering – Be it through photographs or live sittings, the artist collects what they need to begin the creative process.
4. The Artistic Process – With your input along the way, the artist begins work. You may receive updates as the portrait develops.
5. Delivery – Once complete, the portrait is delivered safely and securely—ready to become a cherished legacy in your home or workplace.
Styles and Mediums Available
What sets Minnesota’s portrait artists apart is their versatility across a wide range of styles and mediums. Whether your tastes lean traditional or contemporary, you’ll find artists ready to make your vision tangible:
Oil on canvas – Rich, classic, and deeply expressive—perfect for heirloom portraits or formal pieces.
Graphite or charcoal – Black-and-white mediums that highlight form and depth with dramatic effect.
Pastels – Gentle, textured, and evocative—well-suited for children’s portraits or softer themes.
Mixed media or digital formats – Ideal for modern homes or for those who appreciate an innovative edge.
Each portrait is a reflection of both subject and artist—a timeless meeting of vision and mastery.
Beyond the Traditional: Special Commissions
Minnesota’s artists, much like the land that shapes them, are diverse and dynamic. In addition to individual and family portraits, you’ll find artists ready to take on meaningful specialty commissions:
Corporate Portraits – Honor the leaders and visionaries of your company with a distinguished portrait.
Pet Portraits – Immortalize your four-legged companion with a painting that captures their personality and energy.
Memorial Portraits – Crafted with compassion and sensitivity, these portraits celebrate and preserve cherished memories.
Each piece is thoughtfully composed to stand as a lasting tribute.
Tips for a Meaningful Commission
To ensure your portrait reflects the authenticity and beauty you envision, here are a few pointers:
Be specific and expressive – Talk openly about the subject’s personality, style, and the emotion you want the portrait to convey.
Offer high-quality references – The clearer your photos or ideas, the more precisely the artist can work.
Trust the process – Great portraiture takes time. Allow space for the artist to create, and the results will speak for themselves.
Stay engaged – Communication is key. A portrait is a shared creation between artist and client.
The Final Word: Trust The Portrait Agency
If you’re seeking a portrait that captures not just a likeness, but a spirit—look no further than The Portrait Agency. Their dedication to connecting you with Minnesota’s most talented portrait artists makes every step of the process not just easy, but truly meaningful.
Whether your heart is set on a formal oil painting, a delicate charcoal sketch, or a vibrant contemporary piece, the artists represented by The Portrait Agency are deeply committed to excellence, authenticity, and artistry.
When you think of portrait artists in Minnesota, think of The Portrait Agency—a trusted partner in bringing your vision to life with grace, professionalism, and artistic brilliance.
- We discuss your requirements over a phone or video call (approx 5-10 minutes)
- You send us good quality photos as reference material – preferably natural light
- Live sittings are optional
- We give you an exact quote, and then take a deposit (balance due on completion)
- Portraits usually take around 6 weeks to complete
- Video / photos are sent regularly to ensure we exceed your expectations
- You can have calls with the artist at any time during the process
- You can feedback on any adjustments such skin / hair color
- Super high res photos and video sent of final portrait for you to sign off
- Final payment is made only when you are ecstatically happy
- The portrait is shipped by courier to your home after the painting has dried
- Tissues are provided for emotional reactions to the portrait (tears of joy are not unusual!)
- You love the painting so much that you order another to hang elsewhere 🙂
- The artist can even do an exact copy of the painting to hang in a 2nd home
Why Commission a Portrait in Minnesota
For generations, portraiture has stood as one of the most personal and thoughtful ways to honor the people who shape our lives. Even today, in a world of quick selfies and digital albums, an oil portrait carries a stillness—a gravity—that speaks volumes without ever saying a word.
Choosing to commission a portrait is a gesture that endures. It’s a tribute, a time capsule, and a gift for those who come after us. Something about it whispers, “This mattered. This person mattered.”
Whether you’re a seasoned art lover or commissioning your very first piece, the journey is as meaningful as the finished painting—and we’re here to walk it with you, every step of the way.
Portraits are more than representations. They’re reflections of life, character, and quiet moments. They don’t just show someone’s face—they reveal something about their spirit. That’s what makes this work so powerful, and why we take it so seriously.
Craftsmanship Rooted in Depth
At The Portrait Agency, we collaborate with artists who not only master technique but also understand emotion. Each one has been selected for their ability to see beyond surface and create portraits filled with depth, dignity, and heart.
They’re not just painters. They’re listeners. Observers. Interpreters of memory and love.
A Personalized Process, Just for You
We believe that the best portraits come from partnership. Your ideas, your vision, and your story are essential to the process. From your very first chat with one of our consultants, we begin shaping a portrait experience that’s truly yours.
Every detail matters—pose, setting, expression, tone. And together, we make sure it all aligns with what you want to remember.
Find a Style That Speaks to You
Whether you love the quiet elegance of classical oils or the expressive energy of contemporary line work, our roster includes artists working across a variety of mediums and styles.
Some clients come in with a clear picture; others just have a feeling. Either way, we’ll help match you with an artist who brings it to life—beautifully.
Only the Finest Quality
We believe that important stories deserve exceptional care. That’s why we only work with materials built to stand the test of time. From oil to canvas to frame, every piece is constructed with longevity in mind—something to be admired now and cherished forever.
More Than a Picture—A Lasting Story
A portrait isn’t just a decorative piece. It’s a statement. A memorial. A message that says, “This person mattered, and they always will.” It’s something that doesn’t just hang on your wall, but grows with your family, passed from one generation to the next.
Our Commitment to Your Satisfaction
Our job doesn’t end when the brush is laid down. We’re here to guide and support you throughout the entire experience, ensuring that every detail feels right and the final portrait feels like a true reflection of the life or love it represents.
This isn’t just an art piece—it’s a piece of your life. And we honor that.
Commissioning a Portrait in Minnesota
Minnesota is a place where seasons shift with poetry and people hold tightly to tradition and family. Whether you’re from Minneapolis, St. Paul, Duluth, or a quiet lake town, there’s a kind of stillness and sincerity here that lends itself beautifully to portraiture.
At The Portrait Agency, we know how to work with that spirit. We know how to bring your stories to canvas in a way that feels honest, grounded, and unmistakably yours.
Not sure where to begin? Our Portrait Consultants are here to help, whether you’re starting from a photo or simply an idea.
Because Some Things Deserve More Than Words
There are moments and people that deserve to be remembered in a way that words just can’t capture. A portrait holds that memory in its own language—a language of light, line, and emotion.
Why Minnesotans Trust The Portrait Agency
Folks here know the value of doing things right. We take time. We listen closely. We make sure that what we create not only looks good but feels true. That’s why families all over Minnesota come to us when they want something real—something lasting.
From the First Thought to the Final Frame
Everything begins with your story. Who are we honoring? What do you want the portrait to hold? From there, the artist takes the reins—sketch by sketch, stroke by stroke—until something extraordinary takes shape.
And when it’s finished, it won’t just be a painting. It’ll be a living memory.
Made with Intention to Endure
In Minnesota, we value what’s built to last—homes, friendships, and stories alike. That’s why every portrait we produce is made with heirloom-quality craftsmanship, designed not just to look beautiful but to stand strong through the years.
A Meaningful Presence in Your Home
A portrait doesn’t shout—but it speaks. In a study, over a mantel, down a quiet hallway—it brings stillness and reflection into your space. It becomes a fixture of your home, woven into its rhythm, its gatherings, its memories.
Leave It To Us
Once you have picked the perfect artist and you’re ready to go ahead, we take a 50% deposit and book in the time with the artist. We’ll regularly communicate with them on your behalf to ensure the brief is understood and you get exactly what you are hoping for. You can contact us with any questions that may come up- we are here for you throughout the entire process.
We will keep you updated throughout this exciting journey and share images and/or videos of the paintings progress.
At this stage we will take the remaining balance 50% and arrange shipping. This will differ based on your location and the cost will be added to your invoice.
Once the portrait arrives in it’s new home we would love to see a photo!
We know that this is an incredibly special piece and hope it will bring you many, many years of enjoyment.
PAINTING FROM PHOTOS
Our artists can work from photographs to create your masterpiece portrait. We typically require a high resolution image which is well lit and sharp in detail. We may also request additional images as reference to ensure an accurate likeness is captured. However, we have been able to achieve incredible results with very old and low quality photographs too, so send us your enquiry today and we can discuss an array of options!
DECADES OF EXPERIENCE
With over 30 years of experience in the Art Industry, we are confident that we can offer an unriveled level of service throughout the entire process of having your portrait created. We are happy to answer any questions that you might have and give you total assurance that the end result with surpass your expectations.