Questions frequently asked of me...
and the real, if sometimes sassy, answers.
Questions about original paintings...
What do you mean by "original"?
An original is a one of a kind, hand painted piece of art.
An original is a one of a kind, hand painted piece of art.
Are these original paintings on this website?
Every image of my work that you see on the website is from an original that has been photographed to make giclee prints from. This website contains only giclee prints of my work with the exception of some small paintings in the Gift Shop (click on Gallery drop down menu).
Every image of my work that you see on the website is from an original that has been photographed to make giclee prints from. This website contains only giclee prints of my work with the exception of some small paintings in the Gift Shop (click on Gallery drop down menu).
What if I want to buy an original?
Dooo it! Contact me, I'm happy to help you out with that. The pieces on my site say whether they are available in original form, but it is always best to contact me to make sure. I also have dozens of paintings in my studio that are not listed on the website, in case you are looking for something you don't see on the site.
Dooo it! Contact me, I'm happy to help you out with that. The pieces on my site say whether they are available in original form, but it is always best to contact me to make sure. I also have dozens of paintings in my studio that are not listed on the website, in case you are looking for something you don't see on the site.
What medium do you use?
I paint in acrylics almost exclusively unless I have a special request or the project requires a different medium.
I paint in acrylics almost exclusively unless I have a special request or the project requires a different medium.
Do you do custom art?
Yasss! Custom art is has always been a large portion of my business, and I'm happy to sit and chat with you about creating that perfect custom piece! I can create art in most sizes and on canvas or other materials. I also create custom murals on walls for homes and businesses, indoors and outdoors.
Yasss! Custom art is has always been a large portion of my business, and I'm happy to sit and chat with you about creating that perfect custom piece! I can create art in most sizes and on canvas or other materials. I also create custom murals on walls for homes and businesses, indoors and outdoors.
How would I go about having a custom Thaddeus Art painting created?
First, if you are interested in having a custom piece created, don't be shy, I'm happy to discuss it with you! I've been creating custom art for people for over 20 years, and I've found that the best way to begin is for you to take a look at my previous paintings and my style, and point out one or two pieces that speak to you for whatever reason. We can look at those pieces, along with whatever imagery or ideas you have that you'd like included in your custom piece. Next we will discuss size and price. Some people want to see a sketch or mockup ahead of time, some want me to "run with it" without a sketch. That is up to you. As far as payment goes, I ask for 1/2 down for a custom piece, and the rest is due upon completion. I will send snapshots along the way if you like! This same process applies to mural work as well.
First, if you are interested in having a custom piece created, don't be shy, I'm happy to discuss it with you! I've been creating custom art for people for over 20 years, and I've found that the best way to begin is for you to take a look at my previous paintings and my style, and point out one or two pieces that speak to you for whatever reason. We can look at those pieces, along with whatever imagery or ideas you have that you'd like included in your custom piece. Next we will discuss size and price. Some people want to see a sketch or mockup ahead of time, some want me to "run with it" without a sketch. That is up to you. As far as payment goes, I ask for 1/2 down for a custom piece, and the rest is due upon completion. I will send snapshots along the way if you like! This same process applies to mural work as well.
How long does it take to create a piece?
This is one of my top 2 FAQ's! The amount of work time that goes into an original can range from 20 to over 200 hours. This is for mid to large sized pieces. Small paintings (6" x 6", 10" x 10", 12" x 12" for example) take less time, between 4 and 20 hours. I do not keep track of hours on each individual painting (when people ask me about the time it takes to paint specific pieces I can give a ballpark time at best). Each piece is different and even painting two very similar pieces of the same size can vary in the time it takes because of something as simple as a more complex color blend.
This is one of my top 2 FAQ's! The amount of work time that goes into an original can range from 20 to over 200 hours. This is for mid to large sized pieces. Small paintings (6" x 6", 10" x 10", 12" x 12" for example) take less time, between 4 and 20 hours. I do not keep track of hours on each individual painting (when people ask me about the time it takes to paint specific pieces I can give a ballpark time at best). Each piece is different and even painting two very similar pieces of the same size can vary in the time it takes because of something as simple as a more complex color blend.
Will moisture damage the paintings?
When I get this question, I usually assume someone is looking to hang a piece in a bathroom. In that case, no. Moisture from shower steam will not damage the paint on the canvas, as the paint itself is moisture resistant and the seal coats protect it even further. Where moisture would damage a piece is if it is sitting in standing water, as the stretcher bars could warp, though the canvas would still most likely be just fine. So, just don't soak the painting in your bathtub, and you should be good!
When I get this question, I usually assume someone is looking to hang a piece in a bathroom. In that case, no. Moisture from shower steam will not damage the paint on the canvas, as the paint itself is moisture resistant and the seal coats protect it even further. Where moisture would damage a piece is if it is sitting in standing water, as the stretcher bars could warp, though the canvas would still most likely be just fine. So, just don't soak the painting in your bathtub, and you should be good!
Will your original paintings fade in the sun?
No. The paint itself is UV resistant and I put several seal coats on top which protect my pieces even further.
No. The paint itself is UV resistant and I put several seal coats on top which protect my pieces even further.
Questions about giclee prints...
What is a giclee print?
Giclee printing is the process I use to create my reproductions. A description of this process can be found under my "About" section on this website. I sign and number all of my giclee prints on canvas and paper, as they are all limited additions.
Giclee printing is the process I use to create my reproductions. A description of this process can be found under my "About" section on this website. I sign and number all of my giclee prints on canvas and paper, as they are all limited additions.
What is the difference between an original and a giclee print?
The original is the original. It is completely hand painted and there is only 1 made. Giclee are reproductions of said original...very similar in look, and hand signed and numbered by me. Originals are more rare and have more value, therefore they are more expensive to purchase.
The original is the original. It is completely hand painted and there is only 1 made. Giclee are reproductions of said original...very similar in look, and hand signed and numbered by me. Originals are more rare and have more value, therefore they are more expensive to purchase.
What is the difference between a paper and a canvas giclee print?
One is on paper and one is on canvas. Ok, ok, I'll expand. Giclee on paper are printed on a thick fine art paper and require framing. When shipped the larger paper giclee will arrive rolled in a tube. Giclee on stretched canvas are printed on canvas and stretched, so the look is more like the original with the image wrapped around the edges. Giclee on canvas do not require framing.
One is on paper and one is on canvas. Ok, ok, I'll expand. Giclee on paper are printed on a thick fine art paper and require framing. When shipped the larger paper giclee will arrive rolled in a tube. Giclee on stretched canvas are printed on canvas and stretched, so the look is more like the original with the image wrapped around the edges. Giclee on canvas do not require framing.
Where can I get a frame for an odd sized paper print?
Custom framing from your local framer or a craft store is one option. There are also websites like arttoframe.com which will allow you to order frames in any size with different mats and finishes sent directly to your home. This is a more cost effective way of custom framing.
Custom framing from your local framer or a craft store is one option. There are also websites like arttoframe.com which will allow you to order frames in any size with different mats and finishes sent directly to your home. This is a more cost effective way of custom framing.
Will giclee prints fade in the sun?
No. The ink used in the giclee printing process is UV resistant.
No. The ink used in the giclee printing process is UV resistant.
Questions about Pricing...
How much do your originals cost?
It depends on the size and complexity of each piece. I have small canvas pieces priced under $100, my largest, most detailed paintings are priced at $4,000 or more, and then there's everything in between. I can give more accurate pricing when people point out a specific piece they want to purchase, or get me details on the kind of custom piece they would like me to create. Prices are marked on my originals wherever I show my work in person.
Mural pricing is based on many factors including size, surface, working conditions, etc.
It depends on the size and complexity of each piece. I have small canvas pieces priced under $100, my largest, most detailed paintings are priced at $4,000 or more, and then there's everything in between. I can give more accurate pricing when people point out a specific piece they want to purchase, or get me details on the kind of custom piece they would like me to create. Prices are marked on my originals wherever I show my work in person.
Mural pricing is based on many factors including size, surface, working conditions, etc.
Why are your originals so expensive?
There is value in my work. As a professional artist selling paintings for over 20 years, I paint quality pieces using a multi step, multi layered process. The amount of work time that goes into an original can range from 20 to over 200 hours. Thaddeus Art is also a business with expenses for art supplies, exhibit fees, exhibit booth display, printing costs, technology, etc.
There is value in my work. As a professional artist selling paintings for over 20 years, I paint quality pieces using a multi step, multi layered process. The amount of work time that goes into an original can range from 20 to over 200 hours. Thaddeus Art is also a business with expenses for art supplies, exhibit fees, exhibit booth display, printing costs, technology, etc.
Do you have payment plans?
I do! Good art can be pricey, and I do my best to get you that art that you need.
For original artwork between $150 and $300 I allow for a 2 month payment plan, which requires 1/2 down the first month, and the other half due upon delivery in the second month.
For original artwork $300-$2,000, I allow for a 3 month payment plan, which requires 1/3 down the first month, and 1/3 each month with final payment due upon delivery on the third month.
For original artwork over $2,000, I allow for a 4 month payment plan, which requires 1/4 down the first month, and 1/4 each month with final payment due upon delivery on the fourth month.
Payment plans are for original artwork only.
I do! Good art can be pricey, and I do my best to get you that art that you need.
For original artwork between $150 and $300 I allow for a 2 month payment plan, which requires 1/2 down the first month, and the other half due upon delivery in the second month.
For original artwork $300-$2,000, I allow for a 3 month payment plan, which requires 1/3 down the first month, and 1/3 each month with final payment due upon delivery on the third month.
For original artwork over $2,000, I allow for a 4 month payment plan, which requires 1/4 down the first month, and 1/4 each month with final payment due upon delivery on the fourth month.
Payment plans are for original artwork only.
What payment methods do you take?
Pretty much anything that's legit. In person I take all credit cards, cash, and maybe a check. If you'd like to purchase online, you can purchase prints directly though my website using a credit card. If you are paying for a custom piece I can send you a square invoice via email and you can pay with your credit card that way, or we can meet up for a cash payment, or maybe I'll let you send a check. I can also accept Venmo or Zelle.
Pretty much anything that's legit. In person I take all credit cards, cash, and maybe a check. If you'd like to purchase online, you can purchase prints directly though my website using a credit card. If you are paying for a custom piece I can send you a square invoice via email and you can pay with your credit card that way, or we can meet up for a cash payment, or maybe I'll let you send a check. I can also accept Venmo or Zelle.
Do you charge sales tax?
Yes.
Yes.
Other questions about the art...
Do people frame your originals or canvas prints?
Rarely, but it happens. If you want the frame to connect with your decor, go for it, but it's not necessary as my pieces are painted on gallery wrapped canvases and the painting continues around the edges.
Rarely, but it happens. If you want the frame to connect with your decor, go for it, but it's not necessary as my pieces are painted on gallery wrapped canvases and the painting continues around the edges.
Are the people in your portraits based on real people?
Some of them! I explore this in my "Pride 2020 Preview" YouTube video. "Common Threads: the Birth of Pride" has historic figures and fictional figures in the same piece. Other pieces are purely fictional, created for a certain look, feel, or mood. Some pieces include people who are fictional, but based off a look of someone I have seen. I will occasionally get the opportunity to work with a live model (yes, some of the nude portraits).
Some of them! I explore this in my "Pride 2020 Preview" YouTube video. "Common Threads: the Birth of Pride" has historic figures and fictional figures in the same piece. Other pieces are purely fictional, created for a certain look, feel, or mood. Some pieces include people who are fictional, but based off a look of someone I have seen. I will occasionally get the opportunity to work with a live model (yes, some of the nude portraits).
When is your next show?
The best way to keep track of my upcoming events is through my social media... @thaddeus_art on Instagram and @peterthaddeusart on Facebook. I also have a calendar of events on this website under the "connect" tab.
The best way to keep track of my upcoming events is through my social media... @thaddeus_art on Instagram and @peterthaddeusart on Facebook. I also have a calendar of events on this website under the "connect" tab.
Do you have Thaddeus Art face masks?
Yes! You can find face masks with my art printed on them (along with a lot of other merch) at www.redbubble.com/people/thaddeus-art.
Yes! You can find face masks with my art printed on them (along with a lot of other merch) at www.redbubble.com/people/thaddeus-art.
Personal questions...
How old are you?
I was born in the year that Keith Haring created Montreux, if you care to do the research on that. March 14th specifically. Feel free to purchase Thaddeus Art on that day each year, it'll make my birthday extra happy.
I was born in the year that Keith Haring created Montreux, if you care to do the research on that. March 14th specifically. Feel free to purchase Thaddeus Art on that day each year, it'll make my birthday extra happy.
What inspires you?
Ah...the question! The answer to this question is my first blog post, "Artistic Passion and the Courage of Pride", posted on my blog page on June 1st, 2020.
Ah...the question! The answer to this question is my first blog post, "Artistic Passion and the Courage of Pride", posted on my blog page on June 1st, 2020.
Do you do this full time?
Yasss! More than full time. Being an artist is not only my business, it is also my calling and my passion.
Yasss! More than full time. Being an artist is not only my business, it is also my calling and my passion.
What famous artist is your inspiration?
The answer to this question can be found in my blog, "It Could Be Worse, It Could Be Raining", posted on June 20th, 2020.
I know, this page is full of unsatisfying answers.
The answer to this question can be found in my blog, "It Could Be Worse, It Could Be Raining", posted on June 20th, 2020.
I know, this page is full of unsatisfying answers.
How long have you been interested in art?
Since Keith Haring created Montreux. I was encouraged to develop my artistic skills from a very early age. I took up painting in a big way starting at age 12.
Since Keith Haring created Montreux. I was encouraged to develop my artistic skills from a very early age. I took up painting in a big way starting at age 12.
When did you sell your first painting?
1999. The painting was called "Confusion" and I sold it out of a furniture store in Bucktown, Chicago. A picture of it exists somewhere, though I have been unable to find it for years. It looked something like swirl art and it was painted mostly in blues and purples.
1999. The painting was called "Confusion" and I sold it out of a furniture store in Bucktown, Chicago. A picture of it exists somewhere, though I have been unable to find it for years. It looked something like swirl art and it was painted mostly in blues and purples.
Where did you study art?
I'm largely self taught as an artist. I studied interior design at the Art Institute of Colorado and received my B.A. in Interior Design from the Illinois Institute of Art in Schaumburg, Illinois.
I'm largely self taught as an artist. I studied interior design at the Art Institute of Colorado and received my B.A. in Interior Design from the Illinois Institute of Art in Schaumburg, Illinois.
Where is your studio?
At my home in Warrenville, IL. It's a great home base to create when I'm not traveling for shows and inspiration!
At my home in Warrenville, IL. It's a great home base to create when I'm not traveling for shows and inspiration!
Do you ever get "painters block"?
I really don't. I'm most often working on several pieces at one time, so if I get stuck on one I just go to another.
I really don't. I'm most often working on several pieces at one time, so if I get stuck on one I just go to another.
Is it offensive to you if I hang one of your pieces in my bathroom?
Absolutely not! People spend a lot of time in bathrooms. I suggest hanging the painting in front of a mirror so you can enjoy it as you get ready every morning, or across from a soaker tub to view while you relax after a long day.
Absolutely not! People spend a lot of time in bathrooms. I suggest hanging the painting in front of a mirror so you can enjoy it as you get ready every morning, or across from a soaker tub to view while you relax after a long day.
Do you teach painting?
I don't. I have taught in the past, but more recently I've needed that time to focus on the work that I'm most passionate about.
I don't. I have taught in the past, but more recently I've needed that time to focus on the work that I'm most passionate about.
What is Youth Outlook and what do you do there?
Youth Outlook is the first social service agency in Illinois solely dedicated to the support of LGBTQ+ youth. We work in 6 counties in the Chicago suburbs, offering drop-in centers for youth, parent support, and community education. I run the Naperville Tuesday night drop-in center and the Healthy Relationship program for Youth Outlook. I share my time and artistic passion with the LGBTQ+ youth and this agency that means so much to me. Find out more about Youth Outlook at www.youth-outlook.org.
Youth Outlook is the first social service agency in Illinois solely dedicated to the support of LGBTQ+ youth. We work in 6 counties in the Chicago suburbs, offering drop-in centers for youth, parent support, and community education. I run the Naperville Tuesday night drop-in center and the Healthy Relationship program for Youth Outlook. I share my time and artistic passion with the LGBTQ+ youth and this agency that means so much to me. Find out more about Youth Outlook at www.youth-outlook.org.
Questions that are really none of your business,
but y'all keep asking anyways...
but y'all keep asking anyways...
Are you high when you paint?
No.
No.
Are you on acid when you paint?
Still no.
Still no.
Shrooms?
Stahp. My creativity doesn't need outside enhancement.
Stahp. My creativity doesn't need outside enhancement.
How is your health? I'm wondering when the painting I bought will be worth millions.
I'm still kicking, but hang onto that art!
I'm still kicking, but hang onto that art!