Client request for nude commission

[Morris Darby]

Recently, I attended a show of a friend of mine who paints landscapes. While at the show I had the opportunity to chat with many of the guests. During a conversation, my friend introduced me as a portrait artist to a woman who took quite an interest.

After the group mingled elsewhere, she informed me that she would like a portrait painted of her completely nude. She was excited and more than happy to pay top price. However, after further discussion, I found out she wanted to surprise her husband with the painting. Hmmm... Well, she finally ended her speech and asked what I thought. So, my questions for her were, 1. Where will you hang this painting? Her reply: In the living room, I'd be proud of it. (Of course, why didn't I think of that) 2. What will you do when company comes over? Her reply: Oh, put it in the bedroom...on a wall.....no....behind a door....or in a drawer. 3. What will your husband think of you posing nude without his OK? Her reply: Well?

I laid out some design ideas and explained some posing tricks that would allow her the "suggestive look" she was looking for yet, still give her a tasteful, artistic rendering of her. She could hang it anywhere in her home and I may still get referrals from it. I want as many people as possible to view my paintings. I would shudder to think that my hard work would have to be hidden every time someone came to the door.