Original Custom & Commissioned Portrait Artwork in Akron, Ohio

 

A portrait is more than a likeness. It holds a person's character, a family's history, and a moment worth remembering for generations. At Ratcliff Artistic Enterprises, Akron, Ohio artist Danny Ratcliff creates original custom portrait artwork in the tradition of classical realism, bringing careful observation and a romantic touch to every piece. Whether you are honoring a parent, celebrating a marriage, or capturing your children as they are today, a commissioned portrait becomes a keepsake your family can treasure for years to come.

 

Classical Realism With a Personal Story

 

Danny's approach to commissioned portrait artwork is rooted in classical realism: accurate drawing, true proportions, and a thoughtful use of light, color, and value. He studied at the Cleveland Institute of Art, the former Cooper School of Art, Kent State University, and the University of Akron, and he considers portraiture his forte. His work has been featured on Cleveland's Channel 3 News and showcased at the Summit County Courthouse in downtown Akron. The portraits in this collection show his range, from formal single figures to couples, siblings, and family groups. Each one is composed to capture not just how someone looks, but who they are.

 

Choose Your Medium: Oil, Pastel, or Charcoal

 

Every commission begins with the medium that best suits your vision.

• Oil on canvas offers rich color, depth, and the timeless presence of a formal painting.

• Pastel on rag paper builds vibrant, layered color that takes on the richness of a painting.

• Charcoal on paper creates striking, detailed drawings with beautiful contrast, ideal for a classic head and shoulders portrait.

Not sure which to choose? Danny is happy to walk you through how each medium would suit your subject, size, and style.

 

How a Commissioned Portrait Comes Together

 

Portraits can be created from live sittings, photographs, or a combination of both. For formal portraits, Danny often photographs clients at home, where they can pose in their own favorite surroundings. A session may include anywhere from 20 to 50 or more photographs as you explore outfits, poses, and backdrops. From there, he develops the portrait until it reaches a formal completion, the point where he considers the work truly finished and ready to become part of your family's story.

 

Portraits of Adults, Children, Families, and Pets

 

Commissions range from intimate head and shoulders drawings to half figure paintings that include the hands, and even full figure, life-sized oil portraits. Danny paints adults, small children, couples, and family groups, and pets are welcome too. His family reunion paintings, including the award-winning "Generations of Love," reflect his love for scenes that bring generations together on one canvas.

 

Portrait Options for Every Occasion

 

Not every portrait has to be a large formal painting. Quick 20 minute charcoal and pastel profile portraits drawn from a live pose offer an approachable way to own original art by Danny Ratcliff, and they are a favorite at fundraisers and special events. Small 8" x 10" oil sketches and formal oil paintings offer more options in between. Pricing depends on size, medium, and the time involved, and full details are available on the Portraits Price List page.

 

Start Your Custom Portrait

 

If you are looking for a portrait artist in Akron, Ohio, Danny would love to hear about your idea. Share who you would like painted, the medium you have in mind, and any photographs you already love. It also helps to mention the approximate size and how many people or pets you would like included. Call (330) 564-5185, email ratcliffartent@yahoo.com, or visit the Contact page to begin creating original custom portrait artwork your family will cherish for generations.

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