There are certain key turning points in life that should be marked, and one must be the moment when a child stands on the threshold of adulthood. As one chapter closes and another begins, a coming-of-age portrait preserves this poignant moment for parents and, ultimately, for the subject themselves and their own families.

In years to come, it is possible for a parent can stand with their own child before a portrait of themselves at the same age, noticing continuities across generations.

I am an Oxford-based portrait artist specialising in conservation-quality graphite portraits of children, teens and young adults. I work with families across the UK and internationally, creating hand-drawn coming-of-age and teen portraits that capture not only a young person's appearance but their very essence and spirit. 

Each portrait is drawn entirely by hand, using classical techniques and archival materials carefully selected for their longevity.

Why families commission this work

Families commission portraits for many reasons:

• to mark a milestone birthday
• to celebrate adolescence and young adulthood
• to capture a beautiful moment in time between siblings while they all still live together
• to preserve a fleeting season before life changes again
• as gifts for parents and grandparents
• to establish or continue family traditions of portraiture

The commissioning process

I accept a limited number of commissions each month. To begin, please join my private commission list via my website or contact me by email at emma@emmaflower.com. I will be in touch with you to discuss your requirements including sizes, subjects and timings. You can find more information about my prices and the commissioning process on this website.

I work from reference photographs and will provide you with guidance on how to choose an image that translates beautifully into graphite.

Each portrait is drawn entirely by hand over an extended period of focused studio time, allowing for careful refinement and attention to detail. I will provide you with a photograph for approval before fixative is applied and the portrait can be framed.

I offer a professional framing service with a curated range of frames chosen to complement graphite.

If you are local, your work can be collected from my studio. I can also arrange insured postage for those living further afield.

Location and availability

I am based in North Oxford and regularly work with families throughout Oxfordshire and the Cotswolds. I also accept commissions from clients across the UK and internationally.

Because of the time-intensive nature of each portrait, commissions are accepted on a limited, scheduled basis, with lead times of several weeks.