Stories from the Studio: An Extra Special Oil Painting Commission
One of the greatest joys of being an artist is creating oil painting commissions that transform memories into lasting works of art. My recent oil painting of La Jolla Cove — commissioned by my best friend for her new home — is the perfect example of how a painting can capture both place and emotion in a way that lives on forever. Today I want to share the story of all the love, care and details that going into making a fine art piece like this.
A Custom La Jolla Cove Oil Painting Commission
In San Diego, La Jolla Cove is one of the most breathtaking and meaningful places — not only for me, but for my best friend Jenny and her husband Drew. They were married with a view of the cove, so when they moved into their beautiful new home, they knew they wanted more than just décor on the walls. They wanted a custom oil painting commission that would feel personal, timeless, and like a true legacy piece of art.
That’s where this project began!
The Process of Creating a Custom Oil Painting in San Diego
For commissions like this, I love to begin the way the old masters did — by going on location. I visited La Jolla Cove, immersed myself in the landscape, and created sketches and studies to find the best composition. This helps me capture not just the view, but the feeling of the place — the emerald water, the crashing waves, and the sense of peace that comes with standing on the cliffs.
From there, I studied the design of their home and pulled earth tones from their décor to inspire my color palette. This kind of attention to detail is so important with custom artwork commissions — it ensures the painting feels like it belongs in the home, not just on the wall.
Watch this La Jolla Cove oil painting commission unfold from sketch to final brushstroke. In this video, I share my process as a San Diego artist — from visiting the location and creating studies to selecting a color palette that complements the home.
Bringing the Painting to Life
Mixing the colors was pure joy. On my palette, the tones were rich and harmonious, and on the canvas they created that luminous, luxurious quality I strive for in my oil paintings. Through my brushwork, I wanted to capture not just what La Jolla Cove looks like, but what it feels like to be there — hearing the ocean, breathing in the salt air, and remembering the memories tied to that place.
Once the piece was finished, I selected a natural wood frame that complemented their interior design perfectly. Framing always feels like the final touch that transforms a painting into a true statement piece, and I absolutely loved how this frame went so perfectly with the interior design of their space.
A Personal Touch
Whenever I complete a San Diego oil painting commission, I add a handwritten dedication and poem on the back of the canvas, along with my stamp of authenticity. These small touches turn a painting into a family heirloom — something that will carry meaning for generations.
Because I was hand-delivering this piece, I wrapped it beautifully for an unboxing experience, and when I arrived, we had our own little art reception. I installed the piece myself, and the moment we stepped back to see it on the wall was unforgettable.
Why I Love Commissioned Artwork
This project reminded me why I love being a San Diego artist. There’s nothing more meaningful than transforming memories, stories, and special places into custom oil paintings that become part of someone’s life and home.
If you’re looking for a San Diego oil painting commission or a custom artwork that captures your story, I would love to make your vision come to life. I absolutely love turning cherished moments into sentimental works of art. If you’re ready for a legacy piece of art, please contact me — let’s create something unforgettable together.
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