Today we’d like to introduce you to Gina Sanders.
Hi Gina, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started creating portraits of families in 2004 after the sudden death of my first husband. My daughter was only 8 weeks old when he passed and the pain of his loss and the realization that I had only one snapshot of him with my daughter was inspiration for me to pour my love for photography into something meaningful for others.
Studies have also shown that children who grow up in a home with family portraits on the wall exhibit a greater sense of self-worth and belonging. Families carry bonds that possess a strength difficult to measure. Being able to display that connection proudly with a beautifully finished work of art is such an impactful way to honor that bond.
I come from a family filled with creativity – from dancers to artists to musicians. My grandfather was a painter and I admired the timeless quality of his work. I knew if I could marry the realism of a beautifully crafted family portrait and the heirloom quality of hand artistry on canvas, I could create family artwork that is meant to last for generations.
Today we have studios located in Highland Park, IL and Charleston, SC and are celebrating 18 years in business. We have a dedicated team of extremely talented photographers, artists, art directors, and support staff who are passionate about creating a luxury experience and beautiful custom artwork for our clients. We have been fortunate to meet so many amazing local families and some who travel from other states and even internationally to have a portrait made.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
We have been able to celebrate with families in the birth of a new addition and mourn with them in the knowledge that a portrait we are making is someone’s last.
The portrait process can be a very emotional one for all involved.
Every person on staff with us has experienced great joy and deep loss, just as our clients have.
This results in some extremely heartfelt conversations with the families we commission work for. It is also the driving force in our staff’s dedication to our studios and our craft.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We specialize in formal fine art custom portraiture, professionally photographed in our studios and then created with hand artistry on canvas. Our portraits are rated to last over 200 years and meant to be passed down for generations.
We’d be interested to hear your thoughts on luck and what role, if any, you feel it’s played for you?
We have had the privilege of creating portraits for those who serve our country, provide medical care, protect the public, and educate our children. We have also been able to give back by donating to numerous charitable organizations in the communities we serve.
We truly believe we have the best job in the world. I don’t know what could be luckier than dedicating our talents to providing a memorable portrait experience and helping families honor their love for each other with beautiful artwork.
Pricing:
- Commissioned artwork starts at $1000
Contact Info:
- Email: studio@reginakelly.com
- Website: https://reginakelly.com
