Knowing when to say "No"

[Kris Coolens]

My last commission was also done with a picture that just didn't cross the limit "no". It was a simple identity card picture. I made a good scan and enlarged it. The scan was pretty clear. Fortunately the client wanted the drawing in charcoal so I didn't have to worry about colors, just values.
It was meant to give it as a surprise gift, and he had only one photograph.

When he showed me the picture, I examined it for a long time before accepting the commission. I said I was going to try, but that it wasn't going to be easy with such a little picture. But I managed to make a good drawing, not my best, but good. The client was happy with the result, so I was too. I admit it was a risk, a challenge.