Creating an Official Judicial Portrait for Senior U.S. District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree
Some portraits are created for a family home.
Some are created for an office.
And occasionally, a portrait is created to become part of history.
Recently, we had the privilege of working with Senior United States District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree as he prepared to transition to senior status after years of distinguished service. His official portrait would take its place in the Robert J. Dole Courthouse in Kansas City, Kansas, where it will be installed alongside the judges who have helped shape the court’s history.
Projects like this begin long before the camera comes out.
We met together several times to discuss the purpose of the portrait, the environment where it would be displayed, and the details that would help create an image worthy of the occasion. Wardrobe, expression, lighting, pose, and presentation were all carefully considered. By the time portrait day arrived, there were no surprises. Everyone involved knew exactly what we were creating.
As a result, the actual portrait session was remarkably efficient. Careful planning allowed us to focus completely on creating the final image rather than making decisions in the moment.
One of the things we have learned over the years is that the most successful portraits rarely happen by accident. Whether we are creating a family legacy portrait, a business branding image, or an official judicial commission, thoughtful preparation gives our clients confidence and allows the finished portrait to reflect who they truly are.
Recently, Jonathan had the honor of attending the Official Portrait Ceremony at the Robert J. Dole Courthouse for the grand unveiling. Seeing the portrait installed in its permanent home, surrounded by colleagues, friends, and members of the legal community, was a reminder that portraits can serve a purpose far beyond a single day.
They become part of the places where history is remembered.
While every official portrait is unique, the responsibility is one we know well. Over the years, Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio has been commissioned to create portraits for hospital presidents, leaders of national medical organizations, financial institutions, city councils, and other professionals whose portraits would become a permanent part of the places they served. Whether the final artwork is displayed in a family home, a boardroom, a healthcare institution, or a courthouse, our approach remains the same: thoughtful planning, careful collaboration, and creating a portrait worthy of the story it represents.
For us, creating portraits is about more than producing a beautiful image. It is about understanding the responsibility that comes with documenting a life, a career, and a legacy that will be seen by generations to come.
We are deeply grateful to Judge Crabtree for trusting Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio with such an important commission and for allowing us to play a small part in preserving this moment in the history of the court.
What is an Official Portrait?
An official portrait is a commissioned work created to honor a person’s service, leadership, or contribution to an organization or institution. These portraits are often permanently displayed in courthouses, boardrooms, hospitals, government buildings, and professional offices.
How do you plan an official portrait commission
Every commission begins with planning appointments where we discuss the purpose of the portrait, where it will be displayed, wardrobe, lighting, expression, and the overall feeling the finished artwork should convey. Careful planning helps ensure a smooth and efficient portrait session.
Have you created portraits for other community and business leaders?
Yes. Over the years, Strauss Peyton Portrait Studio has been commissioned to create portraits for hospital presidents, leaders of national medical organizations, financial institutions, city councils, executives, and other professionals throughout the Kansas City area.
Can you help with where and how the portrait will be displayed
Absolutely. We consider the final display location during the planning process and help clients create artwork that fits the space and reflects the significance of the occasion.
When should an organization begin planning an official portrait commission?
The earlier the better. Official portraits often involve coordinating schedules, selecting wardrobe, considering where the portrait will be displayed, and making sure the finished artwork reflects the significance of the occasion. If there’s an event like a Portrait Ceremony planned, it’s best to start 4-6 months in advance.
We already have paintings displayed in our organization. Can you create something that fits with the existing collection?
In many cases, yes. We can work within an established style or finish such as a painting or help create a portrait that complements an existing display while still reflecting the individual being honored.