Photos Are Good, Paintings Are Better!

Photos Are Good, Paintings Are Better!

It’s a New Zealand first that’s making a worldwide splash: a service that turns digital photos into hand painted masterpieces. Kiwi founder of Picarto, Toby burrows, has pioneered technology that allows photos to be uploaded directly from Facebook, Instagram and Flickr, to be recreated on canvas in picture-perfect pencil, watercolours and oils.

Although photo-realistic artworks are usually expensive and take months to produce, Picarto’s affordable, fast-turnaround service enables happy-snappers to enjoy their photos in lifelike, hand painted detail.

The simple online process makes ordering easy - with images uploaded directly from smartphones or computers. After selecting a size and style, it’s even possible to request alterations, such as removing an unwanted background figure, or cropping the image to improve framing. Highly skilled artists then recreate the photo by hand - with incredibly realistic results.

‘Each image is truly unique,’ says Burrows. ‘The illustrations are true to life, but with depth and subtlety from hand-rendered watercolour, oil and pencil techniques. Each piece is a valuable artwork in its own right.’

Burrows has found great success in the Australian market already and is currently basing himself in Sydney, making regular commutes back to his hometown of Christchurch.

“I’m excited to bring this service to New Zealand because it is something new, innovative and unseen in the current online services market.”

Burrows believes that these personalised artworks are the perfect gift for any occasion: created from a favourite photo, ordered online in 5 minutes and delivered within 4 weeks.

Examples are viewable online in the Picarto Gallery.

ENDS

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