"Namesakes" evolved from an attempt to find a special birthday gift for my friend, Jeffrey. When my shopping adventures were unsuccessful, I, Cathy Wagner, went into my studio and decided to use my artistic talents to create something for him. I designed a piece of art using his name - each letter of his name was surrounded by words that described my friend. I then added silhouettes of activities that he was involved in and enjoyed. My friend loved the gift and said, "Cathy, you've captured my essence. He also encouraged me to go into business creating these unique pieces of art for others to enjoy. And so from that one gift a business was born.  My sister, Christine Wagner suggested naming the pieces "Namesakes" because namesake means to characterize a person, place or thing. I think namesake perfectly describes this art form. I hope you enjoy my website and consider having me create a special namesake for you.

Each piece of artwork, as seen in the upper left hand corner of this page and in the namesakes gallery, is created on high quality, acid free Bristol board. I begin with a light pencil sketch of each letter. Next, using a technical pen I outline each large letter with words that describe the client (be it a person, place or thing). After the words are added, I color the letters with professional grade artist prismacolor markers. Each piece is signed and dated by the artist.

The price for each customized namesake of 5 letters or less is $50.00. The artwork is created on a 14" x 17" Bristol board and can be framed in a standard 16" x 20" frame which is readily available at local retail stores. For names over 6 letters there is an additional charge of $5.00 per letter and the overall size of the piece may have to be drawn on a larger board to accommodate the additional letters. However, most names can fit on the 14" x 17" board. Each piece includes two silhouettes. Additional silhouettes can be added for $5.00 each. Most special requests can be accommodated.

Samples of these artworks can be viewed at the "namesakes gallery" link at the left. To order a "Namesake"  for yourself or as a gift, click on the "order form" button at the left and fill out the form with the information that will be used to create your custom "Namesake". I will email you with a price quotation for your product as well as a completion date. At that time payment may be made using a credit card at the "payments" button at left.