About Projects
Projects
At Castelo Portrait Art, we believe every family deserves to exist in artwork. Our passion projects aren’t just a way to welcome new families into our studio—they’re a heartfelt expression of our commitment to legacy, beauty, and service. These projects give us the opportunity to get creative and explore something new.
It’s important to understand that while our projects offer a lower entry barrier, they are not completely “free,” and they are not contests. These projects are meaningful, creative collaborations that help make fine art portraiture more accessible. Should be selected its an honor for us to provide you with the experience and hopefully an honor for you to experience what we offer.
We have a dedicated team that pours their heart into every session, and while we truly love what we do, we also have families to support. Your participation helps us continue creating artwork that matters—for you, and for generations to come.
Why We Do It
1. To bring family artwork into your home, not just your screen.
We live in a digital era—memories often stay hidden on phones or hard drives. But there's something powerful in walking into your home and seeing your loved ones honored in timeless portraiture. It serves as a daily reminder of what matters most. Through our gifted portrait sessions, we help families begin building a legacy that can be passed through generations.
2. To serve first—with no pressure.
Choosing a portrait studio is deeply personal. We respect that trust. By offering a complimentary project session and gifted artist choice fine-art portrait, we allow you to experience our work and care without a regular session obligation. After that you can order anything you want but have no obligation towards anything specific.
What Happens When You’re Selected for a Project
-You’ll place a non-refundable retainer to reserve your session. This simply holds your spot and allows us to focus on you and honor your time—your calendar time is dedicated to you. Don’t worry, your retainer comes back to you, we are giving you the retainer back as a form of art work credit at the studio, however it is non-refundable.
-You receive a complimentary artist choice portrait—gifting you a gorgeous tangible piece of art to cherish, whether or not you decide to invest further.
Our Studio & Philosophy
Led by Master Artist Maria Sampaio, who relocated from Pittsburgh, PA to Charleston, SC our team creates heirloom-quality portraits infused with artistry and intention.
We’re a team of 12 warm, talented artists, rooted in joy, detail, and genuine connectionTogether, we create work that honors individuality and builds confidence.
Our Artistic Approach
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Unmatched artistry – Our portraits are more than photos. They are deeply considered, hand-finished works designed to endure.
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Rigorous attention to detail – We obsess over every nuance—from lighting and pose to texture and composition—to ensure each piece is flawless
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Unique portraits every time – No templates here. Every family's story deserves its own visual voice and style
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Flexible creative vision – Whether you want classical elegance, modern whimsy, or custom themes, our studio accommodates your dreams
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No project session fees – We invest our time without charging a session fee as your deposit goes fully toward your artwork
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Meaningful studio experience – From consultation to session to reveal, your experience is crafted to feel comforting, celebratory, and genuine
Legacy-focused art – Our goal is to help families “pause time” and preserve memory through portraits you and generations to come will treasure.
Your Journey with Us
Step 1: Apply or accept selection for one of our passion‑based portrait projects.
Step 2: Secure your session with a non- refundable retainer.
Step 3: Enjoy your personalized portrait session—collaborative, relaxed, and designed to reflect your family’s story.
Step 4: Choose additional artwork if desired—wall art, folio boxes, or custom storybook albums. Our team loves creating and helps you make thoughtful decisions.
Why It Matters to Us
We’re honored to serve families in this way—whether you commission additional artwork or cherish your gifted portrait alone. Our mission is to offer an experience rooted in care, artistry, and memory. Whether your session ends in one framed piece or a full collection, we hope the experience becomes a meaningful chapter in your family’s visual story.
Location & Contact
Castelo Portrait Art
10573 Highway 78, Summerville, SC 29483
For project inquiries email: info@casteloportraitart.com or call 843‑350‑9783
We would be privileged to create something meaningful for your family.