From the artist:

This was a commission from Oscars Brother Franco. To produce Oscar from a photo from 1982. In an oil painting on canvas, I had to do a lot of research to bring Oscar to life. And use lots of photos to create a lasting memory for Franco. This was written by Franco I was chuffed to bits. I’d like to present to you a portrait of my late brother Oscar Airey ex Life Guards of which I commissioned my good friend and former Coldstream Guardsman now highly regarded military artist Kevin John Preston to create from an old photograph of Oscar wearing state ceremonial order. This would be a tall order for Kevin and put his considerable skills and years of work as an artist to the test. A challenge I knew Kevin would take on with real purpose and dedication. To make things even more challenging for Kevin. I had also asked if he could create changes from the original that would contain a younger version of my brother taken from a picture whilst based in Germany in 1982 dressed in the same ceremonial uniform. This would be no easy task but when you see the photos Kevin has worked from in trying to produce a true effect of Oscar from that period. I could not have asked for anything more than what Kevin has so skilfully portrayed. At the very beginning of this project, my wish was to have a portrait of my brother that would give me peace and comfort and something I could cherish of his memory for the rest of my life. I believe no other person could have taken on such a task or produced such a wonderful and lasting tribute in preserving the memory of my dearly beloved brother who was taken from us far too early and for this I will forever be indebted and eternally grateful to my dear friend Kevin. All that remains is for this incredible work of art to be professionally framed with a museum effect paint finish made from Italian Wood with clear None reflective unbreakable UV glass effect with engraved name plate created by Ryan Payne containing my brothers medals and ribbons created by Martin Dave Mitchell former Master Tailor of the Coldstream Guards. Also contained in the frame will be three cap badges of which one will be a King Edward VIII Life Guards kindly gifted to me by Oscars close friend John Michael Tanner ex Life Guards along with today’s existing Cap Badge and one of The Household Cavalry of which all will be mounted on a blue red blue backing. For you my dearest brother, you were the shiniest and smartest of them all and everything I aspired to be as your younger brother. Rest in peace Oscar knowing you will forever be in our hearts 💙❤️💙