A Basic Guide to Commissioning Original Artwork

Art Commissions. Easy or Difficult?

You want that certain special piece of art in your life... but maybe you are unsure or nervous of where to start? Let us take a brief look inside the world of art commissions!

Maybe you have some bare walls that need sprucing. Maybe it’s been a minute since you’ve put something new up to look at. Maybe you’re just not finding exactly what you want already made? Then perhaps it is time to commission your very own piece of artwork straight from the artist! Now… where do you start? Here’s a handy dandy guide to help with the process.

1. Do you know what type you’d like?

Are you looking for for a Landscape? Still Life? Illustration? Abstract? A Lithograph? A Photograph? Having an idea of what you would like to get is going to help with the next few steps.

2. Look for some visual inspiration.

Take some time to look at the many different types of art there are. A simple Google search is helpful but there are also platforms like Instagram that is brimming with artists as well as the ever delightful Pinterest. Save your ideas! (Keep in mind that your artist will not do an exact copy of another artist).

3. Find your artists.

Did you find some artists along the way? Some artists already take commissions. Some do not. Some don’t say if they do or don’t! Simply reach out to the one you’d like to have a commission from and ask them politely if they are willing to take on your project. Some things to keep in mind is that some artists get very busy and don’t have time to take on a new project. Don’t feel discouraged! The right artist for you will show up when you need them.

4. Know your budget

This is a biggie. The artist should ask you up front what your budget is. Once they know that, then they are able to tailor something to fit for you. A budget guides them to know how big the piece could be, what materials and how much they’ll be using, and then give you a bid or quote on how much we artists will actually charge you for the project. When I am discussing things with clients, I know that if the project is a large piece, the price scales up with it. It is helpful to me to know where the client is willing to sacrifice. Say you wanted a nice big oil painting but found out that oil paints are one of the most expensive paints there are… maybe the artist is willing to use acrylic paint for a different look instead? These are a few things to keep in mind when negotiating with your artist. Also keep in mind the delivery/mailing costs if this is applicable while you are considering your overall budget.

5. The Contract with your artist.

You have finally found your perfect artist! You decided on a style, a size, and a price. Whew! The major part is over! Now all that is left is the contract. A good artist will already have a contract written up and ready to be signed. This is a good thing for both you and the artists as it will protect both parties. It is generally following the standard guidelines of agreement to pay for a product. Standard practice will be some form of payment up front either in full or a partial good faith payment.

6. Displaying your new Art

Sometimes the artist is willing to come to your home to install the piece of work they finished. That way they can troubleshoot any problems that arise on the spot. This should be included in your negotiations. But remember, it isn’t always necessary for them to come install the piece! Depending on the piece and how it is delivered, you can just as well do it yourself without a problem. This is all according to your comfort level and what you want to do.

(Bonus) 7. How I talk to Clients

When someone reaches out to me asking about a project, I do my very best to be professional and friendly. I really understand that sometimes people can be nervous to ask questions! But I highly encourage that! The more questions there are in the beginning, the better idea we have to work with and come up with the perfect piece. Typically, I receive an email request first. A lot of the time we can conduct most of our business there. However, it can be nice to have a chance to chat over the phone, or meet in person, or via Skype if we needed to. This makes it all the more personal and I would much rather have a connection to you because it will help me to create better work. 

What do you think? Not too hard, huh? An easy guide to commissioning artwork. It should be all very simple and straightforward. There is no more reason you should feel nervous about commissioning your very own unique and original piece of artwork! Let me know if you have any questions or if you think there is something I am missing something from the list!

xoxox