How to Commission Artwork
Did you find the perfect piece for your space and it was already sold? Or maybe the wrong size? Or maybe you loved the idea but the palette was just a little bit off? There’s lots of reasons why you may be on the sear for a custom piece of art! Most artist’s will work with you to create the absolute perfect piece for you, but if you’ve never been through the process before, we’re here to help take out the guesswork.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN COMMISSIONING CUSTOM ARTWORK
1. You found your artist! That’s a great first step! Start making a list of the things you like in their work, like colors, subject matter, etc. I always find it helpful when collector’s let me know the pieces of mine that they are most drawn to. Try to be as specific as you can. Even if you don’t know the terminology for something, point it out! The more information that we as artist’s have, the better we can anticipate what you’re looking for in a finished product.
2. Don’t expect an exact replica of previous works. It’s great to be inspired by someone’s work, but the joy of purchasing original art is knowing that you’ve got an original!
3. What not to do: Always avoid asking an artist to copy someone else’s work - any artist with integrity should turn you down since the fun of art is the creativity and copying someone else’s work is a big no no.
4. If you’re trying to color match in a room, try and provide the actual fabric, wallpaper, paint etc. samples. Photographs can be tricky with lighting and even if it looks good on your end, it may look different on the artist’s phone or computer screen. I love seeing photos of or the actual space where work will be installed so that I get a general feel for the collector’s aesthetic.
5. Expect to put down between 30 and 50% towards the purchase price. This is usually nonrefundable, but the terms, contracts and conditions vary from artist to artist.
6. If you’re unsure of the dimensions, send the artist your wall measurements, or the measurement of the furniture that it will be hung over. They can help you to figure out what size will look best. This is another time when photos or seeing the space in person can be really beneficial to the artist. I have a lot of collectors that use colored painters tape on the wall first to get a feel for the size.
7. Expect limited reworks. Most artists will rework a piece one to two times before they start to charge. This is why managing expectations up front is so important!
8. Plan ahead. Most artists take between 4-12 weeks to deliver the final piece.
9. If you’re commissioning a portrait based off of photos, take the artist several. One to paint from and a few for them to get an idea of the person. Sometimes features, eye and hair colors and other things like dimples get lost in the photography.
10. Most importantly, have fun with it!! Art is such a great investment and the perfect way to showcase your personality - this should be fun, not stressful!
