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Commission Process – How To Commission A Painting

How To Commission A Painting

You have an idea for a painting and would like to commission an artist to work together to bring your idea to reality.

Whether you are commissioning a large or small, public or private painting, the process remains the same. Below are the steps you might want to follow as you commission a painting.

 

1. Choosing the artist

Finding the right artist to create your painting is the key to owning a piece you, your family, or your organization, will enjoy and value for a lifetime. It is best to find an artist whose style reflects what you are looking for and who has experience producing paintings in the style you desire.

Please check out my portrait page and other paintings to see if it reflects what you would like your commissioned art piece to look like.

2. Provide your artist with information

Before you approach an artist you may want to answer these questions yourself so you are able to clearly convey your expectations.

  • What size would you like your painting to be?
  • Do you feel strongly that certain colors or shades of color should be included in the painting? If so be sure to let the artist know.
  • What is your budget? Be honest with yourself and the artist. If your budget is tight let the artist know. He or she may be able to work with you to let you know how to decrease your costs.
  • What is your deadline?

If the painting is a portrait or of an object, make available photographs of the subject to help the artist determine the level of detail needed. This will also enable the artist to give a better estimate.

What is your deadline for the completed work?  The specific details and timing of the commission request will determine the length of time required to complete your painting.  A smaller painting may take several weeks; a painting over 20″ may take a month or more.

3. Quote given to the client

I will give you a quote for the final painting. The quote is an in-depth explanation of what you should expect and will receive as an end product. The quote also includes the cost, which varies for each piece.

4. First payment due & painting begins

After accepting the quote, a down payment will be paid and work will begin on the painting.
If the painting is of a person able to model for the artist or an object that may not be left with the artist, a sitting will be scheduled. Several sittings may be requested by the artist to help produce the best possible end product. If the painting is of a person or object the artist cannot view in-person, please provide photos. I work mainly from photos. There are additional costs involved for arranging in-person sittings.

5. Client receives the painting & final payment due

Once the painting is complete, the final payment equal to the remaining amount of the quote is due to the artist and the finished artwork is given to the client after final payment.

Please understand that as a future member of my collector family you are very involved in my commissioning process.  Before sending your final invoice and shipping your painting, I will e-mail you an image of your commission for your approval.  In this way, you can be confident that you know what you have paid for.  Upon request, I will also e-mail you images of your art throughout the process.  Rest assured you will be involved every step of the way.
I hope this outline provides some insight into my art commissioning process.  And if you have questions, please ask.  I am always available.

Let’s Get Started!

If you are ready to commission your own painting, please contact me.