So you’ve found an artist whose work you LOVE and you want to commission the artist to create a piece of work especially for you. How exciting!! But you don’t know where to start. If you’ve never done it before, commissioning an original work by an artist can be intimidating ( for you and the artist! ). So here are a few guidelines on how to commission artwork that I hope will help when you’re ready to take the plunge!
1 | know the artist, know yourself
As enticing as it might be to instantly fall in love with an artist’s work and immediately set off on commissioning them, you’ll be better off slowing down a bit. Take some time to really get to know the artist’s work, their palette, style, medium, what you love about it, ask yourself if living with a piece of this artist’s work will make you happy forever and ever.
Once you’ve done that, figure out what you want. If you’re commissioning for a specific location, figure out what size would work best ( often an artist can help guide you if you’re uncertain ). Do you prefer a work on canvas or paper or another substrate? Maybe the artist works in a few different styles like our Featured Artist, Erin McIntosh. If so, determine which style you’d like your commission to follow. And then there’s the most fun decision of all– palette. What colors would you like to see incorporated? Is there a certain palette the artist works within that you love? Collect fabrics, paint samples, photos, anything the artist can use for reference and guidance. Help the artist by creating a vision of what you’re expecting.
2 | communicate what you want
Reach out to the artist first and find out if a| they are accepting commissions, b| what their current lead time might be, and c| the price for a commission in the size you’re desiring. It’s possible that the answer to any of these questions might mean putting off the commission until the artist has time or you have the necessary funds ( though always ask about payment options– many artists will work with a payment plan! ).
Once those basics are agreed upon, chat with the artist via phone or email about your expectations ( email is best, so you both have a record of what was discussed ) . Share all the visual references you can, use as many descriptive phrases as you can– like happy, serene, intense, organic, bright, light, etc. Give the artist your specifics regarding size, substrate and style and be sure to include information like where the piece will hang, who it is for ( if a gift ), if the work will commemorate a special occasion, etc. All these elements will help guide an artist into creating a work of art that fits your vision.
3 | expect a written agreement
Once you and the artist have communicated fully your exact needs and expectations and agreed upon a price and lead time, the artist should provide you with a written statement of what is to be done, including all specifics regarding price, size, substrate, palette, shipping arrangements if not local, deposit and payment arrangements, etc. for your approval and acceptance. This step protects both your interests and the artists, certifying that both parties understand what is expected of each other.
4 | don’t mistake an artist for a machine
Let’s say you’ve commissioned an original based on another existing but unavailable work by the same artist. Same style, same substrate, same palette, same everything. But don’t expect an exact replica of that piece you loved. An original piece of artwork is a completely unique undertaking, each piece will have its own personality. Just like a snowflake, no two are exactly alike. On the other hand, if you receive progress photos from the artist and things don’t seem to be going in the direction you’d specified either stylistically or palette-wise, don’t be afraid to communicate your concern to the artist. They want you to be happy with your finished piece, so your feedback will be necessary and appreciated.
5 | be patient, be available
You’ve paid your deposit and the artist has given you a lead time. Now just sit back and wait. I know it’s hard!! We live in such an instant gratification society, we want what we want and we want it NOW. But creating an original work of art takes time and the artist may have other projects due to be completed before yours. It will be done, just be patient. And be available if the artist has questions, wants your input or needs your opinion. ( see #4 ).
featured artist Erin McIntosh in her studio
6 | accept your finished piece with grace and thanks
Wham, bam, thank you ma’am is no way to finish off commissioning a piece of artwork. Yes, you’ve paid the artist, but said artist has put a tremendous amount of time, creative energy and spirit into your creation. A heartfelt, gracious thank you goes a long way! And helping spread the word about your beautiful new work of art and lovely commissioning experience will support and encourage the artist’s career and soul.
Now all that’s left to do is to live with and love your work of art for always!
See more from our March Featured Artist, Erin McIntosh, on her website and on the Artsy Forager Facebook page.
All images via Erin McIntosh on Facebook.
