Art Commissions Guide: Everything Artists Need to Know About Commissioned Artwork

 

Commissioned painting is a process where an artist is hired to create a painting for a specific client or purpose. 

The process of art commissioning typically begins with the client discussing their vision or concept with the artist. This includes details such as the type of art, the size of the piece, the materials to be used, the timeline for completion and of course, the budget. Once the artist and the client agree on these details, the artist will begin the creation process, keeping the client updated on the progress and making any necessary changes or adjustments as needed.

Art commissions can be for a wide variety of art forms, including but not limited to painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media. They can also vary in scale, from small pieces for private collections to large-scale public installations.

One of the biggest advantages of art commissions is that they allow clients to own a unique and one-of-a-kind piece of art that is specifically tailored to their preferences and needs. This is especially valuable for businesses and public spaces, as it can create a distinct and memorable atmosphere that sets them apart from their competition.

Art commissions can also provide artists with a steady income and the opportunity to showcase their skills and creativity in a meaningful way. They allow artists to challenge themselves, try new techniques and explore new themes and ideas.

There are several subcategories of commissioned paintings, including portraits, landscapes, still life, abstract, and mural paintings. Each of these subcategories has its unique set of considerations that artists need to keep in mind when creating a commissioned painting.

Portrait paintings, for example, require artists to capture the likeness and personality of the subject. This involves paying attention to details such as facial features, posture, and expression, as well as understanding the client's preferences for the painting's mood and style.

Landscape paintings, on the other hand, require artists to capture the essence of a particular place or scene. This involves understanding the client's vision for the painting, such as the specific location, time of day, and atmosphere.

Still life paintings involve arranging and painting objects such as flowers, fruits, or household items. Artists creating still life paintings need to consider factors such as composition, lighting, and the arrangement of the objects.

Abstract paintings are a unique subcategory that allows artists to experiment with form, color, and texture. Artists creating abstract commissioned paintings need to understand the client's preferences for the painting's style and mood, as well as how the painting will be displayed.

Mural paintings involve painting large-scale works on walls or other surfaces. Artists creating mural commissioned paintings need to consider factors such as the size and location of the mural, as well as any logistical considerations such as scaffolding or safety concerns.

Regardless of the subcategory, artists creating commissioned paintings need to have a clear understanding of the client's vision and communicate regularly to ensure that the painting meets their expectations. They also need to consider factors such as the painting's size, medium, and style, as well as any logistical considerations such as shipping or installation.

Overall, commissioned painting is a collaborative process between the artist and the client that requires attention to detail, strong communication skills, and an understanding of the painting's purpose and context.

 

Now, let's take a look at important aspects that artists need to consider when taking on a commissioned painting.

Let me break it down for you in a way that's easy to understand!

 

 

I. What is Commissioned painting

 

Commissioned painting refers to a process where an artist is hired to create a painting for a specific client or purpose. The painting may be a portrait, landscape, still life, abstract, or mural painting, and each category has its unique set of considerations that artists need to keep in mind when creating a commissioned painting.

Commissioned paintings are essential because they enable clients to obtain personalized, one-of-a-kind art pieces that meet their unique needs and preferences. Moreover, commissioned paintings help artists build a name for themselves, increase their exposure, and create lasting relationships with clients.

 

 

II. Finding a commission

 

For artists, finding a commission can seem overwhelming, especially if you're new to the art industry. But there are a few ways you can go about finding commissions:

Networking and advertising is a great way to get your name out there. This means going to events, joining art groups, and creating an online presence where you can showcase your work. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter are perfect for this because you can connect with potential clients and show off your art.

Working with galleries and agents is another way to find commissions. Galleries and agents can help connect you with clients who are interested in commissioning art. They can also help you get exposure and build your career.

Finally, you can respond to requests for proposals (RFPs). This means that businesses, organizations, or individuals are looking for artists to create commissioned art. To respond to an RFP, you need to have a clear understanding of what the client wants and be able to communicate your proposal effectively.

Overall, there are many ways to find commissions. By networking, working with galleries and agents, and responding to RFPs, you can build your career as an artist and find the perfect project for you.

 

By the way, RFP stands for "request for proposals". It's a way for businesses, organizations, or individuals to ask artists to create commissioned art. Basically, the client will send out a request for proposals, outlining what they're looking for in the commissioned artwork. Then, artists can respond to the RFP by submitting a proposal that explains how they would create the artwork and how much it would cost. The client will then choose the artist whose proposal best meets their needs.

 

 

 

 

 

 

III. Negotiating the commission

 

When you're working on a project, it's important to figure out what exactly needs to be done. That's what we mean by "determining the scope of the project". Once you know what needs to be done, you can figure out how much it will cost and when you'll get paid. This is called "agreeing on the budget and payment schedule". And finally, you'll want to write down all of the details in a contract, so that everyone is on the same page. So let’s take a look at it in details:

Negotiating the commission is an important step in the painting process because it sets the foundation for the entire project. Here are some more details on what this step entails:

Determining the scope of the project means figuring out exactly what the client wants you to paint. This could include things like the subject matter, size of the painting, medium to be used, and any special requests or requirements. It's important to have a clear understanding of what's expected of you before you start working on the painting.

Agreeing on the budget and payment schedule is the next step. This can be a bit tricky, but it's important to make sure that you're getting paid fairly for your work. You'll need to figure out how much the painting will cost to create, taking into account things like the cost of materials and the time it will take to complete the project. Then, you'll need to come to an agreement with the client on the amount they'll pay and when they'll pay it.

It's also important to think about things like any revisions or changes that may need to be made to the painting. If the client asks for changes to be made, you'll need to figure out how to handle these requests and whether they'll affect the cost of the painting.

Once you've agreed on the scope of the project, the budget, and the payment schedule, it's time to put everything in writing. A contract is a legally binding agreement between you and the client that outlines all of the details of the project. This can include things like the scope of the project, the budget, the payment schedule, any revisions or changes that may need to be made, and any other terms and conditions that you and the client agree on.

Having a contract is important because it protects both you and the client. It ensures that everyone is on the same page and understands exactly what's expected of them. If there are any disagreements or issues that arise during the project, you can refer back to the contract for guidance.

 

In addition to negotiating the scope of the project, budget, and payment schedule, some artists may choose to require a deposit or partial payment before beginning work on the commission. This is often done to ensure that the client is serious about the project and committed to seeing it through.

By requiring a deposit or partial payment, the artist can protect themselves from clients who may back out of the project or fail to pay once the work is complete. It can also help to cover the cost of materials and other expenses associated with the project.

The amount of the deposit or partial payment will vary depending on the artist and the project, but it's typically a percentage of the total cost of the commission. This amount is agreed upon during the negotiation process and is outlined in the contract.

It's important to note that the deposit or partial payment is not an additional fee, but rather a portion of the total cost of the project. Once the work is complete and the final payment has been made, the deposit or partial payment is applied towards the total cost of the project.

Overall, requiring a deposit or partial payment can be a smart business decision for artists who want to protect themselves and their work. By doing so, they can ensure that clients are serious about the project and committed to seeing it through to completion.

In summary, negotiating the commission is an important step in the painting process. It involves determining the scope of the project, agreeing on the budget and payment schedule, and putting everything in writing in a contract. By taking the time to negotiate the commission properly, you can ensure that the project runs smoothly and that you and the client are both satisfied with the final result.

 

 

 

 

 

 

IV. Understanding the client's needs

 

When you're working with a client, it's important to talk to them and find out what they want. This means getting all of the information you can about what they're looking for, and making sure you understand what they need. You'll also want to figure out what they expect from you, so that you can make sure you're meeting their needs.

Overall, the key is to communicate clearly and make sure everyone knows what's going on. That way, you can create a successful project that meets the needs of your client. So let’s move forward and look at some details of this part of the commissioned painting.

When a client approaches you for a commission piece, it's important to ask the right questions to fully understand what they want.

This can include questions like:

 

About art style:

Are there any particular art styles or movements that you enjoy or would like to see incorporated in the painting?

Would you prefer a realistic, impressionistic, or abstract style for the painting?

Are there any specific artists or artworks that you admire or that have influenced your taste in art?

Do you prefer a realistic or abstract style for the piece?

Is there a particular subject matter or image that you would like to see in the artwork?

What is your favorite art movement or style?

What inspired you to commission this piece?

What type of artwork are you drawn to?

Do you prefer a horizontal or vertical orientation for the piece?

Are there any additional details or elements that you would like to incorporate into the piece?

Where do you plan to display the piece?

Do you have any particular composition preferences for the piece?

 

About time frame:

Do you have a specific deadline in mind for the completion of the painting?

How long are you willing to wait for the painting to be completed?

Are there any particular events or occasions that you want the painting to be ready for?

 

About giving references:

Do you have any reference images or artwork that you would like me to use as inspiration for the piece?

Are there any particular elements or themes from the reference images that you would like to see in the painting?

Do you have any reference images that you absolutely don't want to see in the painting?

 

About communication and budget:

What is your budget for the commission?

How often would you like to communicate during the process of creating the painting?

Would you prefer updates through email, phone, or in-person meetings?

Are there any specific milestones or checkpoints in the process that you would like to be involved in or informed about?

 

About color:

Are there any specific colors or color combinations that you absolutely love?

Are there any colors that you dislike or want to avoid in the painting?

Would you like the painting to have a bright, bold color palette or a more subdued and muted one?

Do you prefer high contrast or low contrast in your color choices?

What is the mood or feeling you want the piece to convey?

What emotions or feelings do you want the artwork to evoke in the viewer?

 

 

About size:

What is the ideal size of the artwork for you?

Do you want the piece to be small and intimate or large and impactful?

How much wall space do you have to accommodate the painting?

 

About medium:

Do you have any preferences for a particular medium or material for the artwork?

Are there any mediums that you would like to avoid or that you have a preference for?

Are you open to mixed media or a combination of different materials in the painting?

 

 

 

 

V. Preparing for the painting

 

Researching and sketching: Before starting a painting, it's important to do some research on the subject you want to paint. This could include looking at reference photos, visiting a location, or studying the subject matter. Sketching can also be a helpful way to work out composition and form. This can help you plan out your painting and ensure you have a solid foundation to build on.

Choosing materials: Selecting the right materials is essential for a successful painting. If the client is unsure about what kind of medium to use for their commission, then it's up to you to decide on the type of paint, canvas or paper, brushes, and other tools that will work best for the project. The quality of materials can also make a big difference in the final result of your painting. So now let's move on to creating the painting.

 

 

 

 

 

 

VI. Creating the painting

 

Following a timeline and schedule: Depending on the size and complexity of the painting, it can be helpful to create a timeline and schedule to keep you on track. This can help you break down the painting process into manageable steps and ensure that you finish your project on time.

Keeping the client updated on progress: If you're creating a painting for a client, it's important to keep them updated on the progress of the painting. This can help them feel involved in the process and ensure that the final result meets their expectations.

Addressing any issues or concerns: Finally, it's important to address any issues or concerns that come up during the painting process. This could include making changes to the composition or colors, or addressing any technical difficulties that arise. Being able to problem-solve and adjust your approach as needed is an important part of creating a successful painting.

 

 

 

 

 

VII. Delivery and final touches

 

Let's talk about the final steps of the painting process. Once your painting is complete, there are a few more things to do before you can deliver it to your client.

First up is packaging and shipping the painting. You want to make sure your painting is well-protected during transport to avoid any damage. This means using appropriate packaging materials, such as bubble wrap and sturdy boxes, and labeling the package clearly. Shipping can be a bit tricky, so make sure to research the best shipping options for your painting's size and destination.

Once the painting has arrived safely, it's time for final touches and framing. Sometimes, even after a painting is complete, there are small areas that could benefit from a touch-up. Maybe there's a tiny smudge or a missed spot that needs some attention. It's important to take care of these final details to ensure that the painting is flawless.

Framing is also an important step in the process. It can add a finishing touch to the painting and protect it from dust, dirt, and other environmental factors. There are many different framing options available, so choose one that complements the style of the painting and enhances its overall appearance.

 

Finally, it's time to obtain feedback from the client. This step is essential because it helps you understand what the client liked about the painting and if there were any areas they were not completely satisfied with. It's important to listen carefully to the client's feedback, even if it's not entirely positive. Use this feedback to improve your work and create even better paintings in the future.

In summary, delivery and final touches are the last steps in the painting process, but they are just as important as the other steps. Packaging and shipping the painting, touching up and framing, and obtaining feedback from the client can make a big difference in the final result and the satisfaction of your client. So take your time, pay attention to the details, and enjoy the feeling of delivering a beautiful, finished painting!

 

 

 

 

What to do if the client is not satisfied with the result

Please pay attention to this part of the process. Sometimes, even with the best of intentions, the client may not be completely satisfied with the final outcome of the art commission. In such a situation, it's important to have a plan in place to address the issue and find a solution that works for everyone involved.

First of all, it's important to have open and honest communication with the client throughout the entire process to avoid any major surprises or misunderstandings at the end. This way, you can address any concerns or issues as they come up, instead of waiting until the end when it might be too late to make any significant changes.

If the client is unhappy with the final results of the art commission, the first step is to listen to their concerns and try to understand what specifically they are unhappy with. This will help you determine whether or not the issue is something that can be fixed, and if so, what steps you need to take to make it right.

If the issue is something that can be fixed, you may need to make some changes or adjustments to the painting to better meet the client's needs and expectations. This might mean making some small tweaks, or it could mean starting over from scratch, depending on the severity of the issue.

If the issue cannot be fixed or if the client is still unhappy even after you've made changes, then you may need to consider offering a refund or some other form of compensation. This can be a tough pill to swallow, but it's important to remember that your reputation as an artist is on the line, and you want to do everything you can to make sure the client is satisfied with the final result.

The bottom line is that you want to do everything you can to ensure that the client is happy with the final results of the art commission. This means having clear communication, being open to feedback, and being willing to make changes and adjustments as needed to create a final product that the client is happy with.

 

 

 

 

 

 

VIII. The final thoughts

 

When it comes to creating commissioned paintings, communication and professionalism are key to ensuring a successful project. It's important to stay in touch with the client throughout the entire process, from the initial negotiation to the final delivery of the painting. This helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that the project stays on track.

Being professional means treating the project as a serious business endeavor and delivering high-quality work on time and within budget. It also means being responsive to the client's needs and concerns, and addressing any issues or questions in a timely and respectful manner.

One of the coolest things about making commissioned paintings is that you get to work on unique and interesting projects that you might not get to do otherwise. You also get to work directly with the client to create something that is tailored to their specific needs and preferences. This can be a really rewarding experience for both the artist and the client.

However, creating commissioned paintings can come with its fair share of challenges as well. One challenge might be managing client expectations and ensuring that they understand the process and timeline for creating the painting. This requires clear communication and transparency on the part of the artist.

Another challenge can be striking the right balance between your own creative vision and the client's needs. Sometimes you might have to make compromises or adjustments to make the client happy, and that can be tough. However, with good communication and collaboration, it's possible to create something that both you and the client are happy with.

Overall, making commissioned paintings can be a really rewarding experience if approached with professionalism, clear communication, and a willingness to be flexible in order to meet the client's needs. Just remember to always treat the client with respect and keep them in the loop throughout the entire process.

 

I hope you enjoyed this article and found it informative!

Do you have any thoughts or experiences to share on this topic?

I would love to hear from you, so please don't hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback and insights are valuable to me and our community, I look forward to hearing from you!

 

Good luck !

Sincerely,

Marisol