5 Tips Before You Commission an Artist
The Art of Commissioning: Five things you want to know before you commission an artist
As we stride further into the new year, our aspirations and ambitions often come under sharper focus. Amongst these aims, perhaps you feel the desire to invest in a commissioned painting, either for yourself or as a cherished gift for a loved one. Yet, before embarking on this artistic journey, there are five crucial considerations to ponder.
As an artist who selectively undertakes commissions each year, I frequently initiate this process with a simple conversation—a dialogue about the envisioned painting that the client wishes to see materialize. However, many individuals harbour understandable hesitations and uncertainties. Questions like, "Will the artist share my enthusiasm for this concept?" or "Can they translate my vision onto canvas?" commonly linger in their minds.
Approaching an artist can indeed be intimidating, particularly if you're uncertain about your desired painting's specifics or concerned about the associated costs. However, fret not; here are my top five tips to bolster your confidence as you approach an artist and embark on the commissioning process:
1) Articulate your Vision
Before reaching out to an artist, take some time to articulate your vision for the commissioned piece. Consider the emotions you wish to evoke, the desired style or theme, and any particular elements you want to incorporate. Even if your ideas feel nebulous at first, expressing them clearly will provide a solid foundation for collaboration with the artist.
2) Research and Connect
Explore artists whose style align with your preferences. Look through their portfolios to gauge their expertise and artistic range. Are you attracted to their unique way of painting, how realistic or painterly it might be. The texture and brush strokes in their other works of a similar nature should already appeal to you. If you’re tempted to ask them to change how they paint then it means you should look for a different artist whose style is closer to your taste.
3) Communicate Freely
Communication is key throughout the commissioning process. Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek clarification, or share your timeline with the artist. A transparent and collaborative approach ensures that both parties are on the same page and helps refine the concept to better suit your vision.
Express how much you do or don’t want to be involved in the creative process and the artist will also tell you what they are comfortable with. Some artists enjoy a collaborative process whereas others acknowledge that they will do a better job if the majority of the painting is done with an opportunity for feedback at certain stages.
4) Budget
While bespoke artwork may seem extravagant, it's essential to establish a personal budget for your commission. Discuss pricing with the artist upfront, taking into account factors such as size, complexity, and materials. Remember that investing in a unique piece of art is a worthwhile endeavour, and many artists offer flexible payment options to accommodate varying budgets. For example- my commission payments are split into a 50% deposit with the remainder is paid upon completion which makes the process much smoother, giving confidence to both the artist and client.
5) Trust the Artist
Finally, trust in the expertise and creativity of the artist you've chosen to collaborate with. Remember that you're commissioning their unique talent and perspective to bring your vision to life. Embrace the process with an open mind, and allow room for the painter's artistic interpretation and expertise to shine through in the final masterpiece.
In conclusion, commissioning a painting is an enriching and deeply personal experience that allows you to own a one-of-a-kind piece of art tailored to your preferences. By following these five tips, you can navigate the commissioning process with confidence, ensuring a rewarding collaboration with the artist and a timeless work of art that will be cherished for years to come.
Are you ready to embark on this artistic journey with me? I take pride in crafting bespoke paintings and am eager to bring your vision to life. With a limited number of commissions accepted each year, seize the opportunity to create something truly special. Send me a direct inquiry here, and let's begin the conversation today!