Commissioning an artist is simply defined as the act of employing an artist to create a work of art tailored to suit your personal needs or preferences. In other words, instead of buying a ready made piece of art, you get the artist to create a tailored piece of art for you.
Commissioned artworks include paintings, drawings, digital artworks and illustrations, portraits, sculptures, murals, and customized art for businesses. By commissioning art, you become actively involved in the creation of the art.
No More Boring Art Print by Barrie J Davies
Why Do People Commission Art?
People commission art because they want something personal and special to them, like a portrait of a family member, a special day or event in their life, or a memory they simply want to hold onto. Artists are also hired by businesses for professional services.
Artwork can include illustrations, murals, branding artwork, product illustrations, or decorative pieces for office and commercial interiors. Businesses use custom artwork to create a unique appearance and make their surroundings more attractive.
How Does the Art Commission Process Work?
Typically, the client and the artist begin with a conversation to determine what the project entails. This is the time to share what you are looking for and provide as much useful information as possible. Size, colors, mood, deadline, what you'll actually use the piece for once it's finished, all of that matters more than people expect going in. Most artists will ask if you leave something out, but it saves time on both ends if you come prepared.
A reference photo or sample may help the artist understand what you expect from the artwork.
After talking about the project, the artist gives a quote. This may depend on the size of the work, its intricacy, the materials used, detail, among other aspects that may affect the cost of the job.
After both have agreed on the price and all other aspects of the work, the artist starts doing the work in accordance with the terms set out. In some cases, the artist will send the client some sketches first.
What Should You Tell an Artist?
Once the initial conversation is done, the real work is making sure the artist actually understands your vision. Effective communication is one of the most important components of the process of art commissions. In seeking out an artist to work with, it would be best to know exactly what you want. Focus on being specific about subject and content, mood or feeling, colors, style, size, and background and key elements.
Use pictures or examples of the kind of artwork that you like to make it easier to provide your short explanation.
When ordering a portrait painting, you can ask for the painting to be realistic, to have a plain background and warm colors, and to be the desired size. The more you know about what you're looking for, the more likely the artist can produce a work of art you will be satisfied with.
That said, trust the artist's professional knowledge too. Most are happy to suggest small tweaks that make the final piece even better.
How Much Does Commissioned Art Cost?
The cost of commissioned art depends on the project. Prices vary based on the artist's experience, materials, complexity, size, timeline, and whether the work will be used commercially.
Simple digital illustrations often start under $100, while large, detailed traditional paintings can run into the thousands, though exact pricing depends heavily on the artist's experience and where they're based.
Before undertaking the project, obtain a definite quotation from the artist. Check what is included in the quoted price and whether there are extra fees for revisions, shipping, framing, or commercial uses.
What Are Revisions?
The changes that are suggested by the client during the artistic process are known as revisions. Some artists give a certain number of revisions, while some artists can charge extra if major changes are required.
Most first-time clients don't think to ask this, but find out early whether 'revisions' means unlimited small tweaks or a set number included in the price. That one question alone saves a lot of back and forth later. It is also worth establishing what constitutes a major change before the artist starts work. While it may not be difficult to change a color or a small detail in the painting, major changes when the work has almost been finished can take a lot of time.
Who Owns Commissioned Artwork?
Paying for an artwork doesn't automatically give you all rights. You may own the physical piece while the artist retains copyright unless your contract says otherwise.
This is particularly relevant for companies. If you are planning to use the artwork that will be commissioned by you for commercial use like advertisements, packaging, branding, website, social media, and more, then make sure copyright terms are spelled out clearly before work starts.
A written contract can benefit both parties to get an idea of what exactly the client will be purchasing.
How to Choose the Right Artist
Selecting the appropriate artist is a key step in the commissioning process. Review the artist's portfolio and check whether the artist's style suits your ideas.
Consider the quality and consistency of the artist's previous work. If you can find some reviews of the artist, try to read them to understand the experience of other clients working with the artist. Check the information about the commission process if it is provided.
It's worth saying, the most talented artist isn't always the best fit if their communication style doesn't match yours. Communication is no less important than previous works of the artist; even if the artist is very talented, the artist may still not suit you because of the commission process.
Discuss the project, cost, timeline, revisions, payments and usage rights with the artist before giving the artist the job.
Why Is Commissioned Art Special?
Commissioned art is individual because it is made just for you and not chosen from among the existing artworks. It may represent a character, celebrate an event, reflect an idea, or tell a story that cannot be told by using the usual artwork.
There is always a partnership between the client and artist. You give the concept and ideas, but the artist gives the knowledge and expertise in making the work of art.
Whether you're looking for artwork for your own walls, for a friend to give as a gift, for your company, or a specific space, art commissions enable you to get a unique item.
Talk it all through upfront, that's usually what makes or breaks the experience. But with the right artist and good communication, it could go smoothly.
Find out how to commission me to produce artwork for you.