How do I commission an artwork from an artist? It seems risky! 

Let’s take this buying art business to the next level. Commissioning a piece of art from an artist!

I have personally commissioned pieces for my home and have helped facilitate a number of commissioned work for private clients. There are some key steps in making process a smooth and successful one. There may be more risk in getting something commissioned but the reward is huge, there is nothing like having a personal story related to the artwork and the artist.

1. Ask! 

Not all artists will do commissions but that said it never hurts to ask an artist that you love their work. Also, you should expect to pay more for a commission artwork. To be honest this makes a lot of sense, as an artist when I take on a commission it is double to triple the amount of work than creating something on my own. There is a lot of back and forth with the client and the nerves that are involved are huge, is this what they were thinking?! We gotta deliver! 

2. Know what you want. 

When you are reaching out to the artist make sure you do your homework. Do not ask an artist to create a piece in a style they do not typically work in. Many artists are multi-talented and can create different styles BUT there are so many artists in the world better to pick one that the style is their speciality. It can get very complicated if an artist is trying to create a wonderful piece for you AND learning new techniques as well. Get the best of what they do which already their personal style and voice.

As you begin communication about your piece the best thing to do is include pictures of the artists artwork that you just love and explain why. Is it the dark swoops, the texture, the figures’ pose? Don’t worry about sounding arty just by very specific about what it is that draws you to each piece and explain what you are looking for. Be very very specific and articulate this early on!! This is the key to success in this process. The easiest and best commissions are based on an artwork that has already sold or is the wrong size and the client is looking for another to be created or altered a little.

Another scenario that has worked for me is choosing an artist that you basically love everything they do and asking them to create something based on a theme, poem, story or personal memory. In this case you must give up creative control and let the artist work but this one can be extremely meaningful but you must not have secret expectations for the finished product!! Hard not to!

Make sure you are honest with artist and more importantly with yourself! Communication is key!

3. Money, honey! 

As we talked about in the “How To Buy Art” resource, most artists price by square inch. It is important to have a general sense of the artists prices so you know what to expect. You can say upfront what your budget is and ask what size they are able to afford or you can explain the size you need and ask for pricing. 

You will need to put down a 50% deposit to get the process going. Never ask for sketches or mock ups before. The artist needs to be paid for their time and once the commitment is there then you can ask for a mock up if you feel it is necessary.

Here are a few pieces I have commissioned in the past: 

The key things to remember artists are humans that love making things, so don’t be afraid to ask for a commission. When commissioning artwork there is more risk as you don’t see the finished product before you buy it but with great communication, sample images of what you like of their work and some faith in the process the reward is HUGE. My commission artworks are literally my treasures as they represent different times in my life and the different artists I have met and worked with.

Enjoy the process!

xo jamie

PS: I created a whole class all about hanging art in your home. Take the class for free with using this special link- click here!

More Resources…