How to Commission A Painting

I know many artists who wouldn't ever do a commission. They have in the past, and they really didn't enjoy the experience. Here are some of the reasons I heard:

• The client can be so picky and hard to please
• We never have the same idea in mind so the process is frustrating
• I don't like to take direction when I create
• It usually isn't something that I actually want to do, so it is a painful process
• I don't usually charge enough and the process isn't worth it

On the other side, many art lovers are afraid to commission paintings and here are their reasons:

• What if I don't like it in the end?
• What if I change my mind after I see it?
• How do I properly describe what I am looking for?
• How do I negotiate price?
• What if the artist takes longer than they promised?
• What if the artist disappears or doesn't deliver the work at all?

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These can all be true! Commissions are difficult - they require some careful communication and negotiation. Don't be afraid to ask for the amount of money you need to do the project, and if you are a client- don't be afraid to negotiate.

I have done a few commissions over the years. I look forward to doing a multiple painting commission project one day! Here is the process that has helped me:
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1. Ask the potential client what paintings of yours they like and what they like about them. Take some time to get specific so you can see that the client understands your work and they actually want something very similar! I was on the phone with this client and we talked while he was looking at my website.
   1. Client - make sure you have studied the artist's work!
2. Ask them to describe the painting they hope you can create for them. What feeling are they after? What is the reason for the painting? Where will it be hanging? This was a painting for his wife and it was where they had their first dates - romantic! He wanted to capture that time - at night, in late fall
   1. Client - if you don't know specifics, then be ready for the client to take more liberty
3. Get details: size, subject, colours, finish (coating, framing, hanging). He had a specific spot for it and that determined the size.
4. Collect photos - yours or theirs. The client budgeted for me to go and take photos. This worked out well because I suggested a different view point then he originally had in mind.
   1. If the commission is in reference to a real place or person.
5. Do some sketches and send them to the client. Make sure you are both on the same page. Listen to any concerns they might have and talk about them. 
   1. Client - look at the sketches and ask questions if you have any. This is the time to make changes, not later once the painting has begun.
6. Do the painting and send updates to the client in terms you both agree on - it is great when the client is positive and encouraging!
   1. Client - be positive and encouraging - nothing slows an artist down like criticism. Ask questions if you aren't sure of the direction.
7. Before I sealed the painting with Resin, I sent a photo to the client. I would hate to make any changes, but it would be impossible after the final coating.
   1. Client - this isn't the time for any big changes, but perhaps a small detail or two
8. Charge enough for your time and energy! Commissions are more expensive because it is a collaborative process. It takes some energy and time to make sure you capture what the client has in mind. 
   1. Client - be prepared to love your piece forever and to reward the artist for their hard work and attention to your needs.

Here is a glimpse into how I created this painting: