To some it may be obvious but let’s cover the basics – what is a commission. An art commission refers to a client paying an artist to create a custom work of art. Typically, this means that the artist will be making a piece for the client’s personal collection, but it can also be for a special event, business, corporate collection, museum, or other institution.
I’ll focus on commissions for personal collection. An example of my response to a commission enquiry will give you a better idea of how the process works and what needs to be considered and agreed. I chose a commission of a golfer figure.
Approach: In my sports paintings, I focus on the energy and movement of the characters. Though I can work from a photo, a video footage works better for this particular subject…I can study the movement and choose an interesting moment and composition. Good light is important and a footage from sunny or a light day would be a great help.
Style and Colour: What style appeals to you and are there any particular paintings of mine you find compelling? I typically work with a fresh but limited colour palette or in monochrome. Is there a particular colour preference you’d like me to consider?
Size: Movement pieces in watercolour work well on sizes 28 x 38 cm or larger. Please confirm what size and format suits you (portrait, landscape or square).
Pricing: My commissions start from £____ per painting (that applies for the above mentioned size or similar). Considerable savings can be made when commissioning multiple paintings.
The price includes painting on paper, an archival backing board, clear sleeve and a secure packaging, ready for posting. Postage within the UK is included in the price. International postage depends on the destination. Typically, within Europe the postage is £30 and outside Europe ca £60.
Payment: Online transfer to my business account. 50 % is payable in advance and 50% upon completion. I’ll send over the photos of the finished piece for approval prior to posting.
Timing: Allow for a week for the painting and a week for delivery. The process can be expedited, should there be a need.
Framing or mounting is available upon request at additional cost. I’m happy to suggest framing options that would suit the piece and places where to source them.
Authentication: The works come signed on the front and with a Certificate of Authenticity attached to the back.
So much for the bones but as for the details each commission is individual to the personal preferences of a client.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact me via the website or drop me a line to [email protected]
Client review:
Shot Tower – Crane Nature Reserve, commission art by Zuzana Edwards
“Having been gifted ‘a piece of art of my choice’ for my birthday, Zuzana’s work was among the first I thought to look through. Being an existing owner of her work, I was keen to add to my collection. I was looking for something specific and meaningful so decided to go down the route of a commission.
Talking to Zuzana about what I was looking for was easy and the process felt very natural – specifying a subject, thoughts on what to include in the composition and painting style were all discussed. I was amazed when two absolutely stunning options came through on email less than 8 days after my initial request! Framing and postage were then discussed and arranged meaning I would have a completely finished piece
I’m so happy with the painting and feel as though Zuzana has captured the beauty and mystery of the Shot Tower and how it stands confidently among the lushness of Crane Park. A perfect way to mark my 40th birthday that will be cherished and enjoyed for years to come. Thank you Zuzana!”
-Sukh, art collector-