Commissioning An Artist

Things To Understand and Expect
When Commissioning An Artist

The decision to live with art is a decision to live with things of enduring value. Art of any size or
type should enrich your life and your environment with it's silent, strength of presence and it's
unique beauty and imagination. Remembering that art is totally appreciated differently by
every individual, you should select an artist that is willing to show you her portfolio or work
with you on your personal commission. Commissioning work can be much different from
buying a piece of art from a store or gallery that you think will look wonderful in your home.
Many people have no idea what to expect when thinking about inviting an artist into their
home to create a one-of-a-kind work of art. For this reason, JG Designs has created (with the
help of The Guild Sourcebook) some important guidelines to help you understand the creative
process and what you can expect from a commissioning process. The following is a brief
outline of Simple Guidelines to follow when choosing an artist.

1.   Talk with people you may know that have commissioned artists for commissions
similar to yours, visit artists' studios, look art that you like so you have a frame of reference
when you meet an artist, talk with candidates in person. In talking with an artist, get a feel
for the chemistry between you and if you feel comfortable in expressing your desires, getting a
sense if you would feel comfortable in a working relationship. Will your needs be a major or
minor concern to the artist? Evaluate the artist's style, approach, and personality. Ask for
references if you don't know anyone that has worked with the artist before. Have an idea of
what you want, but be open to suggestions from the artist, who has seen many different
instances of this kind and is able to make the best use of your space for the project. But don't
allow yourself to be bamboozled into something you don't want.
2.   Expect Professionalism. Most artists charge a design fee, ask for sketches if you feel
the need for specifics. Discuss budget and timetable and any other details needed to go into a
contract. Derail misunderstandings before they happen.
3.    The Contract: Put It In Writing. Contracts should be specific to the job. Know who is
responsible for what and when. If you are clear before the signing of the contract, you will be
able to know what to expect from the artist and the artist will know what to expect as
payment.
4.    Payment Schedule. With larger projects, payments are usually tied to specific
milestones. Payment is customarily made in three stages, although this too depends on
circumstances, scope, and complexity of the project.

Excerpts taken from "The Guild Sourcebook of Artists".