Commissioning An Artist

Things To Understand and Expect
When Commissioning An Artist

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".