5 Step Guide on How to Commission Art
5 Step Guide on How to Commission Art
1. Find the Right Artist
Finding an artists style that you love and one that will fit in with your idea is essential to commissioning art. Take a look at artists websites and social media to get a good idea of their work and style. Research the materials they use. Is there a particular piece or style they have drawn in, that you love? Look for prices on the artist’s website and see if this will work within your budget, remembering that original art will cost more than the price of prints or reproductions.
Top Tips
- Provide initial details about the piece of art you’d like to commission.
- Do not request an artist to work in a style that is different to theirs or to copy another artists work.
2. Get in Touch
It is worth getting in contact to see if the artist is open for commissions. Many artists can be contacted via their website, email or social media. Mention the type and subject of art you’d like, with an example of the piece or style that caught your eye.
Top Tips
- Clearly describe what you want to commission, using any references you may have.
- Be mindful that what you are suggesting, may not be something the artist is able to take on, or they might be fully booked.
3. Create a Brief & Contract
It’s best not to wait until the work has started to discuss the details! Confirm the size, medium and technique, subject matter, price, payment and timeline upfront. Nail down any details that are important to include in the art piece, supplying reference where appropriate.
The artist is likely to create a written brief and contract, that both parties agree on and will clearly state all the discussed details including any deadlines.
To save disappointment this is an essential part of the commission process and a reliable way to avoid any confusion. Commonly artists will have a formal contract process in place. This is to ensure the process of commissioning an artwork remains professional and sets clear expectations for both the artist and the buyer.
Top Tips
- Be clear with your brief and don’t assume the artist knows what your’re thinking.
- Communicate throughout the commission. Decide whether you’d like to see initial sketches and be a part of the process. This can save any unwanted surprises at the end.
- Ask whether revisions or changes are possible with the art process. Be mindful that some art techniques can not be changed.
- Discuss what’s included in the price and how and when to pay.
- Agree deadlines.
- Ask for a Certificate of Authenticity, signed and dated by the artist.
Check out the blog from JOKstudios on 'What is a Certificate of Authenticity' (See below)
4. Copyright
Artists will have copyright of their artwork by default. Should the artwork be used for commercial or licensing then a separate contract needs to be agreed upon.
Top Tips
- Ask the artist if you are unclear about anything.
- Always seek permission if you’d like to use the art in any areas not originally agreed.
5. Final Delivery
Establish how your art will be delivered (this may have been agreed during the brief & contract process) and work out where you're going to put it up!
Top Tips
- Let the artist know you’ve received your art and how much you love it!
- Learn how to best look after your original art.
Check out the blog from JOKstudios on 'How to look after your original Art' (See below)
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