Tips For Painting Commissions

The Wave (oil) 90cm x 65cm

The words "I would like to commission a painting" should be exciting to any artist. It is a compliment and a financial windfall. However commissions can go horribly wrong if the basics are not covered. Commissions are simply part of the artist's repetoire and come with their own unique challenges.

Here are a list of considerations for both artists and collectors:

Artists:

1. Do not be guided in your decision by money alone. Despite having the wolf camping outside your door it will not solve your problems if you accept a bad commission deal. You will only add to your troubles.
2. A commission is a relationship with a collector. It is not the trading of goods. The difference is huge and requires both parties to get to know each other. If this scares you then rather pass.
3. Communication is key. Ask the collector questions such as: the subject of the painting, what size the painting must be, where will it be displayed, framing requirements, which of your current works the collectors likes most. Also ask what the collector does not want. These will all give an indication of what the collector imagines your painting will look like. These basic questions will lead to more questions and clarity.
4. Personality Issues? Much as I would like to keep it all business it is not possible since painting has a strong emotional content for both parties. If there is a personality clash the whole deal will end badly. This can have a major negative effect on the artist's morale. Keep your eyes open for these issues early on so that you can pass on the job if uncomfortable.
5. Price:  This is often easily agreed upon, but needs to be sewn up properly. Put it in writing even if it is only recorded in emails with a written acceptance by the collector. Agree on price and a deposit (usually one-third up front nonrefundable). Negotiate if you must, but know in advance where your sticking point is. Do not undervalue yourself. Keep costs such as materials, delivery, framing and your time in mind. You do not want this to become a financial loss.
6. Progress: I like to keep collectors updated on progress. I do not send photos until near completion and finally upon completion. If the collector can view it in person then do a reveal and make it a fun occasion. It is at this point that you want to deliver and be paid in full too.
7. Payment: This is where things can get sticky. I suggest that delivery only take place once full payment is received. This is accepted practice, but you will find requests from collectors who want to take the painting on approval before making their mind up. Resist this as it can throw the entire deal into doubt. The painting is complete and you are entitled to full payment. Not payment in installments. Be strong!
8. Get Excited! Talk, share and have fun. Your vision and the collector's vision are beautiful things to talk about. Keep the entire process an enriching experience for both of you. 

Collectors:

1. Be Realistic: Unfortunately some art lovers are so moved by their favorite artist's work that they want a large painting or two. Both parties get caught up in the excitement of it all, but then price comes up and everything fizzles out. By having checked out the artist's other paintings and prices you will have an idea what the cost will be. Do some homework on this and it will help you negotiate without being embarassed. 
2. Know What You Want: Be prepared with the subject matter in mind. Reference photos in place and a good idea about size of the painting. Do not be shy about what you want painted and where it will be displayed. Yes we know that paintings need to match the decor sometimes. That is life.
3. Price: Without repeating myself be sure about the price and get this all confirmed in writing. Then stick to the deal.
4. Progress: Get an idea on duration of the project. Although things come up and there may be delays this should not add months to a project. Sometimes time is critical. Make this a point of the contract. Ask for updates, but do not nag the artist. Calls and texts every few hours will not help!
5. Have You Commissioned Work Before? Yes both artist and collector have track records. If you have commissioned art before then tell the artist. It will give the artist some comfort too. 
6. Share Your Vision: If you are new to the art world you may feel shy about opening up about your vision for the painting. Do not hold back. Artists should welcome your feelings as this will help them get into your psyche a bit. It will help with the painting as there is an emotional factor involved.
7. Any Issues Before Delivery? If there is a major issue with the completed project such as quality of work, materials or some departure from what was understood then try and resolve it amicably. Usually there would no be a big issue at such a late stage because each party did  their due dilligence. 

Commissions can be fun for artists and collectors. By taking a few common sense steps there should not be any problems, but rather the start of a beautiful relationship between artist and collector.

Any suggestions or points that you would like to add? Please leave a comment.