The Do’s and Don’ts of Creating Commissioned Artwork

The process of creating commissioned art is a beautiful way for artists and patrons to forge a special bond. It’s an opportunity for the artist to express their creative talents while also personalizing the piece for a particular individual. It’s a unique way for many artists to connect with their clients. However, it’s not always a straightforward affair, especially if you’ve never done it before. In order to make this a smooth process, there are many key lessons to keep in mind from the moment you consider a commission, all throughout the creation process, and right up to exchanging the finished piece.

Organize Payment Up Front

As excited as you may be to get going with a commission that gets the creative juices flowing, it’s important you get the practical matters sorted asap. Artists will vary on what percentage of the fee they take upfront, but at my own Unleashed Art Gallery, I take 50% upfront, signed on the day of the commission request. I don’t charge full price until the piece is completed and the owner is completely in love with their new artwork. Setting up these terms early means that both parties will stay invested until the end. Don’t assume terms, prices, and timelines will work out magically.

Know Exactly What the Client Wants

As nice as it would be to create something and have your customer fall in love with it, at first sight, the process of working with a commission isn’t that straightforward. The point of commissioning an artist rather than buying a finished piece is the customer wants to see their own dream piece of artwork come to life. It’s important you know exactly what the client wants from the get-go. A good idea might be to start with concepts or sketches for them to approve before you move too far into the project. But at the same time, they are entrusting their idea with you and expect you to use your creative flair.

Manage Expectations

For the benefit of both parties, it’s crucial that you ask the important questions at the beginning so you can spend your energy on the creative process. Both you and the client should be crystal clear about the creative direction of the piece so there are no surprises. Accepting feedback during the process will also make sure you are meeting the client’s expectations early on. Don’t say you can do something that isn’t within your area of expertise – to overpromise and underdeliver will ensure you don’t receive any recommendations from that client. And remember, be confident in your own abilities as an artist! You have been commissioned for a reason. And don’t forget to claim that beautiful work as your own with a signature of authenticity.

Keep in Touch

I bring the client into my process as much as possible by sending videos so they feel as connected to their commissioned artwork as I do. Stay in contact, and establish three to four points through the creation process where they can check in with the progress. This helps make it an overall more enjoyable experience for them. And crucially, stayed committed, professional, and kind to each of your precious clients who have entrusted you with their vision.

Practice Good Timing at Every Stage

Not only should you be upfront about the time it will take you to complete a piece, but you should show your clients that you are responsive and attentive throughout. As soon as you have a lead, follow up with the interested party and discuss options. Not everyone will be in a position to pay for art when they are interested, as it is a luxury after all. But take down their details and follow up as soon as you can. Once someone’s excitement to buy your art is gone, it’s hard to recreate that moment. And for those who do a commission for you, make sure you set a realistic time frame for completion and delivery. It should be a rewarding experience for the artist and an exciting wait for the customer, that shouldn’t be tainted by unrealistic promises.

Spot the Red Flags

While you can do everything to convince people that you are great to work with, your clients may not be the easiest customers. A hefty commission is always tempting to take on without a second thought, but you may save yourself a lot of problems by knowing when to say no to the wrong type of clients. It’s important that you look out for these red flags: someone who may be unwilling to pay a deposit, unwilling to pay your rates, whose brief is extremely complicated, and likely to result in multiple revisions. It’s a two-way working relationship, so don’t feel like you aren’t in control throughout the whole process. But, for every bad client, there are dozens of great ones who will make the creation experience a joy for you. Stick to your own rules and the process will be an enjoyable one for all parties.

Former LPGA golf professional turned art gallery owner and artist, Christie Smith uses her newfound love of creating art to foster human connection and inspire inner expression. During COVID-19 she has actually found ways to connect even more with her clients through commissioned pieces. She has found a way to leverage her engaged community and is creating now more than ever. Her process is a little different in that she does not charge until the piece is completed and the new owner is completely in love