Commissioning a Painting--What To Expect

  Commissioning a piece of artwork from an artist can be a thrilling but intimidating experience.  Here I have outlined my commissioning process for GALLERY ZOO ART so both current and future collectors have an idea what to expect.

 

1.  Contact Me.  This one is easy.  Each of the websites I am listed on (Boundless Gallery, Etsy, Yessy, Fine Art America, and here) has a clickable link "Contact the Artist".  Or, you can simply cut/paste my address into an e-mail:  cjeltes@juno.com

 

2.  Describe as specifically as possible the art you want me to create.  These are the types of questions I will ask you:  Do you want a canvas painting or painting on yupo paper?  If on gallery-wrapped canvas (staples are on the back for frame-free display), how deep/thick do you want your edges--3/4" or 1.5"?  If on yupo paper, do you want a mat included?  What color?  Framed or unframed?  What size painting do you want?  What subject do you want in your painting?  What colors do you want in your painting?  If you want your painting to specifically match a color in your decor, I will require mailed swatches, as the colors on computer monitors vary.  Do you want an acrylic painting or mixed media painting?  Are you looking to stay in a certain price range/budget? 

 

3.  What is your deadline for the completed work?  The specific details and timing of the commission request will determine the length of time required to complete your painting.  A 5" x 7" art card normally takes a day or 2; a 20" x 24" mixed media work may take several weeks.

 

4.  Pricing.  Generally speaking, I do not charge any more for a commissioned piece than I do for one of my regular paintings.  (Highly detailed pieces, however, will cost more.)  A commissioned 5" x 7" art card painting is $15.00--the same price as any other art card.  By looking at my other paintings in a size similar to what you want, you will have an idea about how much your commission will cost.

 

5.  Contract.   Once we negotiate the terms/details of your commission, I will e-mail you a contract outlining all that we have discussed for your approval.  Once you accept this contract...

 

6.  Down payment.  I do require a 25% down payment on all commissions.  Once you have approved the contract, I will book you into my commission schedule.  I will e-mail you an invoice for 25% of the cost of the commission via PayPal.  You have a grace period up to but not including the date I have booked to begin your commission to cancel to receive a full refund of your down payment.  After this period (ie. once I have started your commission), the down-payment is non-refundable.

 

7.  How do I pay?  I accept payments via PayPal.  PayPal enables you to pay by credit card, debit card, or bank account.  It is a secure site that allows you to pay without vendors having access to your financial information.  Opening a PayPal account is easy and free.  You will receive both your down payment invoice and your final invoice from me through PayPal.  After you pay your final invoice, I will ship your commission, fully insured for the purchase price.

 

8.  Do you accept returns on commissions?  No, I do not accept returns on commissioned paintings.  However, as a future member of my collector family you are very involved in my commissioning process.  Before sending your invoice and/or shipping your painting, I will e-mail you an image of your commission for your approval.  In this way, you can be confident that you know what you will be paying for.  I may also e-mail images throughout the process, depending upon the complexity of your commission.

 

I hope this outline provides some insight into my commissioning process.  And if you have questions, please ask.  I am always available.

 

Catherine