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. Simply click the Contact button on my website’s home page, above my picture in the left hand column.
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, you may e-mail images. Keep in mind that colors on computer monitors vary, so if the color match must be exact, mailing color swatches is your best bet. Do you want an acrylic painting or mixed media painting? Are you looking at a certain price point or 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 smaller painting may take several weeks; a painting over 20″ may take a month or more.
4. Pricing. Pricing depends on the size of the art, the medium (acrylic vs. mixed media), and the style (is it a loose abstract or highly detailed realism?) By looking through my online gallery at other paintings in a size and medium 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 require a 25% down payment on all commissions. Once you have approved the contract, I will e-mail you an invoice for 25% of the cost of the commission via PayPal. Once the payment clears, you will be booked into my commission schedule. You have a grace period up to but not including the date I have booked to begin your commission to cancel your contract and 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. Please be sure to measure your space to guarantee a perfect fit.
Please understand that as a future member of my collector family you are very involved in my commissioning process. Before sending your final invoice and 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 have paid for. Upon request, I will also e-mail you images of your art throughout the process. Rest assured you will be involved every step of the way.
I hope this outline provides some insight into my art commissioning process. And if you have questions, please ask. I am always available. You may also wish to check out this blog post “Fine Art Painting: A Walk Through The Commission Process.”