The Commission Process

Note: The process outlined below is applicable to all commission types except for lockets, miniatures, and digital collages.

Understanding my commission process makes the experience more pleasant and productive for all parties. This process has four stages, each of which are marked by changes in the role of the client (you) and the artist (me).

Stage One

This stage is all about planning. After you send me an inquiry, I'll reach out to you with a quote or, if necessary, a request for more information. We'll talk about all the details of the work: the medium, the size, and any preferences you have in terms of color palette and overall feeling of the work. My goal is to obtain a clear understanding of your vision, as well as provide feedback and direction where appropriate. If you have a lot of ideas you'd like to share with me, we can collaborate on a Pinterest board or create a private Discord server to keep those ideas organized. Once all of that is solidified, I'll send you a contract to sign, and you'll send the contract back to me along with the deposit.

Outcome(s):

1. A signed contract outlining the specifics of the work

Example Contract:

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Stage Two

Next, I will collect all necessary reference material. You will likely provide some of this in the form of photos and videos, but under ideal circumstances, I will also take some of the photos and videos myself. (For more information on reference materials, visit this page.) Once I have all the material I need, I will create at least one study, mock-up, or sketch that is indicative of the final work. Unless you have opted out of this step, I will need your approval before moving forward. I might give you several options to choose from, or I might request feedback on a single image.

It is crucial that you give me as much honest feedback as possible at this stage. After the preparatory work has been approved, very little about the work can be changed.

Outcome(s):

1. Sufficient reference material
2. At least one preparatory study

Example Studies:

Stage Three

Now it's all on me! During this stage, I'll be hard at work executing the plan we established during stage one and two. I'll update you periodically with progress photos like the one below, and I'll let you know when input is needed. I may request feedback on matters such as the subject's likeness.

Outcome(s):

1. A nearly finished work of art

Stage Four

Once the work is finished, I'll present it to you for approval. If you approve the work, I'll ship or deliver it once I've received the remaining balance due.

If you are unhappy with the work, you may either:

1. Request any changes you'd like for an additional $55/hour, or
2. Refuse the artwork, in which case I keep both the work and the deposit.

Otherwise...

Congratulations! You're now the proud owner of a one-of-a-kind work of art. I love to see my art in its new home, so once you hang, frame, or wear your commissioned piece, please send me a photo or two.

Ready to start your commission? Click here.

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