Making individual artwork for customers is a good way to make extra cash and expand your portfolio as an artist -as long as the commission item doesn't become a lot more trouble than it's worth.
In contrast to artwork you create on your own, commissioned art is frequently subject to the wish of the buyer.
Things such as composition, color, as well as price can all become issues of contention between yourself and the individual commissioning you.
There's a means to prevent getting burnt on commissioned items: decide on everything in advance with the purchaser and - more importantly - put it in a contract that you both sign.
It may look totally obvious, but you will actually want to sit down and discuss the suggested artwork in extensive detail with the buyer.
This could happen one sitting, or over several days, weeks or months, as concepts are formed and decided.
As soon as it is clear what is being asked of you, jot down a brief 1 or 2 sentence summary of the project in the contract.
Although there are many artists who produce commissioned art -- from family portraits to custom-made wedding rings -- discovering just the right artist for the job are the most significant and the hardest step.
1.
Know what media you're interested in (painting, sculpture, film) and also the project's budget before you begin looking for an artist.
You'll find out quickly whether you can afford a well-known and recognized artist or a less expensive, rising one.
2.
Look for an artist through art agencies, art dealers and galleries, the internet and personal recommendations.
Beyond aesthetic factors; search for an artist who will listen to your ideas, follow your direction and clearly know what you want the finished item to look like.
3.
Once you've identified an artist who's willing and able to work with you, set a date to hold a planning session and begin to write down as many concepts and detailed descriptions about the commissioned piece as possible.
4.
In advance, think and make plans for the meeting.
Include as many information as possible in your conversation.
a) the item considered, b) the dimensions of the item, c) the structure, d) the specs that have to be fulfilled, and so on.
This will help to guide you and the artist through the appointment as well as make sure that you communicate all of your ideas and concerns.
The more effectively you and the artist communicate with each other, the more strongly your demands will be met.
5.
Make sure you have a commission agreement written and signed before further work is carried out.
This legally binding contract must include details about the following: initial designs, payment schedule, completion date, insurance, shipping and installation, termination agreements, ownership and copyright, alterations and maintenance, contact details, and also the state where the work is created.
6.
Plan a review of initial sketches as the artist begins the project.
A commissioned artist has to be open and ready to adhere to your direction.
In addition, you're spending money on his or her talent and vision: Do not regularly squelch his / her creativity basically to remain in control of the process.
This is a collaborative process, not really a win-or-lose task.
7.
Assess the sketches thoroughly at each review stage in the process and be honest in your assessments.
Carefully look at the finished item and give it your ultimate approval.
Be sure to have the artist's certificate of authenticity and any other paperwork that he or she may provide.