Commissions
Are you looking for a special, custom painting to make a bold statement in your home?
Would you like a portrait of a beloved family member, friend or pet (i.e. in memoriam) as a keepsake or as a gift?
Is there a particular place in the world that has a special meaning to you from your travels or your past?
Do you have a childhood photo or memory of an item, place or event, that you really treasure?
Are you a big fan of certain sports, athletes, musicians, actors, or public figures that you admire?
Is there a special scene from a movie or show that really moved you?
Those are all great ideas for a commission and I would love to bring them to life for you in a drawing or painting.
Would you like a portrait of a beloved family member, friend or pet (i.e. in memoriam) as a keepsake or as a gift?
Is there a particular place in the world that has a special meaning to you from your travels or your past?
Do you have a childhood photo or memory of an item, place or event, that you really treasure?
Are you a big fan of certain sports, athletes, musicians, actors, or public figures that you admire?
Is there a special scene from a movie or show that really moved you?
Those are all great ideas for a commission and I would love to bring them to life for you in a drawing or painting.
Read more about the commission process below
Where to start if you want to commission a drawing or painting?
I usually work from photographs in my home studio for my original pieces as well as commissions that I take on.
When the commission is a portrait of a pet or person, I prefer to work from multiple photo's of the subject, if at all possible.
This allows me to look for the best angles, lighting and image quality for the piece.
With that in mind, make sure to go through your photos or some online images that can help explain your vision and have them ready before you make contact. Some customers even prepare a rough sketch if they have a specific composition in mind.
Then think of the space where it will be hanging and give the following questions some thought:
This in depth conversation with the client will quickly give me ideas on how to approach the piece and to provide you with an accurate cost estimate. If you are not quite certain about all these elements, don't worry. I can offer suggestions and advice and answer any questions you may have.
Important note:
Unfortunately, the online world comes with scams and one can never be too careful.
Artists often receive fake requests for commissions that are intended to scam them.
In view of this, and for both our peace of mind, I always request to have an in depth conversation by videochat or phone, after the initial contact is made.
* I do not sell NFT art or any other forms of digital art at this time.*
When the commission is a portrait of a pet or person, I prefer to work from multiple photo's of the subject, if at all possible.
This allows me to look for the best angles, lighting and image quality for the piece.
With that in mind, make sure to go through your photos or some online images that can help explain your vision and have them ready before you make contact. Some customers even prepare a rough sketch if they have a specific composition in mind.
Then think of the space where it will be hanging and give the following questions some thought:
- What size should the artwork be?
- Would you like it to be in black & white or in colour?
- What medium would you like it to be in? (i.e. Acrylic, oil paint, graphite pencil, charcoal and other mediums are available)
- What substrate would you like? This will often depend on the medium used. Some options I offer are: paper, paint panels, gallery wrapped, stretched canvas or cradled wood panels. Some of these options require framing and some do not, which can be an added cost.
- Do you have a specific style or colour scheme in mind?
- Can you provide some images as examples of what you're looking for?
- Another thing that helps me tremendously in this process, is if you can share a bit about the story behind the commissioned piece. It helps me connect with you, the subject and to understand the emotion behind the commission.
This in depth conversation with the client will quickly give me ideas on how to approach the piece and to provide you with an accurate cost estimate. If you are not quite certain about all these elements, don't worry. I can offer suggestions and advice and answer any questions you may have.
Important note:
Unfortunately, the online world comes with scams and one can never be too careful.
Artists often receive fake requests for commissions that are intended to scam them.
In view of this, and for both our peace of mind, I always request to have an in depth conversation by videochat or phone, after the initial contact is made.
* I do not sell NFT art or any other forms of digital art at this time.*
how does pricing work?
A custom commissioned drawing or painting is unique and pricing is determined by a variety of factors; the size, the amount of work (time) or detail involved, the materials used etc.
Below you'll find a starting price range for portrait drawing on paper, based on one subjects (person or pet), from the shoulders up.
Below you'll find a starting price range for portrait drawing on paper, based on one subjects (person or pet), from the shoulders up.
*These prices are a guideline only and subject to change. All prices are in Canadian Dollars.
Any variations to the sizes mentioned above, i.e., adding elements or details, changing or adding a different medium, adding framing or changing from paper to a canvas or other substrate, will affect the pricing shown above.
Since each commission is unique, pricing is always provided and confirmed in writing.
Once the client accepts the pricing in writing, we can proceed with the commission.
Any variations to the sizes mentioned above, i.e., adding elements or details, changing or adding a different medium, adding framing or changing from paper to a canvas or other substrate, will affect the pricing shown above.
Since each commission is unique, pricing is always provided and confirmed in writing.
Once the client accepts the pricing in writing, we can proceed with the commission.
I AM READY TO PROCEED WITH THE COMMISSION - WHAT'S NEXT?
Commission Contract:
The commission details have been discussed. Pricing has been provided and the client has confirmed in writing that they wish to proceed. If they have not received a commission contract together with the pricing they may receive it at this stage in a separate email.
Commission contracts generally specify project dates, payment schedules, notable project requirements, outline any check-in points agreed between the artist and commissioner, and address the rights and ownership of the completed artwork.
They are a helpful tool to keep all parties accountable and clearly define expectations for projects.
If the project or commission is small, some formal timelines and conditions of the commission will be laid out in writing at the same time that pricing is provided without the need to sign a separate document.
In this case, a reply by email confirming that you wish to proceed, will be sufficient.
Preliminary (rough) sketch:
Depending on the size and scope of the commission, a preliminary rough sketch can be provided upon request.
However it will not be provided until client has signed the commission contract.
It is not intended to be a detailed sketch, but only as an extra tool to convey the planned composition and colour scheme of the project and make sure we are on the same page.
Smaller or simple commissions may not require a preliminary sketch at all.
Payment terms:
In general, when the client has given permission to proceed, the following payment terms apply:
The finished commissioned piece will only be shipped or delivered only when it is paid in full.
Payment methods:
Payment can be made via PayPal, in cash or via E-transfer if you are in Canada.
Note:
When paying by PayPal I do not provide my PayPal details due to possible scams and fraud.
A proper PayPal invoice will be provided to the client by email.
This will allow you to pay securely with any payment options you may have setup within your PayPal account.
This method does not give me any access to your PayPal account or to your personal information.
It ensures a safe and trustworthy payment transaction for both the client and myself.
For all other payment options mentioned above, an invoice or receipt will also be provided by email.
Please note that I am not registered (or required) to charge any sales tax.
The commission details have been discussed. Pricing has been provided and the client has confirmed in writing that they wish to proceed. If they have not received a commission contract together with the pricing they may receive it at this stage in a separate email.
Commission contracts generally specify project dates, payment schedules, notable project requirements, outline any check-in points agreed between the artist and commissioner, and address the rights and ownership of the completed artwork.
They are a helpful tool to keep all parties accountable and clearly define expectations for projects.
If the project or commission is small, some formal timelines and conditions of the commission will be laid out in writing at the same time that pricing is provided without the need to sign a separate document.
In this case, a reply by email confirming that you wish to proceed, will be sufficient.
Preliminary (rough) sketch:
Depending on the size and scope of the commission, a preliminary rough sketch can be provided upon request.
However it will not be provided until client has signed the commission contract.
It is not intended to be a detailed sketch, but only as an extra tool to convey the planned composition and colour scheme of the project and make sure we are on the same page.
Smaller or simple commissions may not require a preliminary sketch at all.
Payment terms:
In general, when the client has given permission to proceed, the following payment terms apply:
- A non-refundable down payment of 50% before the project is started.
- When the piece is finished and ready to ship or deliver, the final 50% is due.
The finished commissioned piece will only be shipped or delivered only when it is paid in full.
Payment methods:
Payment can be made via PayPal, in cash or via E-transfer if you are in Canada.
Note:
When paying by PayPal I do not provide my PayPal details due to possible scams and fraud.
A proper PayPal invoice will be provided to the client by email.
This will allow you to pay securely with any payment options you may have setup within your PayPal account.
This method does not give me any access to your PayPal account or to your personal information.
It ensures a safe and trustworthy payment transaction for both the client and myself.
For all other payment options mentioned above, an invoice or receipt will also be provided by email.
Please note that I am not registered (or required) to charge any sales tax.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE THE COMMISSION IS IN PROGRESS.
Progress updates:
Some clients are comfortable leaving it completely up to the artist and are happy to wait and see the piece when it is finished.
Artists really appreciate to receive that kind of trust and to have full creative license.
Nevertheless, depending on the commission, I generally check in with the client to let them know that I have started the commission. (Materials are purchased, the non refundable deposit has been paid). I may feel inclined to check in with the client multiple times (at the mid-way point or later on), for example, if I feel the expected completion date could be sooner than expected, or if there are any delays. These are simple check-ins without in process photos.
If you feel more at ease receiving some "in process" updates with photos, this can be provided upon request.
The number of updates should be justified by the scope and size of the project, should not hinder or delay the progression of the commission, and should be discussed in advance and outlined in the commission contract.
Please keep in mind that the "in process" stages are not always a good indication of what the end result will look like.
Sometimes one can be discouraged by seeing the early stages of a painting or drawing. This is often why artists nervously refer to it as "the ugly stage". We know there is still a lot more work to be done. This stage is very fluid and it can still take several steps and layers and we don't want you to worry unnecessarily. So please keep an open mind and trust the process.
Some clients are comfortable leaving it completely up to the artist and are happy to wait and see the piece when it is finished.
Artists really appreciate to receive that kind of trust and to have full creative license.
Nevertheless, depending on the commission, I generally check in with the client to let them know that I have started the commission. (Materials are purchased, the non refundable deposit has been paid). I may feel inclined to check in with the client multiple times (at the mid-way point or later on), for example, if I feel the expected completion date could be sooner than expected, or if there are any delays. These are simple check-ins without in process photos.
If you feel more at ease receiving some "in process" updates with photos, this can be provided upon request.
The number of updates should be justified by the scope and size of the project, should not hinder or delay the progression of the commission, and should be discussed in advance and outlined in the commission contract.
Please keep in mind that the "in process" stages are not always a good indication of what the end result will look like.
Sometimes one can be discouraged by seeing the early stages of a painting or drawing. This is often why artists nervously refer to it as "the ugly stage". We know there is still a lot more work to be done. This stage is very fluid and it can still take several steps and layers and we don't want you to worry unnecessarily. So please keep an open mind and trust the process.
After the commission is completed
When your commission is complete:
You will be contacted as soon as the commission is complete and we will discuss how you'd like me to show you the final piece.
This can be done either by sending a photo or video, connecting via video chat and sometimes this happens in person, depending on your location or whether it will be shipped, picked up or delivered.
I will also explain what kind of protective coating will or has been applied and how to care for the piece.
Now the final payment will be due before the piece is shipped, picked up or delivered.
Shipping or pickup:
Shipping is not included in my pricing and is subject to the total weight, dimensions and destination postal code.
If applicable, a shipping estimate will be provided. I only charge what it actually costs me, nothing more.
I do not charge extra for packaging at this time, unless a crate is required, which will included in the estimate.
Shipping options are UPS or Canada Post.
Insurance (Shipping):
At the client's request and cost, the artwork can be insured for shipping which will be added to the final payment due before delivery. If the client does not opt for insurance, the risk and responsibility for the commission ends for the artist as soon as it is shipped.
Pickup or in person delivery:
If the client is local and my schedule allows it, I can deliver at no cost in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa.
Anywhere outside this area, I will require a nominal fee, to cover for my time and gas, depending on the delivery location.
Again, if a crate is required for delivery, this may change my ability to deliver in person or if there will be an extra cost.
It is possible to pickup at my home studio with an appointment.
What if you have any reservations if I can deliver a good result?
My one rule is that I do not take on a commission if it is not a good fit (not the right style or subject matter), or if I am not confident that I can achieve the desired result. I will also decline a commission if know that my schedule will not allow me to deliver the piece on time. After all, it may be required for a special birthday, holiday or event.
I will be very honest in this because it doesn't serve me or my clients to be disappointed at the end.
In turn I always appreciate the client's honesty if they are not clear on anything or do not feel comfortable that the outcome may be as expected before we start.
Cancelling a commission in progress:
Once a commission is started, the 50% down payment paid is non refundable.
That is in part for the materials used and purchased and the time that has already been invested in the project from the start.
There are various reasons why a client would want to cancel a commission before completion. If the timing or reasons are reasonable and just, the client can cancel the commission and will not have to pay the final 50% payment that is due at completion, and forego the artwork if they choose to, regardless of what stage it is at.
Returns or refunds after completion:
The frase "Art is subjective" is well known, as well as "beauty is in the eye of the beholder".
So what if you are not satisfied with the end result? Can you return the piece and request a refund?
What would justify a return or refund of a completed commission after the artist has done all the work?
One should ask the following:
If the client is not satisfied with a particular part of the completed commission, perhaps it can be corrected.
I will always do my best to make changes or corrections to ensure the client is happy with their commission.
And finally, while this has not happened yet, if a customer is ever truly dissatisfied and their arguments are reasonable and just, all except the 50% down payment and any insurance and shipping/delivery cost that was paid) will be refunded.
You will be contacted as soon as the commission is complete and we will discuss how you'd like me to show you the final piece.
This can be done either by sending a photo or video, connecting via video chat and sometimes this happens in person, depending on your location or whether it will be shipped, picked up or delivered.
I will also explain what kind of protective coating will or has been applied and how to care for the piece.
Now the final payment will be due before the piece is shipped, picked up or delivered.
Shipping or pickup:
Shipping is not included in my pricing and is subject to the total weight, dimensions and destination postal code.
If applicable, a shipping estimate will be provided. I only charge what it actually costs me, nothing more.
I do not charge extra for packaging at this time, unless a crate is required, which will included in the estimate.
Shipping options are UPS or Canada Post.
Insurance (Shipping):
At the client's request and cost, the artwork can be insured for shipping which will be added to the final payment due before delivery. If the client does not opt for insurance, the risk and responsibility for the commission ends for the artist as soon as it is shipped.
Pickup or in person delivery:
If the client is local and my schedule allows it, I can deliver at no cost in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby and Oshawa.
Anywhere outside this area, I will require a nominal fee, to cover for my time and gas, depending on the delivery location.
Again, if a crate is required for delivery, this may change my ability to deliver in person or if there will be an extra cost.
It is possible to pickup at my home studio with an appointment.
What if you have any reservations if I can deliver a good result?
My one rule is that I do not take on a commission if it is not a good fit (not the right style or subject matter), or if I am not confident that I can achieve the desired result. I will also decline a commission if know that my schedule will not allow me to deliver the piece on time. After all, it may be required for a special birthday, holiday or event.
I will be very honest in this because it doesn't serve me or my clients to be disappointed at the end.
In turn I always appreciate the client's honesty if they are not clear on anything or do not feel comfortable that the outcome may be as expected before we start.
Cancelling a commission in progress:
Once a commission is started, the 50% down payment paid is non refundable.
That is in part for the materials used and purchased and the time that has already been invested in the project from the start.
There are various reasons why a client would want to cancel a commission before completion. If the timing or reasons are reasonable and just, the client can cancel the commission and will not have to pay the final 50% payment that is due at completion, and forego the artwork if they choose to, regardless of what stage it is at.
Returns or refunds after completion:
The frase "Art is subjective" is well known, as well as "beauty is in the eye of the beholder".
So what if you are not satisfied with the end result? Can you return the piece and request a refund?
What would justify a return or refund of a completed commission after the artist has done all the work?
One should ask the following:
- Was the agreed timeline exceeded unreasonably, without contacting the client in advance, or without their approval, and at no fault of the client?
- Is the completed work at the same standard as other completed work that the client was shown as examples?
- Did the client see a preliminary sketch or any other work in progress that the client agreed to, and was the client clearly informed about what they could expect from the finished piece?
- Did the client provide clear and suitable images for the commission in question and is there a reasonable likeness?
- Did both the client and artist adhere to the details outlined in the commission agreement?
If the client is not satisfied with a particular part of the completed commission, perhaps it can be corrected.
I will always do my best to make changes or corrections to ensure the client is happy with their commission.
And finally, while this has not happened yet, if a customer is ever truly dissatisfied and their arguments are reasonable and just, all except the 50% down payment and any insurance and shipping/delivery cost that was paid) will be refunded.