commissioning artwork

Guide to successful commissioning (part one)

Be reasonably clear about what you want, but remember that the artist will also have an input. Commissioning is essentially collaborative.

Plan the stages of the project with the maker. This allows everyone to have reasonable expectations of the outcome, and can flag up if something needs to be re-negotiated.

Money matters must be discussed early on - this keeps everyone happy. The maker would usually expect to receive half the money at the outset and the remainder on completion. If expenses are to be paid on top, these should be discussed and agreed.

The design stage is important - even if the brief is clear, an artist needs time to develop the ideas and create the initial designs. Depending on the person, they may work with several themes or ideas, this can lead to a choice of pieces or different approaches to the brief which will need to be refined and discussed.

Professionalism is required on both sides - clear communication, prompt payment and finishing to time and budget. If there are any problems, tact and courtesy should solve them.

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