How to Commission Original Art ... A Practical Guide

Most people who have never commissioned original art are nervous about the process. They do not know what to ask for, how much to say, or whether they will end up with something they actually want.

Here is what you need to know.

Start with a clear brief, not a prescription. Tell the artist what you are looking for in terms of feeling, purpose, and context. Where will the work hang? What should it do in the space? What subjects or moods resonate with you? Be specific about practical constraints (size, color range, whether it needs to work with existing furnishings), but leave room for the artist to bring their own voice.

Discuss the process before it starts. Good commissioned work involves conversation. Ask the artist how they will work, when you will see progress, and what the revision process looks like. Most artists offer one or two rounds of input at the sketch or initial stage. Substantial changes mid-process are often not possible.

Agree on timeline and payment before work begins. Standard practice is 30-50% deposit at the start, with the balance on completion. Get the terms in writing.

Trust the artist you chose. You chose this artist because their existing work speaks to you. Give them the latitude to bring that same quality to your commission. Micromanaging the process usually produces worse work.

Commissioned art, done well, results in a piece that fits your life in ways that work off the wall rarely can.