Write the Brief Before You Contact an Artist
Describe where the work will go, who will see it, what it should feel like, and which practical limits cannot move.
- Wall or display dimensions
- Preferred medium or materials
- Subject, mood, and colors that matter
- Colors or subjects that cannot be used
- Budget range
- Delivery deadline
- Framing, installation, or shipping needs
Choose an Artist for the Work They Already Make
Start with artists whose existing work fits the project. A commission is a new work in that artist's voice, not a request to copy another artist, photograph, or style.
Discuss Budget in Plain Numbers
Ask what the price includes. The agreement should separate the artwork from framing, shipping, insurance, installation, taxes, travel, licensing, and later changes. Deposit and payment schedules vary, so put the actual amount and due dates in writing.
Agree on the Review Process
Decide when the artist will share sketches, studies, material samples, or progress images. State how many review points are included and what counts as a paid change. Too many approvals can turn the artist into a pair of hands instead of the person whose work you chose.
Put Rights and Ownership in Writing
Buying the physical artwork usually does not transfer copyright. If you want to reproduce the image on a website, product, advertisement, book, or social campaign, discuss those rights separately and record the permission.
Confirm Delivery and Acceptance
The agreement should name the completion date, delivery method, shipping responsibility, insurance, condition review, installation needs, and what happens if the work arrives damaged.
Ask for the Artwork Record
Request the artist's name, work title, date, materials, dimensions, edition details when relevant, care notes, invoice, and any available process or ownership records. Do not treat a missing detail as verified.
Know the Warning Signs
Pause when the price changes without explanation, the artist will not use a written agreement, portfolio ownership is unclear, deadlines keep moving without communication, or promised documentation never appears.
Start the Conversation
A useful first message can be short: describe the space, purpose, size, budget, deadline, and why this artist's existing work fits. BuyHumanArt.com can route that inquiry through the current commission form.