Commissions: What You Need to Know
Are you thinking about commissioning a piece of artwork? That's great! Commissions are a wonderful and special way to own a one-of-a-kind piece of art, made just for you. But, there's a lot that goes into making that perfect piece of art. Please read below to learn everything you need to know about commissioning artwork from me.
What to Expect
After receiving your commission request, I will get back to you in 2-4 business days with my thoughts on the piece and estimated price. In the first few weeks, I will collect inspiration from you and come up with 10 thumbnail images that you can choose from for the final product. The final price will be determined after you have selected the thumbnail from which I will create your commission. At this time, you will put down the first half of your payment as a non-refundable deposit and I will begin working on the larger, final piece.
We will work closely together throughout the commission process so that you are completely satisfied with the outcome. As I work on the commission, I will email you weekly work-in-progress shots of the piece, so that you know how things are going and can tell me to make any changes as needed. I will also email you with questions or concerns as they arise while I am creating your commission. The more communication, the better: that way, we can make sure that you love the final product!
Time Frame
Commissions take time! So I can ensure that you are getting your special piece just the way you want, please anticipate that it can take up to six weeks from start to finish.
In addition, please bear in mind that I work a full time job during the week and travel semi-frequently, especially during the summer months. At the beginning of the process, I will let you know my projected schedule so there are no surprises if I am away from the studio for a few days.
Artwork Pricing
When it comes to artwork pricing, I am all about transparency! Commissions are priced higher than my other works, because they are more time consuming, have a deadline, and are created specifically for clients. Commissions are priced based on three things:
1. Size
2. Complexity
3. Final Deadline
Pricing begins with size. Below are the starting prices, based on size:
Small (9"x12"): $400+
Medium (16"x20"): $600+
Large (18"x24"): $750+
Extra Large (22"x30"): $900+
Oversized (32"x48" and larger): $1,200+
Pricing is then determined by the complexity of what you would like. Complexity includes (but is not limited to): variety of color, specific elements that you would like included, special requirements, and how specific your vision is. The more complex, the more expensive. The same goes with your deadline: the tighter the deadline, the more expensive the piece. Keep in mind that my pieces can take a bit of time to dry once completed and we want them to be completely dry before shipping so nothing gets ruined!
If commissioning a piece of art is too much for your budget, I encourage you to check out my original pieces for sale, which are sold at a lower price. Fill out this form for information about purchasing a piece of artwork! You can view the artwork here; if it is not marked as “sold”, it is available!
25% of all artwork sales - commissions and originals - will be donated to Planned Parenthood.
Payment
I accept payment via Venmo or PayPal; I do not accept checks or money orders.
50% of the payment must be put down as a non-refundable deposit, once you have selected the thumbnail sketch that will become your final piece. I must receive this payment before beginning the commission. The remaining amount will be due to be paid when the final piece is completed. Shipping cost - determined on where the piece is being shipped - will be included in the final payment, although I will give you a shipping estimate at the start of the process.
I must receive all payment in full before the piece is shipped or delivered to you. You will be issued an inventory sales receipt and bill from me at the time of your first payment, detailing information about the commission. All payments are non-refundable.
Artwork Delivery
Artwork is created on unframed paper and will be shipped First Class via USPS either flat or rolled safely and packed in a tube (depending on size), in environmentally friendly packing material. Shipping cost is not included in the original price of the commission. For those living in New York City Metro Area, it is possible to arrange an in person pick-up on a case-by-case basis.
What will my piece look like?
The piece will look like my artwork, inspired by you! It is my hope to create the perfect work for you, inspired by the colors you would like, locations you love, and examples of my past work. Working from the inspiration that you provide me, I will create 10 thumbnail sketches that you can choose from for the final version of your commission. All of my commissions are done on high-quality, 100% cotton fiber and acid-free paper.
What can I send you for inspiration?
Things I will use as inspiration:
- Colors you love;
- Colors you hate;
- Images of the space where the piece will be hung;
- Examples of my past work that you enjoy;
- Locations (ex: Rome, Italy) that you love;
- Photographs you have taken.
Things I will not use as inspiration:
- Someone else's photograph;
- Another artist's work.
I have a very specific vision of what I would like. Is that okay?
That depends on what your vision is! Because you are commissioning me to create artwork for you, the piece that you receive from me will be an extension of my body of work. That means that the artwork will look like mine, and no one else's. And remember, the more specific and complex your vision, the more expensive the commission will be.
If you want me to...
- Create an exact replica of another artist's work, or
- Paint something that is representational (ex: your family, pet, or house), or
- Recreate a piece that I have already made...
Then I am not the right artist for you!
I retain the right to turn down commissions as needed. Just as you need me to be the right artist for you, I also need you to be the right client for me. If we are on the same page, together we can (and will!) make great art.
What if I don't like the final product?
Because I work to ensure that we are frequently in communication, I certainly hope this won't be the case! We will be in touch throughout the process - with work-in-progress shots, questions, concerns, thoughts, and more - so hopefully, the final product won't come as a surprise to you.
That said, if you are unhappy with the final product, I am happy to work with you to hopefully amend that on the commission and make any changes as necessary. I put a lot of energy, hours, and dedication into commissions - so if you decide that you don't want the piece after all of our hard work, please remember that your 50% deposit is non-refundable.
Do you frame artwork?
At this time, I do not provide framing for artwork. That said, I am happy to talk with you about what type of frame would work best for the piece, point you in the direction of where to purchase a frame, or where get the artwork professionally framed.
What will I receive with my artwork?
In addition to the artwork, you will receive a signed Certificate of Authenticity for the piece, stating that it is an original commission. You will also receive a "Caring for Artwork" mini-guide, which will help you ensure that your artwork stays undamaged over time.
Questions?
Don't be shy! Please feel free to email me at emmahuneckart@gmail.com with any questions or concerns. It may take me 2-4 business days to get back to you.
I'm ready to make some art!
Great - me too! Please fill out the form here to get started.