How To Commission A Painting

From concept to completion, the client and artist work together to bring an idea to reality. Whether you are commissioning a large or small, public or private painting, the process remains the same. These are the steps you will follow as you commission a painting. Payment structure may vary between artists, so be sure to inquire.

1. Choosing the artist

Finding the right artist to create your painting is the key to owning a piece you, your family, or your organization, will enjoy and value for a lifetime. It is best to find an artist whose style reflects what you are looking for and who has experience producing paintings in the style you desire.

Susan Wagner's painting style is closely related to Fauvism, which emphasizes painterly qualities, the imaginative use of color, and simplified lines.

2. Provide your artist with information

Before you approach an artist you may want to answer these questions yourself so you are able to clearly convey your expectations.

• What size would you like your painting to be?
• Do you feel strongly that certain colors or shades of color should be included in the painting? If so be sure to let the artist know.
• What is your budget? Be honest with yourself and the artist. If your budget is tight let the artist know. He or she may be able to work with you to let you know how to decrease your costs.
• What is your deadline?

If the painting is a portrait or of an object, make available photographs of the subject to help the artist determine the level of detail needed. This will also enable the artist to give a better estimate.

3. Quote given to client

The artist will give you a quote for the final painting. The quote is an in-depth explanation of what the client should expect and will receive as an end product. The quote also includes the cost, which varies for each piece.

4. First payment due & painting begins

After accepting the quote, a down payment will be paid and work will begin on the painting.
If the painting is of a person able to model for the artist or an object that may not be left with the artist, a sitting will be scheduled. Several sittings may be requested by the artist to help produce the best possible end product. If the painting is of a person or object the artist cannot view in-person, please provide photos.

5. Client receives painting & final payment due

Once the painting is complete, the final payment equal to the remaining amount of the quote is due to the artist and the finished artwork is given to the client.

Let's Get Started!

If you are ready to commission your own painting visit the Commissioning a Fine Work of Art page and complete the form.