I am open to take commissions— check out my process for details!
It is always an honor to be thought of to create a commission that will be cherished for many years to come. However, because I work primarily from photo source, allowing the photo to speak to me and essentially “come forward” as the desired source material, my process for taking commissions is a little different than one might expect. My hope in providing more information about my process is to illustrate that:
In order to create something worthy of selling (because I am truly humbled by interest in my art), I have to be invested in the project beyond monetarily.
I am not a photorealistic artist, and my style lends itself to certain images more than others.
Finding an image to paint or draw to me is like a treasure hunt. It is as much a part of the art making process as working with a paintbrush. This phase of gathering ideas can happen all sorts of places: online, looking through photos in an album, or on my phone, in the library, or taking photos in nature. When creating for myself, I will simply research or shoot until an image speaks to me. Then, for a long time, I sit and look. I deconstruct the image by shape, light, shadow, color, and line. I look at the tricky parts. I assess my abilities. I make a sketch. If I am not satisfied, I continue to research. This is not about the “type” of image— I paint children, flowers, pets, gore— it is more about the design elements present in the photo. I am interested in the shapes, and the colors, and the light, and the feeling.
When engaging in the process for a commission however, I do not have access to the images. I only have what you provide. This is why I request that many photos be sent for review prior to accepting the project. Of course, pointing out your favorites will help me to focus on those images most closely, and there are times that the image you love best will work perfectly. But there is another piece to keep in mind:
Most times, I will arrive at this project without the pleasure of knowing the person or pet you love so dearly. I do not know their spirit, their many expressions and subtleties of mood. Getting a broader spectrum of images to work with allows me to focus on which one will best lend itself to my unique style, bringing together a richer, more dynamic piece of art as the final product.
I realize that this level of trust and relative ambiguity will not work for everyone. Art is an investment, and I never lose sight of that when accepting a commission. Of course, any project accepted will come with a free consultation and any ideas, expectations, or potential issues will be clearly defined beforehand.
My intention is only to be clear and honest with myself and those interested in my services, so that you walk away with a valuable product that you will be proud to display for years to come.
If you are still interested in the types of successful commissions I have completed in the past, read on!
Horror Portraits:
If you have a horror portrait you have always wanted, feel free to send me an inquiry with your information. It may be that the image you desire will be perfect as it is! If it is not an image I think will work for my style, I may suggest other photo stills from the same movie that would work better, with options on size, materials and price.
Personal Family or Pet Photos:
Maybe you want to surprise your loved one with a portrait of the two of you for a special occasion!
For personal photos, I ask that you send as many pictures that you love of the pet/person (or the two of you), as described in detail above. I will work with you regarding the final image, size, medium, and price.
Graphic Designs:
For a more graphic design, simply send me a message with your ideas and I can work with you on a design. Maybe you love Sea Turtles, or want a Hamsa to ward off the evil eye in your livingroom. Tell me what’s on your mind and we will make it happen!
The Ins and Outs of Commissions
Consultation:
All inquiries come with a free 30 minute consultation to work through ideas and answer questions.
Deposit:
All commissions require half of the total cost up front for materials and labor, to be paid to the artist directly via PayPal or Venmo.
The remainder of the cost will be paid upon project completion.
Timeline:
My average timeline for project completion is 30 days, depending on size and medium.
Image Sharing and Prints:
Both the artist and the buyer have permission to share the image on social media, however the buyer must give artist credit in the post and tag the image.
Prints of the image shall not be made by the artist unless agreed upon in advance of originals sale.
The artist may sell the original work with a stipulation allowing for the artist to create a one-time limited run of prints.
The buyer is prohibited from duplication of the image in any printed or digital form.
Framing and Upkeep:
Original works of art are delicate and susceptible to damage. After the point of sale, the buyer is responsible for the work, understanding that framing is often necessary for safe display, and is subject to its own cost.
*I can make recommendations on fair and quality framing if needed.