Key Questions to Ask Before Accepting an Art Commission
/Key Questions to Ask Before Accepting an Art Commission
You find yourself in an exciting situation as someone approaches you with genuine admiration for your artwork and an enticing proposal for a custom piece. It’s undoubtedly flattering, but it’s crucial to approach the opportunity with careful consideration before diving in.
While many commissions proceed smoothly, cautionary tales abound of seemingly promising projects morphing into never-ending nightmares of frustration and disappointment. To ensure a positive experience, it’s essential to ask the right questions before accepting a commission, so we have curated a list of ten key questions that warrant careful consideration before committing to a commission.
Am I capable of completing this commission?
Honesty with yourself about your capabilities and limitations is essential.
Assess whether the proposed project includes techniques or materials with which you are unfamiliar. It’s better to decline a project outside your skillset than to promise something you can’t deliver.
For example, if a client requests a sculpture in a medium you have never worked with, it’s crucial to evaluate your ability to create the desired piece and communicate your limitations to the client.
How long will it take me to complete this project?
Creating a custom piece generally takes more time than working on your own projects.
Consider the back-and-forth communication, trial and error, and collaboration involved. Calculate a realistic timeframe that provides ample room for unexpected delays or challenges, allowing you to deliver the final piece without rushing or compromising quality.
For instance, if you estimate a painting will take two weeks based on your previous experience, multiply it by a third to account for potential delays or complexities. Providing examples of past commission with their respective timeframes will give the client a better understanding of the process.
Do I collaborate Well with Others?
Accepting a commission often involves collaborating with clients who may have input and expectations.
Consider whether you are open to working closely with someone else, receiving feedback, and making adjustments to your creative process. Reflect on your previous experiences working with clients and assess how well you handled collaboration.
Be honest about your comfort level with input and communication. Sharing a positive example of a past commission where collaboration enhanced the final outcome can help reassure the client.
Does this Project Align with My Artistic Goals and Career Stage?
Consider the extent to which the commission aligns with your artistic goals and vision.
While it’s not necessary for every project to be an exact reflection of your existing style, evaluate the importance of aligning the project with your current artistic direction. Stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to new opportunities and growth.
However, if the project significantly deviates from your artistic goals, consider whether it’s worth your time and effort at this point in your career.
Can the Client Provide a Deposit?
To safeguard your efforts and time investment, consider requesting a deposit from the client before initiating work.
This ensured both parties are equally invested in the project’s outcome and projects you against potential non-payment. Determine a reasonable percentage or amount that covers your expenses and acts as a commitment from the client.
For example, if your final product is worth £1,500, you might ask for a 25-40% non-refundable down payment to secure the commission.
Would The Client Like to Review Samples of My Previous Work?
Offering your client a range of your previous work allows them to understand your artistic style and capabilities.
Discuss their preferences, highlighting specific aspects they appreciate while managing their expectations regarding exact replication. Transparently communicating what is achievable and addressing any limitations in advance can prevent misunderstandings.
Presenting a portfolio of past commissions and explaining how you tailored each project to meet the client’s preferences will showcase your ability to adapt.
How Involved Does the Client Want to Be in the Creative Process?
Clarify the level of client involvement and communication expected throughout the project.
Establish checkpoints or milestones to share progress updates without overwhelming the client. This ensures that both parties stay informed, potential issues are addressed promptly, and the client gains a sense of the artwork’s direction.
For instance, agree on specific stages where you will seek the client’s feedback and incorporate their input. Provide an example of a commission where regular communication and feedback positively influences the final outcome.
What is The Preferred Method of Communication During the Project?
Determine the client’s preferred mode of communication during the creation process.
Whether it’s email, text messaging, phone calls, or in-person meetings, aligning on communication channels facilitates effective collaboration and prevents any miscommunication. Respect the client’s communication preferences while ensuring that the chosen method allows for timely updates and efficient decision-making.
For example, if the client prefers in-person meetings, schedule regular studio visits to showcase progress and gather feedback.
Has the Client Commissioned Artwork Before?
Inquiring about the client’s previous commissioning experiences provides valuable insights into their familiarity with the process and expectations.
If necessary, consider requesting references from artists who have worked with the client before, which can give you a better understanding of their working style and professionalism.
Discussing their past experiences will help establish a mutual understanding of how to navigate the commissioning process successfully.
Are There Any Other Questions the Client Has?
Encourage open and ongoing communication by inviting the client to ask any additional questions they may have.
Fostering a transparent and responsive environment throughout the commissioning process helps build trust, strengthens the artist-client relationship, and ensures a satisfactory outcome for both parties.
Assure the client that you are available to address any concerns or queries they may have, fostering a collaborative and supportive atmosphere.