The Art Commission Process Explained
At 5th & Rugged, we understand that art is incredibly personal and unique to the individual. We believe in creating commissions that honor this individuality and reflect each person's own personal aesthetic.
We start with the end goal in mind, constructing an approach that is tailored to each artwork. By laying out a strategy, timeline, and setting mutual expectations for our clients upfront, we guarantee they will have full understanding of what their project entails prior to us executing on it. This allows us to provide them with a finished product that matches their vision precisely.
We also take pride in offering our customers the very best customer service experience. We are always available to answer any questions or concerns that may arise throughout the process. Our commitment to excellence is what sets us apart from other art companies and ensures we provide our clients with an enjoyable, stress-free experience when they purchase original artwork
If you are keen on commissioning us, start by sending a message via email (info@nelsonmakesart.com) and share with us what it is you're interested in having created. Letting us know a bit about the project will be immensely helpful for us. We will set up an opportunity for us to talk about your commission and narrow down some details.
1 - The Discovery Phase
When beginning the discussion of a commissioned art piece, we will talk about the subject, color, size, orientation, and substrate. When it comes to the art you are creating, we want to ensure that your vision is realized; after all, this is YOUR artwork! So be direct with us and let us know exactly what you're looking for. We will also go over the preferred color palette for the project and discuss how this can influence the overall aesthetic of the piece. If you've got a space in your home where the artwork should hang, it'd be tremendously beneficial for us to have a look at that location via a photo so that later we might mock up what it would appear like with our proposed art pieces.
Additionally, we'll cover the size and orientation of your artwork, as well as substrate choices to ensure that it meets your expectations. We take pride in creating a final product that is exactly how you envisioned it.
Following our conversation, we require payment to begin work on your commissioned art piece. This payment includes a $200 non-refundable deposit, which allows us to purchase the necessary materials and cover some of the costs associated with creating your artwork.
We understand that making any kind of financial commitment can be daunting, so we are always available to answer any questions you may have before proceeding with a commission.
2 - The Refinement Phase
Once the payment is made, we will begin working on a digital sketch of your artwork. This sketch will allow you to visualize the finished product and make any adjustments before we move forward with producing it. Depending on the commission, the exact details that you are envisioning may take multiple iterations.
If we move beyond the 3rd revision, it may be necessary to revisit the cost of the commissioned art piece. Since creating a custom artwork entails more time, effort, and materials than a pre-existing piece, it is important to ensure that the cost reflects this additional work.
If there’s any need for further development of the sketch, we will take our notes and implement them in another digital sketch. Here, we can work together to refine shapes, details, and elements to make your art distinctively yours.
3 - The Creation Phase
Once the digital sketch is approved and the payment for the second phase of the commission is made, we will start ordering any necessary supplies and begin creating the actual art piece. We know how important it is to get things right, which is why we order only high-quality materials, chosen depending on the project requirements.
Because each commission is different, the amount of time it will take for your artwork to be painted will vary. This is due to the unique nature of each project and the specific materials used, as well as how long it takes for these materials to dry.
The process of creating a commissioned artwork typically takes around 8 weeks, from the time we start painting. During this time, we work diligently to bring your unique vision to life. We carefully select the best materials for the project and use techniques that are tailored specifically to the artwork.
We understand that with each commission there is a level of uncertainty, especially when it comes to creating something unique and custom. To ensure the highest quality product and exceed your expectations, we take great care in choosing the right materials and techniques that best suit the project; all while keeping our clients informed throughout the entire process.
4 - Quality Testing
When we have reached 75-90% completion on your commissioned art piece, we will be sure to send a photo of the artwork for your approval. This will allow you to make sure it meets your expectations and that all details are accurately represented.
Upon approval of your commissioned art piece, the final payment is due.
5 - Dry Time
Once the painting is complete, we must then wait for the artwork to dry. Depending on the type of materials used and the size of the piece, this drying time can vary from a few weeks to several months. For instance, oil-based paints usually take around 6 to 8 weeks to dry completely, while acrylics take much less time. We will advise you on an appropriate timeline and do our best to accommodate any needs you may have.
6 - Delivery
Once dry, we will carefully apply a finish of your choosing to the artwork and prepare it for shipment. Depending on the type of finish selected, this process can take up to another business week. We always use high-quality finishes designed to protect and enhance the artwork’s color and longevity.
At the end of this process, you’ll have a unique piece of artwork that captures your vision and exceeds your expectations. Investing in custom art comes with its own set of rewards; not only will it be something to cherish for years to come but it's also an investment into yourself and what matters most to you. By trusting us with your commission, we promise to provide top-notch service quality while delivering a finished product that is sure to make all who see it take notice. With our team at hand, let's create something truly remarkable together!