Top Tips and Pitfalls to Avoid When Commissioning Custom Artwork
Custom artwork has the power to elevate your interior design projects, adding personality, emotion, and storytelling to a space. However, commissioning bespoke pieces requires careful planning and collaboration to ensure the outcome aligns with your vision and your client’s aspirations. Whether you're working on a residential haven or a commercial masterpiece, these essential tips will guide you through the process of commissioning custom artwork successfully.
"When artists and designers team up early, the magic happens. A custom piece adds soul, tells a story, and makes the whole space feel personal and pulled together. Art can be the anchor—the piece that sets the tone and brings intention to other design choices. It’s what transforms a pretty room into your beautiful space.” Arden Upton | Visual Artist, Storyteller, and Award-Winning Photographer.
Understand Your Client's Vision and Needs
The foundation of any successful art commission is a clear understanding of your client’s desires. Before reaching out to an artist, take the time to explore the following:
The Style and Mood
Determine what type of artwork resonates with your client and matches the design of the space. Are they drawn to abstract pieces, landscapes, or bold contemporary designs? Discuss styles, color preferences, and emotional tones they wish to evoke. An inspiration board featuring examples can be incredibly helpful during this stage.
The Purpose of the Artwork
Define the role of the piece in the space. Is it a statement focal point, a unifying accent, or a subtle complement to the decor? Understanding its purpose will shape your choices in size, medium, and artistic approach.
Consider Spatial Details
Measure the intended location and evaluate its surroundings. The dimensions, lighting, wall texture, and furniture placement all impact the type of artwork that will fit and flourish in the environment.
By anchoring your planning phase in a deep understanding of your client’s goals, you’ll build a strong foundation for the rest of the commissioning process.
Set a Realistic Budget
Art commissions can vary dramatically in price depending on the medium, size, complexity, and artist's reputation. Failing to establish a budget upfront is one of the most common pitfalls. To avoid this, communicate transparently with your client about their financial parameters.
Research Cost Averages
Before discussing specific amounts, research the price ranges for the type of artwork you’re interested in. Speak with several artists to gain insights into typical costs based on scale and medium.
Account for Additional Expenses
Remind your client that framing, shipping, and installation costs are often separate from the commission fee. Ensure these are factored into the overall budget.
A clear, well-communicated budget will prevent misunderstandings and ensure the project remains financially feasible.
Research and Select the Right Artist
Matching the right artist to your project is paramount to achieving the desired results. Here’s how to do it effectively:
Vet Their Portfolio
Look for artists whose previous work aligns with the style or technique your client desires. Most professional artists will have an online portfolio showcasing a range of projects.
Check Reviews or References
Read customer reviews or request references to evaluate the artist’s professionalism, communication skills, and adherence to deadlines.
Assess Compatibility
Beyond artistic skill, consider the artist’s willingness to collaborate and their ability to understand the project vision. A successful partnership requires good chemistry and respect for creative input on both sides.
Create a Clear Contract
A thorough contract is your safety net for avoiding misaligned expectations—one of the biggest challenges in art commissions. The contract should contain:
A Detailed Project Description
Include the dimensions, medium, and style of the artwork, along with any specific guidelines the artist must follow.
Payment Terms
Outline the payment structure (e.g., deposit, installments, or full payment upon completion). Specify any penalties for delays or cancellations on either side.
Timeline and Milestones
Define key deadlines, such as initial concept approval, progress reviews, and final delivery.
Ownership and Reproduction Rights
Clarify whether the client will retain full ownership of the piece and whether the artist has the right to use the work for promotional purposes.
Contracts not only formalize expectations but also protect all parties involved should any disputes arise.
Establish a Clear Timeline
Staying on schedule is crucial, particularly if the artwork is part of a broader design project with fixed deadlines. When setting your timeline:
Discuss Turnaround Times
Factor in the artist’s availability and the complexity of the commission. Custom pieces can take weeks or even months to complete.
Build in Buffer Time
Add extra days for unexpected delays, such as creative revisions or shipping issues.
Share the timeline with your client and the artist to ensure everyone is aligned from the start.
Maintain Open Communication
Consistent communication is the key to a smooth and enjoyable collaboration. Here are a few ways to keep the lines open:
Schedule Regular Check-Ins
Agree on intervals for progress updates, where the artist can share sketches, mock-ups, or works-in-progress for feedback.
Provide Constructive Feedback
Encourage your client to give specific feedback, and relay it diplomatically to the artist. Avoid vague statements like "It doesn’t feel right." Instead, identify specific areas for improvement.
Foster Mutual Respect
While offering input is important, remember to respect the artist’s creative expertise. Striking the right balance will result in a stronger final product.
Potential Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even with the best intentions, challenges can arise during the commissioning process. Here are some common pitfalls and strategies to tackle them:
Unclear Expectations
Solution: Use mood boards, sample images, and detailed descriptions to clarify the creative direction.
Budget Overruns
Solution: Confirm that all costs are included in the initial quote and agree on a cap for any scope adjustments.
Missed Deadlines
Solution: Stay proactive about checking progress and ensure the timeline includes contingency buffers.
Creative Disagreements
Solution: Address disputes early and lean on the contract for clarity. Aim for compromise without compromising the quality of the final piece.
Wrapping Up
Commissioning custom artwork is an opportunity to create truly one-of-a-kind interiors that stand as a testament to your design expertise. By understanding your client’s needs, budgeting responsibly, choosing the right artist, and fostering clear communication, you can transform blank walls into captivating, personal masterpieces.
With these tips in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to guide your clients through the creative process and confidently deliver spaces enriched by unique art pieces every time.
About Home Design Guild
We exist to bridge the gap between homeowners and interior design professionals. We are the only client matchmaking service that exclusively serves the interior design industry. We are also the only client lead service that educates each potential client about the interior design process and what to expect prior to your first meeting. We serve as a trusted platform that connects homeowners with vetted designers and decorators. Our goal is to make the process of finding a design professional and understanding the process as seamless as possible, ensuring homeowners can easily find the right expert to bring their vision to life. Learn more at Home Design Guild.
About Artist Arden Upton
Arden Upton is a Southern visual artist, storyteller, and award-winning, highly published photographer whose work is bright, joyful, and celebrates beauty and life. Based in Alabama, she works from her equestrian estate. Arden has collaborated with celebrities, TV personalities, pro athletes, NFL coaches, and players. Her visual art has been featured in solo shows, museum exhibits, and homes and venues from coast to coast. Arden creates original artwork and fine art prints designed for collectors, designers, and everyday art lovers—art that is as versatile as it is meaningful.
