How to Commission Your Own Custom Painting

First of all, this is a collaborative process. We will share ideas, discuss, and agree on the desired outcome – subject, composition, mood, size, colors, etc. Ideally, the client will provide good quality photographs of the desired location. 

Alternatively, I can search for and use my own reference photographs as a starting point. I will create up to three preparatory sketches from which to obtain client’s approval before beginning the commissioned artwork. 

We will discuss and share ideas until we have a composition that we both agree upon for your custom order painting. 

Commission pricing is based on the size and complexity of the painting. We will agree on a fair price before the commission begins. Generally, custom commission paintings are priced higher than already completed portfolio paintings because of the additional time and effort to conform to a specific customer outcome. Once we have an agreement, I require a 50% deposit check to clear before beginning the painting. My paintings are created using high quality acrylic paints that have quick drying capabilities. The painting should be completed and ready for delivery in 3-4 weeks.

A check for the balance of the total price is due upon completion of the painting and prior to shipping. If desired, a photo of the completed piece will be sent at this time. Shipping costs, which will have already been determined and agreed upon, will be added to the final payment due.

I would describe my style as “representational.” I try to portray the scene accurately so that one feels a sense of the realism of actually being there but also may sprinkle in a bit of impressionism. 

I will do my best to capture the spirit of what you request but I ask that you allow some artistic license since this is not intended to be a copy of a photograph but an original artistic creation.

If the order is cancelled prior to the start of work, the deposit will be returned in full. If the commission is cancelled during or after completion of a custom work, the deposit will be non-refundable. 

However, my intention is always to deliver a high-quality product that exceeds client expectations, as you can see from my customer testimonials.

We will communicate throughout the process and I will share progress so there is no confusion.

The most common reason to commission an artist, is to commemorate a special occasion, celebrate someone’s life, or to capture a moment in time. 

For more information about the commission process please contact me at Alan@alanzawacki.com or call 941-296-5003.