A successful commission starts with alignment: the artist’s existing work should already feel close to the result you hope to live with.

A practical framework

  1. 01

    Choose for style, not versatility

    Shortlist artists whose finished work already has the mood, handling and subject approach you want.

  2. 02

    Write a useful brief

    Share the story, preferred size, intended room, timing, location and a realistic budget range.

  3. 03

    Confirm scope in writing

    Agree on medium, dimensions, price, deposit, revisions, schedule, delivery and reproduction rights.

  4. 04

    Leave room for authorship

    Give the artist strong references and clear constraints without directing every brushstroke.

  5. 05

    Approve and document

    Use agreed checkpoints, pay the balance as specified and retain the invoice and authenticity documentation.

Questions to ask before paying a deposit

  • Does the artist’s existing style fit the idea?
  • What is included in the quoted price?
  • When is the deposit refundable?
  • How many approval stages are included?
  • Who arranges framing, tax, shipping and insurance?