Commissioning artwork from a talented artist ensures you'll have a unique piece you'll cherish for life. For the commission to be successful, you'll need to draw up an appropriate contract and take other proactive steps. If you're unfamiliar with art commissions, here's what to know so that you and the artist are pleased with the end result. 

What Should the Contract Include?

Contracts protect you and the artist creating the piece. They establish firm guidelines on how long a project will take to complete, how much it will cost, what the end result will look like, and many other considerations. Accordingly, all contracts must contain certain elements. 

First, identify each party, such as the collector (you) and the artist creating the piece. Make sure the payment terms are explicit. It's common to provide half the cost of the commission upfront, then remit the remaining half once the project is complete.

You'll also need to include language on the rights to the piece. In many cases, the artist retains reproduction rights. You may also be asked for permission to display the original at certain times. Once the terms are acceptable to both parties, the contract can be signed. If any details are unclear or vague, don't sign until the issue is hashed out. 

How Else Can You Ensure a Successful Art Commission?

In addition to working out contractual elements, there are other crucial steps to take when commissioning a piece. While artists are undeniably skilled and talented, you can't expect them to intuit precisely what you want. 

Be as detailed as possible when describing the commission. If possible, provide pictures and images showing colors, construction, and other design elements. If you plan to display the piece in your home, photos of the current decor and design can also help the artist.

While you'll work out the timeline in the contract, you should still stay in regular contact with the artist. Not only will you be able to track the project, but you can also provide additional information if necessary. The artist can even provide images of the work in progress so that you can see how it's coming along. 

Do you have a love for all things 90s, including Nickelodeon® shows and art? If so, contact Brett Wilson Art in Tampa, FL, for your very own art commission. This artist creates vibrant, lively pieces that will take you right back to childhood. He works with a variety of mediums, including digital art, paint, and colored pencils. He's also happy to walk you through the commission process to ensure you absolutely love the finished piece. Call (860) 930-7150 to get started on your custom design, or visit his website to see samples of his past work.