How to Do Art Commissions: Your Guide

So, how do you do art commissions? You start by understanding what they are, then find clients, set your prices, agree on terms, do the work, and get paid. This guide will walk you through every step of taking art commissions.

What is an Art Commission?

An art commission is when someone pays an artist to create a unique piece of artwork for them. This could be a portrait, a landscape, a fantasy character, or anything else the client desires. It’s a direct way for artists to earn money from their skills and for clients to get exactly what they want. It’s a powerful way to build a freelance art career.

Why Take Art Commissions?

Income: Commissions provide a steady stream of income for artists.
Skill Development: Working on varied projects helps you grow as an artist.
Client Relationships: You build connections with people who appreciate your work.
Portfolio Building: Commissioned pieces add diverse examples to your portfolio.

Finding Art Commission Clients

Getting your first art commission can feel like a big hurdle, but there are many ways to connect with people looking for custom art.

Online Presence is Key

Your online presence is your storefront. Make it inviting and informative.

Social Media Platforms

Instagram: Highly visual, perfect for showcasing your art. Use relevant hashtags like #artcommission, #artistforhire, #customart, and #freelanceartist. Post regularly and engage with your followers.
Twitter: Good for quick updates, sharing WIPs (works in progress), and connecting with other artists and potential clients.
Facebook: Create a dedicated artist page. Join art groups and communities where commissions are discussed.
TikTok/Reels: Short videos of your art process can go viral and attract new eyes.

Portfolio Websites

ArtStation: Popular among digital artists and game/concept artists.
Behance: A great platform for a wide range of creative professionals.
Your Own Website: Gives you full control over branding and presentation. Include an “About Me,” a gallery, and a clear “Commissions” page.

Art Commission Platforms and Marketplaces

These platforms are specifically designed to connect artists with clients.

DeviantArt: A long-standing community with a commission widget.
Fiverr: You create “gigs” for specific art services and prices.
Upwork: A freelance marketplace where clients post jobs.
Etsy: While known for handmade goods, many artists successfully sell art commissions here.

Networking and Word-of-Mouth

Attend Local Art Events: Meet people and talk about your art.
Collaborate with Other Artists: Cross-promotion can introduce you to new audiences.
Tell Friends and Family: They might know someone looking for custom art.

What to Include in Your Commission Information

When you’re ready to take on clients, make sure your commission information is clear.

Services Offered: What types of art do you create? (e.g., portraits, character design, illustrations)
Pricing Guide: A clear breakdown of your costs.
Examples: Showcase your best commission work.
Process: Explain how you handle commissions.
Terms of Service: Outline your rules and policies.

Setting Art Commission Prices

This is a crucial part of taking art commissions. Pricing your work correctly ensures you’re compensated fairly for your time and skill.

Factors to Consider When Setting Prices

Time Investment: How long does a piece typically take you?
Skill Level/Experience: More experienced artists can often charge more.
Complexity of the Request: Detailed pieces require more time and effort.
Materials/Software Costs: Factor in any expenses.
Market Rates: Research what other artists with similar styles and experience charge.
Usage Rights: Will the client use the art for personal use or commercial purposes? Commercial use usually commands a higher fee.

Pricing Structures

Hourly Rate: Charge a set amount per hour worked. This is good for projects with unpredictable scope.
Per Piece Pricing: A fixed price for specific types of commissions. This is often easier for clients to budget.
Tiered Pricing: Offer different levels of detail or complexity at varying price points.

Example Pricing Tiers (Conceptual)

Service	Basic (Simple Shading)	Standard (Full Color)	Premium (Detailed Background)
Bust Portrait	$50	$80	$120
Half Body	$100	$150	$200
Full Body	$150	$220	$300
Simple BG	+$30	+$50	+$75
Complex BG	+$70	+$100	+$150

Note: These are example prices and should be adjusted based on your individual skill, time, and market.

Getting Paid

Payment Methods: PayPal, Stripe, Wise, or bank transfers are common.
Upfront Payment: Many artists require a deposit (e.g., 50%) before starting, with the rest due upon completion. This protects you.
Milestone Payments: For larger projects, you might split payments into several stages.

The Art Commission Process: Step-by-Step

A clear art commission process makes things smooth for both you and the client.

Step 1: Receiving a Commission Art Request

A client reaches out with an idea. They might send a detailed description or just a general concept.

Gather Information: Ask for specifics. What is the subject? What style do they want? What is the desired mood or atmosphere? Do they have reference images?
Clarify Expectations: Make sure you and the client are on the same page about the final product.

Step 2: Quoting and Agreement

Once you have all the details, you can provide a quote.

Provide a Detailed Quote: Break down the costs based on your pricing structure.
Discuss Revisions: How many revision rounds are included? What happens if they want major changes?
Delivery Timeline: Give an estimated completion date.

Step 3: Creating an Art Commission Contract

A contract protects both parties. It clarifies what you will deliver and what the client will pay.

Key Elements of an Art Commission Contract

Artist Information: Your name, contact details.
Client Information: Client’s name, contact details.
Project Description: Detailed description of the artwork, including size, medium, style, and any specific elements.
Deliverables: What will the client receive? (e.g., digital file, physical painting)
Price and Payment Terms: Total cost, deposit amount, payment schedule, and accepted payment methods.
Timeline: Estimated start and completion dates, potential delays.
Revision Policy: Number of included revisions, cost of additional revisions.
Usage Rights/Licensing: Personal use only? Commercial use? Who owns the copyright?
Cancellation Policy: What happens if either party needs to cancel?
Dispute Resolution: How will disagreements be handled?
Signatures: Both parties must sign and date the contract.

Step 4: Sketch and Approval (WIPs)

Before diving into the final piece, it’s wise to get client approval on a sketch or rough draft.

Send Initial Sketch: Show the basic composition and character poses.
Incorporate Feedback: Make adjustments based on the client’s input.
Get Final Approval: Ensure the client is happy with the direction before proceeding.

Step 5: Creating the Artwork

This is where you bring the vision to life.

Work on the Final Piece: Focus on the details, colors, and rendering.
Provide Progress Updates: Sharing work-in-progress (WIP) images can keep the client engaged and show them the project is moving forward. This helps manage expectations and catch issues early.

Step 6: Final Approval and Delivery

Once the artwork is complete, present it to the client for their final review.

Submit Final Artwork: Share a high-resolution version of the completed piece.
Minor Tweaks: Allow for very minor adjustments if needed, as per your contract.
Deliver the Artwork: Send the digital file or ship the physical piece.

Step 7: Final Payment and Feedback

Request Final Payment: Once the client approves the final artwork, request the remaining payment.
Ask for Feedback: A happy client might leave a review or recommend you to others.

Managing Art Commissions and Your Business

Effective management is key to running a successful freelance art business.

Time Management for Artists

Set Realistic Deadlines: Don’t overcommit yourself. It’s better to finish early than to miss a deadline.
Block Out Time: Schedule specific times for commissions, client communication, and your own creative practice.
Use Tools: Calendars, to-do lists, and project management apps can help.

Staying Organized

Digital File Management: Keep all client files, invoices, and contracts organized in clearly named folders.
Client Communication Log: Keep a record of important conversations, especially via email or a dedicated messaging system.
Invoicing: Use simple invoicing software or templates to create professional invoices.

Handling Difficult Clients or Situations

Clear Communication is Crucial: Address issues calmly and professionally.
Refer to Your Contract: If a client asks for something outside the agreed terms, politely refer them to the contract.
Know When to Say No: If a request is outside your skill set or violates your ethics, it’s okay to decline.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How much should I charge for an art commission?
A: This depends on many factors: your skill, time, complexity, and market rates. Start by researching what other artists charge, then calculate your own costs and desired profit. A good starting point is to factor in your time (hourly rate) plus material costs and a profit margin.

Q: What if a client doesn’t like the final artwork?
A: This is where your contract and revision policy come in. If the artwork is as agreed upon in the sketch and contract, you are generally not obligated to redo it for free. However, offering minor adjustments or a discount on a future commission can be a good customer service gesture, depending on the situation.

Q: Can I refuse a commission?
A: Yes, absolutely. Artists have the right to refuse any commission that makes them uncomfortable, goes against their personal ethics, or is something they don’t feel they can execute well. It’s important to be polite and professional when declining.

Q: How do I handle copyright with commissions?
A: Typically, the artist retains the copyright unless otherwise specified in the contract. The client purchases a license for personal use. If a client wants to use the artwork for commercial purposes (e.g., on merchandise), you need to negotiate a separate commercial license fee, which will be significantly higher.

Q: Should I take deposits for commissions?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended to take a deposit, often 50% of the total cost, before starting any work. This ensures the client is serious and covers your initial time and materials if they decide not to proceed.

Taking on art commissions can be a rewarding experience, offering both financial benefits and artistic growth. By approaching it with professionalism, clear communication, and a well-defined process, you can build a successful freelance art career. Happy creating!