Many clients come to me telling me horror stories about art commissions because they had to deal with difficult clients, whereas others don’t want their commissioned piece to be compromised by a client’s opinions throughout the process and therefore avoid commissions altogether.
If you’ve been in any of these situations, then hear me out because there’s light at the end of the tunnel as there are many strategies you can implement to avoid having a bad experience with a client.
Nailing art commissions involves understanding client needs, delivering quality work, and maintaining a professional approach throughout the process.
It also entails knowing your rights as an artist so you can set boundaries from the beginning in case you come across a client who is behaving weirder than expected!
As I always say, relying on a single source of income can be risky for artists. Art commissions provide an additional revenue stream, helping to diversify and stabilise your earnings and reducing vulnerability to market fluctuations.
They also often lead to regular assignments, ensuring a consistent flow of work and income. This allows you to focus on your craft with less concern about finding your next project or sale. Here are some steps and tips to ensure success in art commissions:
Tip #1 - Clear communication
Before going into details about the commission itself, it’s important to establish a clear communication from the very start so you can set expectations early on in the commission. Although a commission conversation might have started in your DM’s or through your website, always discuss with your client their preferred means of communication through the project.
Tip #2 - Establish a concise and detailed brief
Begin by discussing the project thoroughly with the client. Understand their vision, preferences and expectations. Ask for any reference images, colour schemes, or specific styles they have in mind. Make sure the brief is comprehensive, clear, and agreed upon by both parties.
Tip #3 - Set realistic deadlines
Estimate the time required to complete the project and add some buffer for revisions or unforeseen circumstances. Clearly communicate the deadline to the client (and have it in writing too!) and ensure it aligns with their expectations.
Tip #4 - Price it appropriately and provide your payment terms
Determine the pricing based on factors like the complexity of the project, time required, and your skill level. Be transparent about the costs involved and establish payment terms, such as a deposit upfront and final payment upon completion.
Tip #5 - Sign a contract
Create a contract that outlines the project details, pricing, deadlines, revisions, copyright, and usage rights. This will protect both you and the client and help avoid misunderstandings.
Tip #6 - Maintain your communication open
Maintain open lines of communication throughout the project. Provide progress updates and ask for feedback regularly. Address any concerns or questions promptly and professionally.
Tip #7 - Provide visual sketches and drafts
Start with rough sketches or drafts and share them with the client for approval. This ensures that both parties are on the same page before investing time and effort in the final piece
Tip #8 - Manage revisions
Offer a reasonable number of revisions as part of your commission process. Clearly define the scope of revisions in your contract to avoid excessive changes that can consume time and resources.
Tip #9 - Quality and attention to detail
Invest time in perfecting your artwork and paying attention to details. A high-quality piece will leave a lasting impression on the client and increase the likelihood of repeat business or referrals.
Tip #10 - Deliver the final work
Once the piece is completed and approved by the client, deliver the final artwork in the agreed-upon format and/or resolution in case of digital works. Ensure that the client is satisfied with the outcome.
Tip #11 - Personalise the experience
Having nice details with customers such as a hand-written note can enhance your collector’s overall experience and make them purchase from you again in the near future.
Tip #12 - Follow up and request feedback
After the project is completed, follow up with the client to ensure they are happy with the final product. Ask for feedback and, if appropriate, request a testimonial or referral to help build your reputation and credibility or a picture of the work installed at their home!
By following these steps and maintaining a professional approach, you are set to have a great and trouble-freel art commission experience for you and your customers!
Let me know in the comments section your experience with art commissions!
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