Commissions
I believe special memories make for beautiful paintings.
That’s why I’m so passionate about commissioned artwork.
A commissioned artwork should be more meaningful, exciting, and thrilling than any other picture or painting you have bought.
However, commissioning artwork can be intimidating and confusing.
That’s why I strive to make the process as affordable, transparent and fun as I can.
To that end, I’ve prepared some information on this page that should give you confidence about commissioning. The information is split into these short sections:
- What makes for a good commission?
- How does the commissioning process work?
- How much do they cost?
- Common myths about commissions.
- Examples of commissions I’ve done recently.
Suffice to say, I’d be delighted to work with you on turning a special memory into a beautiful painting.
In the meantime, if you have any questions, however silly they might seem, please feel free to e-mail me (scottbrenmanstudio@gmail.com). I’d be very happy to discuss your ideas.
1. What makes for a good commission?
The best way to think about a commission is in terms of cherished memories. At the core, every commission celebrates a special memory.
That special memory could be:
The first pet you ever loved.
The stadium you call home.
The venue for your special day.
The view that silenced you.
The photo where no-one blinked.
Or possibly some combination, or perhaps something completely different! Each commission is utterly unique. That's what makes them so special.
If you’d like to see examples of some of the commissions I’ve worked on for my clients, please scroll to the bottom this page or visit my Instagram page for the most up-to-date examples www.instagram.com/scottbrenmanstudio
2. How does the commissioning process work?
Step 1: Back and Forth
The first stage of a commission is a relaxed chat. You might have a clear idea of what you want, or you might still be working it out. It doesn’t matter. In this initial chat my aim is to see if I can do justice to your ideas and intentions. The chat most often takes the form of a back-and-forth on e-mail. I’ll only accept a commission if I think I can create something wonderful for you.
Step 2: Options and Costs
Once we’ve had an initial chat, I’ll prepare you a recommendation. I try to include a few options in my recommendations. For example, I’ll give you the option of different canvas sizes and/or the choice of framed or unframed.
A painting will take a minimum of four weeks and a framed print a minimum of three. I do my best to accommodate quick turnarounds where I can. When timings are tight, I can often get an illustration ready and printed on to a card for you to give on a birthday/anniversary/wedding day with the promise of a finished painting/print to follow.
Step 3: Invoice and Deposit
Once we’ve agreed the form the commission will take, I will send you an invoice for 50% of the total amount. The remaining 50% is due once I’ve delivered the final piece and you’re happy with it. I accept bank transfers or PayPal and all my quotes include the cost of shipping, so there are no hidden or unexpected extras. Once I’ve received the deposit, I get to work!
Step 4: Mock-up and Check-in
For all commissions I start by creating a digital illustration. This helps me get a feel for the colours and the composition of a commission. Once I’m happy with the illustration, I’ll e-mail it to you. At this stage you’ll have a very clear idea of how the final piece will look and yet this is also the best time for you to make any comments or suggestions. Once we’re both happy, I move to the next stage.
Step 5: Painting and Framing
If you’ve commissioned a painting, I’ll get going and send you regular photos and updates via WhatsApp or e-mail. If you’ve commissioned a print, I’ll send you a photo of the finished piece.
Step 6: Delivery and Final Payment
When I’ve finished, I’ll send you a photo so you know what the final piece looks like. I then carefully wrap the painting or print and arrange a convenient time for delivery. If you live close, I prefer to deliver myself. If it’s further away, I’ll use Parcel Force or DPD. Once you’ve received the painting or print, and you’re happy, I’ll then send you the final invoice for the remaining 50%. And that’s it!
3. How much do they cost?
4. Common myths about commissions.
- They’re too expensive.
My aim is for you to treasure your commission forever. If you take a lifetime view, your commission represents incredible value for money.
- I won’t get any input.
Every commission is a collaboration and a partnership. We agree the composition at the start and I share my progress as I go.
- I only get to see it at the end.
I hate surprises. That’s why I create a digital illustration for you to look at before I start painting. That way you know what the painting will look like and can suggest any changes.
- I’ve left it too late.
Even if time is tight, I can often quickly have a digital illustration created and printed on to a card for you to give on someone’s birthday/anniversary/wedding day with the promise of the painting to follow.
- I don’t have any inspiration.
Nonsense! If you have a place, pet or person that makes you feel special, then you have something worthy of a painting. I truly believe that special memories make for beautiful paintings.
