FAQ’s on Commission Process
How does it usually work?
Client submits an inquiry form here.
The artist respond in 1-2 weeks to follow up with any additional questions.
Set up onboarding meeting(s) to discuss the commission, terms of the contract, and any logistics depending on the nature of the work.
Contract is signed by both parties. Production commences after a deposit, 75% of the total budget, is cleared.
Client will receive a prelim design of the artwork to review and approve. One revision to incorporate any requested changes is included.
Client will receive an update when project is 50% completed, another when it is 80% completed, and another when the project is finished.
Shipping is arranged and calculated for costs. The artwork will be shipped once the rest of the payment is cleared (25% remaining of the commission and shipping charges) along with a certificate of authenticity.
Do you accept payment in installments? What forms of payment do you accept?
Commissions under $3,000 are accepted in 2 installments: 75% as deposit, and 25% to complete the project. Commissions over $3,000 can be broken up in 3 installments: 50% of the budget as deposit, 25% at 50% completion, and the remaining 25% when the artwork is finished.
I accept payments via Zelle, Paypal, Venmo, and personal checks.
Is there a minimum/maximum budget for a commission?
My usual range for a personal commission (ordered as gift or heirloom) is between $500-5000. I’ve worked on commissions over $20,000 and upward of six figures for exhibition and public art projects, so there is no maximum.
How long does it usually take?
It really depends on the nature of the commission, some only take a couple of weeks, some a couple of months, rarely a couple of years (in the case of public art projects). Personal, small-scaled commissions are usually completed in 4-6 weeks provided all materials are easily accessible. However, there have been special commissions where clients need to send over a specific material, or be present for a sculpting/painting session, etc. so those logistics can add to the length of the process.
Is there a medium/artwork you won’t accept?
As a multidisciplinary artist, I work in all media and will advise clients if I feel the need to involve other contractors or fabricators. I do not accept commissions that endorse hate, discrimination, forgery, and pornographic intents.
Do you offer delivery and/or installation?
If you reside locally in Southern California, I can offer in-person delivery and installation service for an additional fee. I can also recommend professional art handlers and installers for your needs. All artworks come with instructions for maintenance and installation.
What comes with the artwork?
You will receive the artwork in its storage box along with a certificate of authenticity, statement of value, and a manual instruction for maintenance. I recommend you save the box for storage/future shipment.
What if the artwork gets damaged during shipment or installation?
I always recommend clients purchase shipping insurance for artworks in case the package is damaged or lost in transit. It’s usually quite affordable. In 10 years of working, I haven’t encountered issues of damages as I pack my works very carefully following museum standards.
I always recommend clients to pay for professional installation unless it is me and my team who handle the installation.
Do you offer any warranty?
Once the artwork leaves the studio, I cannot offer any warranty as there is no way to ensure the work is handled properly once it leaves my hands. For this reason, I highly recommend getting professional installers and shipping insurance.
Similarly, I offer the client the chance to revise the initial design and review the commission along the process to ensure they are completely satisfied with the work.
How long have you been making art?
I started working as a professional artist at 18-year-old, doing commissioned portraits in pastel, charcoal, and acrylic. I put aside my art business for a decade to obtain my college degree and pursue a career in publishing and marketing. I resumed my art business full-time in 2016 (you can read about my works here) as an artist, educator, certified coach, and art curator.
For my clients, I bring my expertise as a professional artist and curator to help them realize their vision. I highly value trust and communication. I pride myself in gifting my clients not only with a beautiful, unique artwork but also a positive, meaningful experience that will last a lifetime.