Commissioning Art from Philadelphia Artists: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to commission a piece of art from Philadelphia artists. Find the right artist, discuss your vision, and finalize the commission agreement for a successful project.

Commissioning Art from Philadelphia Artists: A Step-by-Step Guide

As an expert in the art world, I have had the pleasure of working with many talented artists in Philadelphia, PA. The city is known for its vibrant art scene, with a rich history and diverse community of artists. If you are interested in commissioning a piece of art from an artist in Philadelphia, there are a few important steps to follow. In this article, I will guide you through the process of commissioning art from Philadelphia artists, from finding the right artist to finalizing the commission.

Finding the Right Artist

The first step in commissioning a piece of art is finding the right artist for your project.

Philadelphia has a wide range of talented artists, each with their own unique style and medium. The best way to find an artist is by attending local art events and exhibitions, such as First Friday in Old City or Art for the Cash Poor in Northern Liberties. These events are great opportunities to meet and connect with Philadelphia artists and see their work in person. You can also search online for artists in Philadelphia, PA. Many artists have websites or social media pages where they showcase their work and provide contact information.

You can also check out online directories such as The Philadelphia Artist Directory, which features a comprehensive list of local artists.

Discussing Your Vision

Once you have found an artist whose work resonates with you, it's time to discuss your vision for the commission. This is an important step as it will help the artist understand your expectations and create a piece that meets your needs. During this initial meeting, be prepared to discuss the following:
  • Medium: What type of medium do you want the artwork to be created in? This could be anything from painting and sculpture to photography and digital art.
  • Size: What size do you envision for the piece? Keep in mind that larger pieces may come with a higher price tag.
  • Budget: It's important to discuss your budget with the artist upfront. This will help them determine what is feasible within your price range.
  • Inspiration: Do you have any specific ideas or inspiration for the piece? This could be a particular color scheme, theme, or subject matter.
  • Timeline: When do you need the piece to be completed? Keep in mind that creating a custom piece of art takes time, so be sure to discuss a realistic timeline with the artist.
It's also important to establish clear communication with the artist. Make sure you have their contact information and discuss how often you would like updates on the progress of the commission.

The Commission Agreement

Once you and the artist have discussed your vision for the commission, it's time to formalize the agreement.

This is an important step to protect both parties and ensure that everyone is on the same page. The commission agreement should include:

  • Description of the project: This should include details about the medium, size, and subject matter of the piece.
  • Timeline: The agreement should specify when the piece will be completed and any milestones along the way.
  • Budget: The agreed-upon budget should be clearly stated in the agreement.
  • Payment schedule: It's common for artists to require a deposit upfront and then receive the remaining payment upon completion of the piece. Make sure this is clearly outlined in the agreement.
  • Ownership and usage rights: The agreement should specify who will own the piece once it is completed and any usage rights for the artwork.
It's important to review the agreement carefully before signing and make sure all details are accurate. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with the artist before finalizing the agreement.

The Final Product

Once the commission is complete, it's time to see the final product. This is an exciting moment, as you will get to see your vision come to life through the artist's unique perspective and talent. If you are satisfied with the final product, it's time to make the final payment and take ownership of the piece.

If there are any minor changes or adjustments that need to be made, discuss them with the artist and come to an agreement before making the final payment.

Conclusion

Commissioning a piece of art from an artist in Philadelphia is a rewarding experience that allows you to support local talent and bring your vision to life. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful commission process. Remember to communicate clearly with the artist and establish a solid agreement to protect both parties. With so many talented artists in Philadelphia, PA, you are sure to find the perfect artist for your project.