A Guide to Commissions

 

I believe special memories make for beautiful paintings.

That’s why I’m so passionate about commissioned artwork.

A commissioned artwork should be as meaningful and exciting as any artwork you ever purchase.

They certainly make for amazing birthday, anniversary, wedding and housewarming gifts.

To make things easier to digest, I've organised my offering into six types of commission:

1. Landscape Paintings
2. Travel Montages
3. Vintage Movie Posters
4. Building Paintings
5. Pet Portraits
6. Travel Tag Posters

Each of these has its own webpage with details of costs, timings and examples. (You can also see photos and videos of my work on Instagram) www.instagram.com/scottbrenmanstudio 

However in broader terms, my aim is to make every commission as accessible and fun as I can.

To that end, I've written a short guide to commissions (below) that I hope will increase confidence and understanding.

The information is split into three short sections:

1. 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.

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. For a more detailed indication of costs, please check out the individual webpage for your chosen type of commission (you can navigate there from the menu at the top of this page).

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!