Commissioning a painting is a unique and collaborative process. It blends what you bring - your ideas, stories, and inspiration - with what I can visualise and create from them. Not every commission will be the right fit, and that’s completely okay.

Many artists choose not to take commissions at all, and that’s simply part of their creative practice. I’m one of the few who genuinely enjoys the challenge of bringing someone else’s vision to life. There’s something incredibly rewarding about translating your concept into a finished artwork.

One of the most important parts of this process is honesty — both in knowing my own artistic limits and in making sure you feel confident in my style and approach. I can’t promise magic, but I can promise dedication, skill, and the potential for truly beautiful work. If my style resonates with you, then we’re already off to a great start.

So let’s be upfront. Share your idea with me. Let’s brainstorm together and see if we’re imagining the same direction. If we are, we can move into the design and visual development phase. And if it turns out we’re not aligned, that’s perfectly fine — we can part ways with clarity and no hard feelings.

How to Commission a Painting

1. Let’s chat about your idea

You’re welcome to email me or meet in person to talk through what you’re imagining. Bring along any photos or inspiration you have, and together we’ll shape a shared vision. We’ll also cover the medium, process, size, budget, and an estimated timeline.

2. Gathering reference photos

If you already have high‑quality photos (and permission from the photographer), I can work from those.
If not, I can take my own reference photos — this often leads to the best results. We’ll agree on any photoshoot fee beforehand, and you’ll receive full‑resolution copies of both the original and edited images.

3. Agreement and initial fee

I’ll prepare an agreement for us both to sign. A non‑refundable materials/design fee is required before I begin. This covers initial time, materials, and any photography costs.
If the artwork is a drawing or watercolour directly from your photo, the agreement will require a 50% deposit before I start.

4. Design stage

After the photoshoot (or once we’ve chosen your reference images), I’ll create studies of the final composition. When we’re both happy with the direction, I’ll provide a final quote and contract, with a 50% deposit required to continue.
If at this stage we realise the vision isn’t aligning, either of us can step back — the materials/design fee remains non‑refundable.

5. Creating your artwork

Timeframes vary depending on size and medium. I’ll keep you updated with progress photos, especially as the piece nears completion. With your permission, I may share a few sneak peeks on social media. You’re welcome to request tweaks along the way.

6. Final payment

Once the artwork is complete and any requested adjustments are made, I’ll send a final invoice for the remaining balance.

7. Drying and varnishing (for oil paintings)

Oil paintings need around three months to dry before they can have a 'touch up' varnished. Ideally, the artwork stays with me during this time, but if you need to collect it earlier, we can arrange that.
About a year later, a full varnish can be applied. I’m happy to organise this for you — it’s also a great opportunity for a gentle clean or touch‑up if needed.

8. Delivery

Delivery is included in the price. I love delivering the finished piece in person, but we can make alternative arrangements if required.

9. Sharing the final moment

I always enjoy seeing clients with their finished artwork. If you’d like to share a photo and some feedback, feel free to email it through. With your permission, I may include it in my client testimonials.