Specially Commissioned
Original Paintings
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"Specially commissioned paintings are something I have a good deal of experience with. Over the years I've developed a very good, virtually foolproof system of creating artworks in collaboration with clients and collectors.  I understand that my clients want me to bring all my skills and imagination to their project. However, I also realize that ultimately my job is to give my clients what "they" want. And the key to a success result lies in good communication.  I keep my clients well informed and involved throughout the process.

When it comes to pricing, I use a combination of factors. Pricing --at least for me-- is no arbitrary thing. My prices aren't based on how much I think I can get away with. Nor are they dictated solely by size. Rather, I consider things like the complexity and difficulty of the subject matter and the estimated time and effort required for completion. All these are calculated and weighed against the prices I’ve “actually received” for comparable works in the recent past.

My practice is to provide a written estimate in advance and I never exceed my high estimate. Most importantly, the project is not complete until my client is satisfied. The following explains my commission process. It’s fairly straightforward, and has resulted in a long list of happy clients:

1) If you're interested in discussing a possible commission, simply call, email or or send me a letter outlining what you have in mind.  Include photos, notes, rough sketches or anything else that might communicate what you have in mind. If there is a particular size you're wanting,  or a budget you need to stay in, those would be helpful as well.  I'll do a bit of brainstorming, knock out a rough sketch or two and send you a "ballpark estimate" for your approval prior to proceeding. 

 2) If you think I'm on the right track and agree to my initial estimate, I will next create a full sized drawing showing the layout and placement of all major elements. I will mail a copy of it to you for your feedback (if you live close enough we can arrange to meet in person to discuss). Once you approve this final layout, I will draft a simple written agreement and request a down payment (usually 50%) prior to the start of painting.

3) I will gladly email you photos of the painting as it progresses. This is especially helpful to me on any project that involves unusual requests or special effects. However, some people prefer to simply wait and be surprised.

4) I work the painting to the point of "near completion" then offer it to you for your approval (if you live too far away to come view it in person I will send numerous high-resolution photos prior to shipping). Typically final payment is expected at the time of delivery. However, the process doesn't necessarily end here. 

You are encouraged to hang the painting in your home for a few days, weeks or months. I think it's important for you to be able to experience the painting on your own walls, under your own lighting and have ample time for examination and evaluation.

Later, at a time of your choosing, you may elect to return the painting to me for any final corrections or changes.  You may (within reason) designate anything you want added, removed, altered, enhanced etc. The only exception being the relocation/ addition/ removal of major elements (houses, trees, roads etc).  Such requests at this advanced stage are rarely possible without starting over. However, this has never been a problem in the past since the placement of all major elements would have been mutually agreed well in advance.

Anyway, that's basically it. If you want to proceed with a new painting I will be happy to work with you. I'm sure I'll enjoy working with you!"

Randy

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