Commissions
I love when someone asks for a more personal piece of art from me. Whether it’s a landscape drawing or a portrait, it will no doubt push me to be a better artist. Still using charcoal as my preferred medium, every commissioned piece brings its exciting challenges. Several people have asked for color, and while that would get me out of my comfort zone, it’s not my style… at least not yet.
Pet portraits have become a very popular request from me. The first one I drew started as just a normal portrait until the subject’s horse was added to the picture and since then I have had all sorts of requests. While dogs and cats are very popular, I enjoy working on any animal as each drawing has been unique. I also began drawing houses in college as a thank you to everyone who let me use their land for inspiration and now that has become another common request.
If framing is requested, I try to match a frame that will complement the personal drawing. I take pride in staying up to date with the latest professional practices and making sure I am using professional-grade equipment and materials.
Below is a step-by-step process for commissioning your drawing.
My Process
First, you will need to decide on the size drawing you are interested in and how many subjects you want to be included. Below is a chart with the most popular requested sizes and a price guide, but a quote will be given after I have all the details of your request. If you are unsure, I can always recommend an appropriate size based on reference photos and where you wish to display your drawing. Once you have decided on a size, I will confirm the details of your commission before I start drawing.
Once the size and number of subjects have been decided, I will need good-quality reference photos. The more photos, the better. The best reference photos are the ones that capture the character of the subject(s) through facial expressions or positions, are taken in good lighting, and preferably where I can see their eyes. I usually can draw the subject into the position you are requesting or put different subjects together if I have several images but I may also request additional photos if necessary. Below is an example of using different photos to create a single drawing.
The next step is to book your commission! I do require a non-refundable 1/3 deposit to begin drawing, but this will go towards the total cost of the commission. Let me know in advance if your drawing(s) are needed by specific dates, but I will not start until a deposit is made. I always do my very best to get commissions completed and delivered before the requested deadline. Once I confirm the final details and receive the deposit, I will begin drawing and provide photo updates throughout the process. If for any reason anything needs to be changed, please let me know as soon as possible. The exact time it takes for me to complete the drawing will depend on the details of the commission. I will provide completed photos for final review and once you are 100% satisfied with your drawing, the remaining balance can be paid. I will also give a selection of matte boards to choose from or suggest which may be best if you have your own frames in mind.
If framing was discussed, then in addition to giving you a selection of matte boards to pick from, I will also ask what frame color/look you were going for and I may be able to show some examples. Typically the most common frames I use are solid black, but depending on the drawing I will use whichever frame style you choose.
For local commissions, I can discuss delivery or pickup options, but for commissions outside the Lake Norman NC area, we will need to discuss shipping options. I will ask for a shipping address and will provide tracking and the expected ship date.
After you receive your drawing, all that’s left is to let me know what you think!
