What is “commissioned artwork,” anyway?
If you’ve been lovely enough to follow along on my creative journey so far, you know that my business is comprised of two components: my personal artwork, including my upcoming Summer Collection (to be released August, 2021), and commissioned work. “What exactly is a commissioned piece of artwork?” you might be asking yourself.
Well, let me tell you.
A commissioned piece of art is made just for you. It’s a gorgeous exchange between the artist and their collector, in which the artist is hired to create a unique piece of artwork just for that one person. In my business, this means that particular piece of work cannot be replicated for further sales. It is a one of a kind piece of art that belongs solely to that one lucky collector. No one else gets to hang it on their walls, no one else gets to drink their morning coffee while contemplating its depths and meaning… it is a very special purchase, that will hopefully live with you for many years to come.
As you might imagine, an enormous amount of my time and energy goes into each commissioned piece, which can sometimes be exhausting but only in the best way possible. I adore a challenge, which commissions always seem to be for me. Because I want them to be so special, and personal, for that one particular collector, I put a lot of pressure on myself. I have to be fully inspired by something - be it a song, a piece of literature, something in nature, an old photograph… - before I can begin the planning process. Once I have a direction in mind, I start sketching, creating journal entries, playing with colour palettes, etc.
If you’d like more information on how to acquire one of my custom pieces, including some detailed steps to take while deciding on whether or not a commissioned piece is the right fit for you, be sure to check out my commissions information guide.
If you’re thinking to yourself, “wow… that sounds lovely and all Alex, but it also sounds expensive.” here is something to consider. Yes, there is no doubt that a commissioned piece of artwork might feel like a bit of an investment. But that’s because it is an investment. A commissioned piece, in my opinion, is the most special way to collect art. Let me expand a little on this point.
A commission is created, typically, for a particular space and person in mind. Maybe you just renovated and have a blank wall that needs a little soul. Or you live in an old house that is packed full of character and needs a painting that can calm things down a bit. Or you have this wildly awkward spot above your mantel that you just can’t seem to find the right piece for. A commission can fix that problem. All of those problems. When you work one-on-one with an artist, you get to choose the exact size of the canvas, the colour palette and, of course, the overall theme/vibe. Don’t get me wrong, the artist will still ultimately be the one creating the work and will make their own mark, but you are likely choosing to commission a particular artist because you connect with their style and trust that they will create something that you’ll love for years to come.
I believe whole heartedly that a commissioned piece of artwork is valued by its’ owner far more than generic artwork (no matter how pretty it may be) or even a wall full of photographs. Because you, as the collector, are investing in this unique piece, it will likely be hung in a very special spot of your home. You are likely going to display it where you can enjoy it regularly, and will think of the wonderful exchange you and the artist had during its creation. Maybe it was commissioned to mark a special milestone or event in your life. Maybe you commissioned a piece for your partner, for a birthday or anniversary. Maybe your child just bought their first home and you want to buy them a meaningful, elevated gift to congratulate them on such a huge milestone!
As the artist, I can’t even begin to express what a delight it is to create a piece for one specific person or family. Knowing that my heart and soul (in the form of my paintings) get to have a special little spot in their lives is a very special opportunity. If any of you know me, you know how much I adore interior design. Being able to contribute to, and enhance, the homes of my collectors is what inspires me to sell my work.
So, if you’re considering a commissioned piece of artwork for yourself or as a gift, take a minute to check out my commission package. It’s free and available for anyone to refer to. I hope this post, along with my info page, helps shed some light on the value of a commissioned piece of art!