Plan commissioned paintings from subject to handover
A commission may be a portrait, animal painting, landscape, abstract work or coherent series. An on-site mural differs from a transportable painting. Describe the idea, number of works, dimensions, use and handover. Choose an artistic approach through relevant work; price alone does not define the eventual picture.
Choose subject and artistic approach together
Describe what should appear and the mood you want. Realism, simplification and free interpretation create different expectations. Artists do not all offer every style or copying service. Review relevant examples and agree creative freedom. A concept or sketch can be a separate initial commission.
| Commission | Clarify before starting |
|---|---|
| Single painting | Subject, style and dimensions |
| Series | Count, sizes and relationship |
| Mural | Surface, substrate and on-site work |
State count and dimensions clearly
State the exact number of paintings or murals. Allocate dimensions to each work in a series. Width, height and unit distinguish painted area from the outer framed size. If format is undecided, describe available space and request a proposal. For murals add substrate condition, height and usable access.
Agree references, sketches and changes
An idea, sketch and photograph are different inputs. For portraits, agree suitable references or a sitting later; private photos are not mandatory initially. Define composition, colours, included revisions and approval before painting. Changes after work begins may add material and time.
Align technique, support and setting
Oil, acrylic or watercolour can be preferences rather than a technical diagnosis. Ask for a suitable recommendation. Canvas, paper, panels and existing walls need different preparation. Mention moisture, direct sunlight or outdoor use before choosing materials. Frame, protection and hanging depend on the actual work; no technique alone guarantees unlimited life.
Clarify intended use and rights
Describe private display, business premises or use of the image on websites, print or products. Delivery and agreed usage rights are separate points. Clarify rights to photographs and third-party references too. Agree the artist’s public display of the work and personal references, edits, attribution and exclusivity for intended uses.
Compare the complete commission
Count, format, detail, design work and materials affect effort. Compare the same idea and included work. Frames, stretchers, packing, transport and hanging may have different boundaries. Extra sketches or usage rights may be separate. A specific supplier tariff is not a Swiss average; unspecified delivery is not free.
| Quote item | Comparison question |
|---|---|
| Design | Are concept, revisions and approval included? |
| Artwork | Same count, size, technique and finish? |
| Handover | Are frame, packing, delivery and hanging agreed? |
Separate completion from handover timing
Approved concept, painted surface and transport-ready work are distinct milestones. Materials and execution may require drying or further finishing. For gifts state the actual handover date and confirm what is feasible. On site agree access, protection and appropriate hanging. Shipping, collection and installation are not interchangeable.
Checklist through acceptance
Prepare subject, count, known sizes, use, style and timing. Then agree concept, responsibilities, price scope and approvals in writing. At handover check execution, frame, hanging or transport condition and open items. Care, payment stages and changes depend on the work and individual contract.
Frequently asked questions
Is commissioned painting only portraits?
No. Animal paintings, landscapes, abstract works, series and murals depend on the artist’s scope.
Must technique and size already be fixed?
State known dimensions or describe available space and request a suitable proposal.
Are framing and hanging automatically included?
No. Define finish, packing, delivery and hanging explicitly.
How should a series be counted?
Count individual works with their sizes; a triptych has three panels.
Can I use the image in advertising later?
Agree that use and suitable rights for its medium and scope; delivery does not settle every later use.
Can everything change after painting starts?
Agree changes and confirm extra work, materials and timing before execution.
