What is a commissioned artwork?
A commissioned artwork is an original piece tailored specifically for you! Commissioned pieces are typically focused on a subject matter requested by the client and make wonderful additions to private art collections, home decor and make beautifully thoughtful gifts.
Things to consider before requesting a commissioned artwork….
While a commissioned artwork is at the liberty of the client, it is important to understand that the style of the piece does not change from the artists personal style and all requested subject matter will be painted in the style known and practiced by the artist. To best judge if an artists style is right for you, look at the artists portfolio of previous works. For a commissioned piece by Lani Amelia, each portrait will be painted in a traditional fashion, typically with her signature deep toned backgrounds.
How long do commissions take?
An artwork is much like a snowflake, all unique with no two the same. Many factors contribute to an artworks completion time, such as the size of the piece, the number of faces (human or otherwise), and the sheer complexity of the artwork itself. An estimated time will be given when a quote has been completed and the reference image has been supplied.
What is the process of getting a commissioned piece?
First step, contact me requesting a quote. I will reply to you as soon as humanly possible and we will discuss your ideas and plans for your piece. Once we’ve talked about size, number of people in the piece (for portraits) and complexity of the work, I will send you a personalised quote. If you would like me to get your piece custom framed at my local framers, please don’t hesitate to ask! I would be more than happy to go the extra mile to save you the trouble of picking framing. I will add the framing costs to the final invoice.
Second step, the reference photo. I work from high quality images, these can either be existing images supplied to me or if within or near Sydney, I can take the image for you! (note: a call out fee will be charged for this). It is of the utmost importance that I emphasise how crucial image quality is to the overall piece. As a realism artist, it is always best when I can clearly see the iddy-biddy details in a photo to capture in the artwork. If an image is either of too low a resolution or compositionally poor, I will kindly suggest we choose a nicer photo as I want your piece to be the best it can possibly be. Lighting is key when choosing an image for a painting. I strongly recommend photos with flat, even lighting be tossed out the window and photos with visible contrasts between shadows and the light source be chosen instead.
Third step, beginning the piece. Once a deposit has been cleared (25% of total amount), I’ll be on my merry way to pick up any materials needed for your piece. I cut and make my own wood boards, all of which beyond a certain size are reinforced with a wooden frame backing and primed with multiple layers of sealer and acrylic paint. I then spend time sketching the piece and finally begin the actual painting.
Once the painting is completed, I allow the piece to dry for a few weeks untouched. Whilst certain varnishes can be applied when touch dry, I find it best to allow the piece to have as much time as possible to sit and cure as oil paints are easily prone to movement. After this period, I will varnish the piece. The varnish dries quickly, typically within 48hrs.
It is at this stage that the piece is ready for its new home! Once the outstanding balance has been paid, I will pack up the little fella nice and secure, and post it to you. If you live in or around Sydney, I’d be more than happy to personally deliver your special piece right to your door!
Do you paint animals?
Yes, absolutely I do! As an avid animal lover and a keen cow enthusiast, and also the proud owner of a handsome English Staffy named Buddy, I understand how important our little furry friends are to us. Animal portraits are a wonderful change of pace for me as I typically do human portraiture and would love a change of scenery now and again. Our pets deserved to be remembered forever in oil just as we would do for a family member, after all, they are family.
Get a quote today!
Thinking about a custom, hand-made commissioned artwork? Let’s chat!