Frequently Asked Commission Questions
This is how your artwork will look when you open it!
All ready to get shipped out!
Q: How do I commission you to do something for me?
A: It's simple! We will discuss the size, medium (so oil paint, graphite, colored pencil, etc if you have a preference), deadlines (if applicable), payment type, and your overall expectations of the commission. I ask you to email the reference photos for your piece to my email at MelissaConleyArtist@Gmail.com. If there is any issues with the references not being able to be used or needing more, I will send a reply and let you know! After you make contact and we discuss the details, I’ll require you to pay the deposit!
Q: How Do I Pay You? And When?
A: I accept all forms of electronic payments! Paypal, Venmo, and I can also send you an invoice using the business app, Stripe - which will send an invoice straight to your email and you can then choose to pay via bank transfer, debit, credit, etc! I ask for a deposit up front. Most people choose to pay half up front and half once the drawing/painting is finished. However if you are doing a payment plan, this deposit will just be your first payment. As a reminder you can take as much or as little time as needed to pay off the desired work, but none of the art will be shipped until it has been paid in full!
Q: How much does a commission cost?
A: The price will vary depending on the size and if you need more customization options. That would include if you had a preference for more lush materials such as oil on linen, or custom sizes, and/or having multiple subjects in your piece. But all of my sizes and prices can be found here!
Q: Your prices seem too high for me, but I still want to own your art. What can I do?
A: At the end of the day an original art piece isn’t for everyone! Unfortunately I cannot lower my prices, but I do occasionally have sales or clearance older originals that I don’t have space for in my home. If you find those to still be too much for you, buying prints is a great option! They are low cost (about $40 for a 9x12”). I also offer payment plan options for people who may need some time to work toward paying off artwork!
Q: What size do I pick?
A: My most popular sizes are 8”x10” and 11”x14”. But this will vary between clients. Consider where you want to display your artwork and what your budget allows. I also recommend going larger if you have a commission with multiple subjects or if you are wanting to include the full body. It can be extremely difficult to cram a lot of small parts into an already small surface area. If I think it’s too small for the subject, I will recommend the appropriate size or we can come up with another plan for the artwork. If you are unsure, just ask me!
Also, I often recommend my clients visit a frame shop or stores like Michael's, AC Moore, or Aaron Brothers to get an idea of the sizes available and see how large or small they are incase you are not sure. This is especially beneficial if you plan on framing your artwork later on but cannot afford custom framing, as it can be more expensive. Choosing a "standard" frame size will help you find a frame that fits your artwork.
Q: What about shipping?
A: Shipping is free for all US domestic clients. If you are international, you may be eligible for free shipping depending on the size of the artwork. But some countries are more expensive to ship to and you could expect to pay an additional $20-$50 for small pieces and $100-$200+ for very large, heavy paintings. If you’re not sure, you can message me directly and I can let you know!
Q: How do you ship the artwork?
A: All drawings come matted and sealed in an archival, self-sealing, plastic bag. They are then wrapped neatly with tissue paper. I sandwich that in between two sturdy pieces of cardboard, put that into a plastic, waterproof envelope I also tape all the edges as well as an extra precaution to prevent any water damage when it’s in transit.
IF your art does get damaged in the process please let me know IMMEDIATELY. I always insure the artwork and can reimburse you if the damage is severe (photo proof is required). This is all specified in the Agreement Contract here.
Q: What is the turnaround time for a commission?
A: This primarily depends on how many commissions I have in my queue at the time, how large your piece is, the medium I’m using, and how detailed the subject is! I’m able to give a more definitive answer if I talk to you! Generally I can complete an 8”x10” colored pencil portrait of a dog or cat in approximately 3-4 days, to give you an idea.
Other questions that I didn't answer? Please email me at MelissaConleyArtist@Gmail.com to address further questions and concerns! I am always happy to help and am quick to reply.