Art Commission
An Art Commission is when an artist is hired to create a specific piece of artwork based on a client's request. It's similar to a custom order, where the client pays the artist to create something unique for them. This could range from paintings and sculptures to digital art and illustrations. Artists who take commissions are essentially running their own small business, managing client relationships, negotiating prices, and delivering finished artwork according to specifications. This term often appears in portfolios and resumes of professional artists who create custom work for clients.
Examples in Resumes
Managed over 50 Art Commission projects annually for private collectors and corporate clients
Successfully completed high-value Art Commissions for local government buildings and public spaces
Developed streamlined process for handling multiple Commission Art projects simultaneously
Generated $50,000 in annual revenue through Commissioned Artwork sales
Typical job title: "Commission Artists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Commission Artists
Online Art Communities
Professional Networks
Art Market Places
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How do you handle difficult clients and manage expectations throughout a commission project?
Expected Answer: A senior artist should discuss their systematic approach to client communication, contract creation, milestone approvals, and conflict resolution. They should mention examples of turning challenging situations into successful outcomes.
Q: What is your process for pricing large-scale commissioned works?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of market rates, explain how they factor in materials, time, complexity, client budget, and usage rights. Should discuss negotiation strategies and handling deposit/payment schedules.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you manage multiple commission projects simultaneously?
Expected Answer: Should explain their project management system, how they prioritize work, maintain deadlines, and communicate progress to multiple clients. Should mention tools or methods they use to stay organized.
Q: What is your process for creating and maintaining a commission contract?
Expected Answer: Should discuss essential elements of their contracts including payment terms, revision policies, deadlines, and rights management. Should show understanding of protecting both artist and client interests.
Junior Level Questions
Q: How do you gather and interpret client requirements for a commission?
Expected Answer: Should describe their process for initial client consultations, collecting references, creating sketches, and getting approval before proceeding with final work.
Q: What is your typical workflow for a commissioned piece from start to finish?
Expected Answer: Should outline basic steps from initial contact to final delivery, including consultation, sketching, revisions, and completion. Should mention basic project timeline management.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic client communication
- Creating simple commission agreements
- Managing basic project timelines
- Producing consistent quality work
Mid (2-5 years)
- Managing multiple projects simultaneously
- Developing comprehensive contracts
- Setting appropriate pricing structures
- Building a strong client base
Senior (5+ years)
- Handling complex, high-value commissions
- Managing large-scale projects
- Training/mentoring other artists
- Advanced business management
Red Flags to Watch For
- No portfolio of completed commission work
- Inability to provide client references
- Poor communication skills or slow response times
- No clear process for handling commissions
- Lack of basic business practices (contracts, invoicing)
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Refining Job Descriptions to Expand Applicant Pools: Casting a Wider Talent Net
The Art of Selecting Great People: A Leader's Most Critical Skill
The Psychology of Job Descriptions: How AI Can Help Write Better Job Posts
