Collaborative Process of Creating Custom Artwork

Hiring an artist to create custom art is unfamiliar territory for most, so my goal is to make the process as easy and risk-free as possible. We’ll start with a phone or video conference so I can understand everything you are trying to achieve with this project.

Step 1 - Discussion and Proposal

We’ll go through examples of other works of art to narrow down the subject matter and style you are looking for. I’ll also need to understand the size and medium to provide the most accurate proposal possible.

Once I fully understand the project, you will receive a detailed proposal, which will include the price, payment schedule, expected project schedule, and what will be provided at the end of the process. Your input and approval will be needed for each step to ensure full satisfaction… no surprises.

Step 2 - Conceptual Sketch

The goal of this step is to get all the ideas on “paper” in a way they can be easily changed. I generally work on an iPad, so I can simulate the medium and colors. If the project is a large installation, I can add the sketch to a location photo, giving you a firm idea of the final appearance.

We can meet and discuss, then I’ll make changes. We’ll repeat the process until you are happy with the concept.

Step 3 - Compositional Layout

Once the conceptual sketch is approved, it is time for me to get busy pulling together references. This can involve physical costumes, models, photos, and props. I assemble everything on the computer to create the compositional layout. This is the image that will be transferred onto the canvas or whatever surface will be used for the final artwork. You will have an opportunity to review it first, to ensure that you like all of the elements, proportions, and overall composition.

Step 4 - Final Approval

Once the compositional layout is approved and transferred, the real work begins! I’ll keep you posted on the progress, but depending on the complexity of the project, it might be a stretch of time before you see anything. Even the best laid plans need to change from time-to-time. If some compositional elements aren’t working, and I have to significantly move away from the previous sketches and mock-ups, I’ll communicate with you about the changes. Again, no surprises.

Once the art has been finalized, you’ll be sent a photo for one final opportunity for tweaks. If an oil painting, it will need a month for it to fully cure. I will then varnish to lock-in the colors and value, and about a week later, your artwork will be delivered.

Rest assured, the goal is to provide you artwork that will delight you and exceed your expectations. My use of traditional media, like oil paint and glass mosaic tiles, and modern technology allow me to provide you a professional, effortless, and hopefully enjoyable experience. Please contact me at 806-206-3374 or paradisefoundstudio@gmail.com if you have any questions or want to get a project started.

To read more about the painting St. Maximilian Kolbe (shown in the examples above), I have written a detailed explanation of the step-by-step process.

If your project is a sacred subject or portrait of Jesus, the Holy Family, or a saint, it can involve painstaking research to include all the rich history and symbolism. Here is another article that breaks down all of the meaning behind the details of the St. Kolbe painting.