Commission Example

Evolution of a commissioned painting with photographs below

I often simply work from photographs of specific places or produce more abstract work from emails/telephone/conversations. Sometimes clients are far away and the entire process is done remotely. In this instance, used as an example, the client was relatively local, so all our discussions were done in person.

This client had been inspired by my painting 'Monet's Dream' and wanted something similar but much more extensive and with specific colours.

- December: Initial discussions at client's house
- Photographs taken of the available space. Listening to ideas, hopes and dreams. Talking over concepts, colours. Looking at existing furnishings. Gathering swatches.
- Late December: Verbal go-ahead from client.
- January: Formal commission letter/contract sent - listing the size, timings, concept and money. On payment of a deposit of 50% - the contract starts.

In this case a bespoke canvas is ordered in, measuring 100x180cm
(The gallery standard canvases that I order are made using high-quality hardwood and are stretched with artists' grade 12oz cotton duck canvas. They use 'high grade' tulipwood stretchers which are fully expandable for precise tensioning of the artwork. Anything above 90cm is cross-braced). About ten days later the handmade canvas arrives and work begins.

The base of the painting needed to be grounded by the same colour as the delicious green velvet sofa below it. We wanted to combine the purples and pinks of waterlilies, but with flashes of orange, turquoise and green. Amber to match the client's eyes. A strong feminine work to go in the home office of a successful businesswoman, who also has three sons. This painting would represent her haven of femininity in a masculine world.

First the undercoat, then I used heavy structure gel and carvable paste to create the bones of the piece before any colour is applied. This is applied with a palatte knife.

Then the start of the layers of colour, which begin to build - see below. Paint is applied with a combination of palatte knifes, paint brushes and sprays. Indian and French inks are added with brushes and sponges. Bare hands play an integral part too!

- February: Client comes to the studio in Wellow to see the work. An uplifting and rather emotional meeting. It is often moving to see what you have thought and dreamed about (but sometimes have been unable to articulate), come to life in front of you. Client very happy - we agree on some tweaks and these are completed during the next week. Client is pleased to now accept delivery, without viewing of painting in person, having seen email photographs.

- March: Final invoice sent and the painting was delivered in person to the client's location. A very happy reception from the family.

The room has suddenly come together - looks amazing and the painting, now titled FREE FLOW, sits perfectly in it. Much delight and merriment. Fantastic clients, wonderful commission and a splendid result.