Robin Damore: I'm always looking for what makes the subject who they are––what’s most beautiful about them, spending time and photographing them, I get to know what I think about who they are. Then I'm looking to capture that in a photograph and then the photograph really informs the painting. It's not a copy of the photograph, but it's a really good guide. -------------------------------- Over the years, these artists have learned a thing or two about the commission process and offer up advice to art lovers who may be interested in pursuing a custom piece. Good resource and background material is always helpful. Photography or details about the person, animal, place or event will help them convey the story and likeness in their work. Some will prefer to set up a photoshoot to make sure they're starting with the right resource material. Others may want to come scout the location where the art will be hung or to gather details through interview-style conversations. Beyond the resources, artists who do commissions want collectors to be a part of the process. They welcome input, questions and feedback to ensure they're capturing the vision.
"The Desert Duo" by Barbara Rudolph
"Dream Big" by Pete Tillack
"Equestrian" by Robin Damore
Of course, a successful reveal is the goal of every commission, and to get there each artist has a process that’s as unique as their work. Pete tillack: Although most have seen my work and have listened to the stories, there’s a fear some collectors have [about commissioning work]. So I’ll create a digital representation of the piece so there’s a visual of where it’s going to go. They know they’re going to get what they want. I use that as a reference to paint the piece. I try to allow them to see all the processes as it goes forward. It’s a great process. It’s fun. And I create something special for each collector. Isabelle Posillico: I work closely with them. I’ll give them a drawing or sketch, or if they have a piece I’ve already created that they like, I can give them other options for stones. Kirk Randle: I try to diffuse any anxiousness. For first- time commissions, they're not quite sure where it’s going or what they're getting, so try to diffuse all of that. I remind them
I’ll bring them through the process. That means I'll be sending texts and photos as the piece is being produced so they can see how the painting is progressing and provide feedback. I want their input because it's their painting. It's not mine. "I think there has to be some kind of connection and story between you and who you are painting. I've found I can create that as I'm painting them. " ~ Ted nuttall -------------------------------- The entire process of putting a custom work together is often deeply rewarding for the artist and the collector. From the discovery process to the final reveal, commissioning artwork often results in a lifelong friendship and a special artifact that is cherished for generations.
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Issue 3 | Winter 2023
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