Commissions - Original Art & Illustration by Jonathan Chapman Illustration by Jonathan Chapman

Private Commissions

I am available for private commissions. If you’re looking for an original piece of artwork, perhaps I can create a bespoke canvas or framed illustration for you? There are many reasons to commission work, some use it as an opportunity to celebrate a favourite location, illustrate a personal story or mark a special moment in their life… and they are often given as gifts for special occasions.

On this page you will find a rough guide to a couple of common formats and sizes, along with answers to frequently asked questions. You can also browse the blog for recent examples of commissioned artwork here. Size, deadline and budget are the three key questions… If you can give me an idea of two of these I can usually quote and provide some options.

Use this contact form to start discussing your ideas or drop me aline using the details at the bottom of the page.

Studio availability: Busy, but booking projects through the year (updated 12th Feb 2024)

Enquiry Form

A few of my favourite examples!

Gift Canvas – Florence Triptych
Paper Diorama – Temples & Torii Gates
Framed Painting – Bamburgh
Feature Canvas – Sunset Over Zug

What’s your process?

First i’ll gather all the information for the project. That can be emails and photographs, a conversation over the phone or a video call (if you’d like to see the studio!). We’ll agree a price for the project and i’ll send you a commission agreement.

I like to create quite a detailed sketch, so we both have an understanding of the size and composition. You’ll have opportunity to request amendments or suggest additional details before any painting begins.

Then i’ll go ahead with the bulk of the studio work, creating the painting and getting it as close to finished as I can. There will be another opportunity to tweak any details before I commit to framing or varnishing the artwork.

What materials do you use?

The majority of my paintings are created with acrylic paints with added ink details drawn over the top. I have also worked with graphite, coloured pencils and collage.

Is there a limit to size or shape?

No, anything goes, although certain sizes and shapes will look best for different purposes. If you’re not certain, but have a wall space in mind, i’d be happy to make suggestions.

I can build custom canvases to almost any size here in the studio. The majority of framing I do here but I can also recommend specialist framers if it’s required.

How long do projects take?

The painting stage is usually 2-4 weeks depending on how busy the studio is. If the painting is a gift and you have an occasion in mind do let me know. It’s never too early to start the conversation and i’m used to discussing ideas and producing sketches sometimes months in advance.

How much do commissions cost?

Each project is quoted individually but there are some rough estimates above. Costs will vary depending on the complexity of the image and how busy the studio is. I may ask for a higher fee if the deadline is short (it always pays to make early enquiries!). Materials, delivery and any travel expenses will be identified before work begins. Most of the cost is due to the number of studio hours required to finish each piece, the larger canvases containing anything from 60 to 100 hours of work.

Will I need to pay a deposit?

I often ask for a small deposit to cover those initial materials, usually £20 – £100 but may be higher if specialist materials are required.

How do I pay you?

A final invoice will be raised once the work is complete and ready for delivery. I can accept payments via bank transfer, credit card, Paypal or cheque. If you’d like to spread the cost I can now arrange a monthly Direct Debit with GoCardless.

Can you paint from a photograph?

Yes, although it is used as reference and the finished painting is never an exact copy. If you can’t find suitable images I can research them for you using online resources, or arrange for a location visit to collect reference photos and/or sketches in person.

Visiting the site or subject isn’t vital, but I do enjoy travelling so i’m always happy to discuss making a trip part of the project… we can walk the ground and I can share more of the sketches and photos that contribute towards the final artwork(s).

Can I make suggestions?

Yes, I use the same process for all my projects whether private or commercial. There are natural points at which your input is encouraged. Any references you can provide will help to make your piece unique.

What if I don’t want to be involved?
I want the big reveal to be a surprise!

No problem, i’m a confident and creative artist who can motor along under his own steam.

What if I don’t like the work?

Hopefully you have seen the style of my artwork before commissioning and will appreciate it for what it is. If the work isn’t to your liking, I will try to revise the piece within the terms of the agreement.

If you do wish to cancel the artwork, a fee will be charged according to the stage of production. The full terms and conditions are available on request and will always be provided as part of any commission agreement.

I don’t know where to start?

It can be very daunting, but most of my favourite projects have been working with clients on private commissions! I’m always happy to chat. Feel free to start a conversation with the details below or using the quick contact form above.

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