Commissions have turned out to be a fun part of my business. By their nature they create a dialogue with the customers and are special because they are targeted for someone. A commission represents a painting that is personal and has significance for the recipient.
The landscape is my preferred subject and I’m gathering a following of fishermen and fishing related paintings. But I am open to considering a variety of subjects. Many people have a photograph of some scene that is special to them. Representing that in a painting is what commissions are all about.
It is preferable to have a good photograph for commissions. An 8×10 is good since it provides greater clarity for details. I have done pieces where the entire composition was composed from my imagination to placing a photographed subject in an imagined composition, to renderings entirely from photographs. Working from a photograph is the best process, as it’s the most direct course for meeting expectations.
It is also important to consider a timeline when dealing with a commission so that we can be realistic in planning. I like to have a window of time that will allow me to offer my best. Often, when I am intimately looking at a piece for days and hours and hours, I begin to …not see it well.
Sometimes putting a painting aside for awhile and coming back to it with renewed freshness is most helpful. This is common with artists. Also, my style involves a time-consuming approach involving the layering of many colors. A comfortable time-line insures me the opportunity to create a quality painting.
If you are interested in considering commissioning me to paint for you, I would be happy to hear from you. Please email (weldonkirk@wispwest.net) or call me (406-333-9553) to discuss your painting. Looking forward to speaking with you.