How Much Should an Artist Charge for a Commission?

Determining the appropriate price for an art commission can be a complex and nuanced task. Several factors come into play, including the artist's experience, the complexity of the artwork, the medium and materials used, the size of the piece, and market research. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide for artists to determine fair and competitive commission rates.

Key Considerations for Setting Commission Rates

Several key factors should be considered when determining the price for an art commission:

Experience and Skill Level

Artists at different stages of their career may charge different rates. Emerging artists with little to no portfolio may be willing to offer lower prices to build their name and attract more clients. Conversely, established artists with a strong reputation can charge significantly more due to their experience and the demand for their work.

Time and Complexity

The time required to complete the artwork and its complexity play a significant role in determining the rate. More detailed and intricate pieces with extensive backgrounds and multiple subjects are generally more expensive than simpler designs. Artists should carefully consider the time required and equate it to their hourly rate.

Medium and Materials

The medium and materials used in creating the artwork can affect the cost. Traditional mediums such as oil and acrylic paints with canvases may require additional material expenses. Digital art, on the other hand, might involve software costs but often has lower material expenses.

Size of the Artwork

The size of the artwork is a crucial factor. Larger pieces typically require more time, materials, and effort, leading to higher prices. Artists should factor in the increased cost of larger pieces when setting their rates.

Market Research

Reviewing what other artists with similar skills and styles are charging can provide valuable insight. Local art markets and trends can also influence pricing, especially if an artist has a dedicated following.

Client Type

The type of client can affect the pricing. Individuals may have smaller budgets than businesses, which often have larger art budgets. Artists should consider the client’s financial resources and preferences.

Rights and Usage

Clarify the rights and usage of the artwork. Full rights might be more expensive than allowing the artist to retain some rights for reproductions or other uses.

Pricing Models for Arts Commissions

There are various pricing models that artists can choose from to structure their commissions. Here are two popular models:

Hourly Rate

Charge based on the time spent on the commission. Rates can vary from $20 to $150 per hour. This model is simple but may not account for the value of the artwork fully.

Flat Rate

Set a price based on the project scope. For example, $100 for a small piece and $500 for a detailed portrait. This model is more comprehensive and ensures that the value of the artwork is reflected in the price.

Artists might also consider tiered pricing for different types of commissions:

Example Pricing Tiers

- Sketches: $20 - $100

- Small Paintings: $100 - $500

- Medium Paintings: $500 - $1500

- Large or Complex Works: $1500 and up

Ultimately, the price should reflect the artist's value, skills, and the specific details of the commission. Clear communication with clients about what they can expect for the price they pay is crucial.

My Personal Approach to Commission Pricing

I determine the price for an art commission by considering various costs:

Labour: Charged based on an hourly or daily rate. This includes time spent on preparatory work and administering the commission. Materials: Include material costs plus a 20% markup. This covers the expenses related to the art materials. Third-Party Costs: Add a 20% markup to cover expenses such as additional labor, equipment rental, and transportation. Markup: A buffer of around 20% or more depending on the complexity of the project and the uncertainty in time and material estimates.

For large, complex, or highly technical projects like monumental public sculptures, the markup can be up to 50%. This provides a buffer against unexpected costs and a bit of extra margin to make complex and difficult jobs worth doing.

After calculating the total, I ensure that it seems reasonable. If the job seems like it will be a pain, I add a little extra until it looks like it will be worth the effort. If the work is something I'm keen to do because it will help develop my practice, I might offer a slight discount.

Artists should always work out the practical cost of a job before offering discounts, ensuring that they are paid fairly for their work.