The Pitfalls of Commissioned Art: When Work Does Not Meet Expectations

The Challenges of Commissioned Art
Has anyone ever commissioned a piece of art and the end result was terrible? The answer is a resounding yes, as there have been numerous instances where the final artwork did not meet the client's expectations, leading to negative reactions and sometimes even legal disputes. This article explores some notable examples of how commissioned art can backfire, and the challenges involved in the process of commissioning art.

Notable Examples of Disastrous Commissioned Art

The Infamous "Monkey Image" in Borja, Spain

In 2012, a parishioner in Borja, Spain, commissioned a restoration of a 19th-century fresco of Jesus in the Sanctuary of Mercy Church. The restoration, carried out by a local artist, was widely criticized for its poor execution, resulting in an image that resembled a cartoon monkey. This incident became a viral sensation and sparked discussions about art preservation and the risks of amateur restorations.

Controversial Painting by John McNaughton

In another notable case in 2010, a man commissioned a painting from artist John McNaughton, known for his provocative and politically charged works. The final piece, depicting a politically charged scene, was met with outrage from the client, who felt it did not represent the intended message and was poorly executed. This led to a public debate about the balance between artistic freedom and client expectations.

Celebrity Portraits Gone Wrong

Celebrities have also been victims of poorly executed commissioned portraits. A famous case involved a commissioned portrait of former President George W. Bush, which was criticized for its lack of resemblance and artistic merit. This backlash was met with criticism from both the public and art critics, highlighting the challenges of capturing public figures accurately.

My Personal Experience with a commission Gone Wrong

My own experience with a commissioned piece of art teaches a valuable lesson. The client, who was not particularly art-savvy, began making ridiculous comments on the work during the project. When it became clear that the photo reference provided was of poor quality, I decided to abort the job. I politely stated, "This had not worked out because the photo reference you gave me was cruddy and just a thumbnail. I should have been more insistent on your basic requirements. As a result, I have found the work not savable. I apologize, but I cannot continue on this job. Goodbye."

Lessons Learned in Commissioning Art

These experiences highlight the challenges faced when commissioning art, especially when the artist's vision diverges from the client's expectations. Here are some key takeaways:

Clear Communication: Ensure that the client provides high-quality reference materials and clearly communicates their vision and expectations. Professionalism: The artist must maintain a professional demeanor, even in the face of challenging feedback. Set Boundaries: It's crucial to set boundaries and not compromise on quality. Refusal: In cases where the project is beyond salvaging, it's sometimes necessary to politely refuse to continue.

By understanding and implementing these best practices, both clients and artists can minimize the risks associated with commissioned art projects and ensure a higher chance of success.