Custom Commissions


The Process
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1. Chat With Me
Send me your idea on
contact form below
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2. Planning
We discuss the best options for your idea and budget
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3. Payment
Checkout through a custom product page for your piece
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4. Draft
Approval of my sketch/digital mock-up
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5. Painting
Check-ins and touch-ups as needed so you are satisfied
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6. Shipping
Dry, photograph, package, and ship directly to you
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs

How much does it cost?
See the table for estimate of pieces of average complexity. For custom sizes, I will calculate a price based on canvas price, surface area, and complexity.
This table does not include sales tax.
How much for shipping?
Shipping will be calculated through Shopify to take advantage of discounted rates. It will be an additional charge. All custom commissions will be insured and shipped from Chicago, IL.
What if I want multiple subjects in the same painting?
For small portraits of more than one person/animal, there can be an extra fee per additional figure. This will be calculated depending on the portrait complexity and size. You will need a size appropriate for such a painting (no mini sizes)
+30% per pet
+45% per person
For larger portraits it will be case by case basis for added fees for high complexity or high number of subjects.
Can I send additional reference photos?
Yes! Additional reference photos can be sent to alex@artbyalexsmith.com
How long will it take?
Plan for at least a month for the whole process, two months for complex pieces
We can chat, and plan out the exact time frame. I will paint, send pictures, and perform touch ups. I will allow for some time for the picture to dry, take a professional photograph of the finished work, pack and then ship it out. Note shipping times may vary.
This can be flexible. If I have time and you have a deadline, I can finish your commission sooner!
How is payment done?
After a brief conversation and planning phase, I will send you a customized product page to view and check out through Shopify
Can I order a custom size?
Of course! Price will be adjusted by the price of the canvas and surface area of the painting.
All sizes are listed in inches
Can I choose the format/materials?
Depending on the size and specific idea/style, I can use acrylic or oil paints. I can take suggestions for acrylic paintings, however, I have to ensure that this medium is capable of the requested commission. For now, I use cotton canvas with 1.5” inch depth, you can suggest alternatives for me when we discuss the commission.
What can I buy if I do not have the budget for a commissioned painting?
To be flexible on a tight budget, we can adjust the size or materials. Additionally, I have prints available and a gallery of completed work available to purchase. I occasionally take on pastel drawings, which have a lower cost than paintings.
Examples of Commissioned Work
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Engagement
12" x 16" acrylic on canvas, 2024
Wedding Gift
Commissioned Reference Photo
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Rico and Posto
14" x 20" oil on canvas, 2023
Wedding Gift
Commissioned Reference Photo
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Türkiye Sunset
8" x 10" oil on canvas, 2024
Commissioned Reference Photo
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Cape Cod Hydrangeas
36" x 48" Oil on Canvas, 2019
Wedding Gift
Unknown Reference Photo
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Tulips
24" x 48" oil on canvas, 2019
Birthday Gift
Unknown Reference photo
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