Article

The do's and don'ts of commissioning artists for custom art

February 18, 2022

Are you looking for a new piece of art for your home? Has it been a while since you sat down and taken a family portrait? Portrait commissions present the perfect opportunity for spicing up your home with a gorgeous piece of art. These custom pieces can be done in a number of different styles, from a realistic oil painting to an abstract mixed media piece. Whether you want to spruce up your room with a painting of your faithful dog or some pop art of you and your friends, custom portrait commissions will make the perfect addition to your home or office.  

Pricing Options

Painting commissions will vary in terms of pricing

MadeMay Artist Available for Commissions: Kristin Osterman

When people think of portrait commissions, they typically assume it is too costly for them. However, it is possible to find an affordable artist that fits your budget. You just might have to make some adjustments on the size of your portrait as well as any extra details you originally wanted to include. For example, a large canvas covering a portion of your wall is certainly going to be more expensive than a small portrait that you hang in your office. 

Luckily, there are a number of talented artists out there who can achieve your vision without leaving you broke. Together, you can design a style of art that flows perfectly in whatever room you hang it in. 

Different Types of Artists

Portrait commissions turn out great when you find an artist who can accommodate your vision

MadeMay Artist Available for Commission: Corne Akkers

Speaking of artists, finding a skilled and qualified one has never been easier. Traditionally, people had to Google different artists in their area or search on places like Etsy to find one that worked for them. Hours would typically be spent hunting down an artist, reaching out to them, and starting a contract for a piece. That, of course, would be dependent on whether they have the availability to create your painting. If the original artist you wanted to work with is unable to paint a portrait for you at this time, you would have to repeat the process all over again. 

With online companies like MadeMay, you can save time by filling out a quick form that automatically matches you with compatible artists. All of MadeMay's talented group of artists offer over 20,000 hours of experience creating custom portraits for customers like you. Should you find any that speak out to you, you can immediately message them to get started. It’s that simple. 

Styles of Art

You can select from a variety of different styles and mediums

MadeMay Artist Available for Commission: Callan Veteto

Whether you want a painting of your dog in an astronaut suit or a portrait of you and your children, you can have it commissioned by an expert artist. Whatever you imagine, our artists at MadeMay can bring it to life. They cover all subjects, styles, and mediums including:

  1. Pop art
  2. Oil painting
  3. Abstract
  4. Pets
  5. Landscape
  6. Mixed media
  7. Black and white portraits
  8. Watercolor
  9. Charcoal

Also, you don’t have to have your portrait painted on a canvas. Many customers in the past have commissioned portraits on blankets, paper, mugs, and even rocks. It never hurts to think outside the box when it comes to art. 

Complexity and Detail

Some people desire abstract painting while others are intrigued by portraits in front of detailed landscapes

MadeMay Artist Available for Commission: Alyssa Ball

When you commission a portrait, you have a lot of flexibility when it comes to what style you want to use and what medium you think would work best. Some people prefer colorful abstract portraits that focus on the essence of the person while others want a realistic watercolor of themselves. The amount of detail will impact the final cost of your portrait, so make sure you keep that in mind when describing your vision to the artist. 

Tips for Successfully Commissioning a Gorgeous Piece of Art

Portrait commissions require work from both the client and the artist

MadeMay Artist Available for Commission: Donna Rollins

Commissioning a piece of art for the first time can be both fun and nerve wracking. If you are still new to the process of commissioning a custom portrait, follow these tips below for extra guidance. Many of them are designed to ensure a smooth process from start to finish. 

  • Pick an artist that actually specializes in what you want to do, whether that be mixed media or watercolor
  • Make sure you set clear expectations for what you want in your portrait — your artist can’t read your mind but they want to produce a piece that fits your vision
  • Stay in touch with the artist in terms of revisions

On MadeMay, you are directly connected to the artist after you purchase. Full satisfaction, or your money back!


Portrait commissions come in a wide range of prices and styles. Finding an artist who understands your vision will be essential in building a piece of art that will hang in your home for years to come. Start the request process for a commissioned art piece with MadeMay now!