Welcome back to our blog series with CEO, Ann Priftis, where we continue exploring the art world through the eyes of collectors, creators, and curators.

Commissioning a work of art is one of the most personal ways to collect. It’s a collaborative process that invites you into the creative journey, allowing you to work closely with an artist to bring a vision to life -one shaped by your space, your story, and your sense of connection. With the guidance of a gallery like Whistler Contemporary Gallery, the commission process becomes both seamless and deeply rewarding.

Below, we walk through what to expect when commissioning artwork and how to approach each step with confidence, clarity, and creativity.

Let’s dive in.

Can I  Commission a Piece of Art?

Yes!  Commissioning a piece of art is a rewarding way to bring a personal vision to life.  While you can commission a work directly from an artist, the process is often easier if you work through a gallery, like Whistler Contemporary Gallery, to lead and help navigate the project.  Here’s a step-by-step guide to understanding the commissions process:

Define your vision: consider the purpose - is this a gift for a loved one, a piece for your home, a public installation, etc.? 

Research artists: search through our gallery sites to identify artists whose style and aesthetic aligns with your vision.  Work with our gallery Art Consultants for suggestions and insight into these artist’s practices.

Talk to your Art Consultant and discuss details: Clearly explain to your Consultant what it is you’re looking for in terms of size, color palette, subject matter.  Work with your Art Consultant to verify timeline and delivery expectations, budget and materials.

Sign a contract: A written agreement for a commission may include a description of the scope of work, payment terms, revision policy, delivery method and timeline.

Stay involved: Most artists provide progress updates and our gallery will facilitate conversations where questions and feedback can be provided by both parties.  It’s exciting to see the real time progress on a work of art being designed especially for you.

Remember to be clear but flexible with your expectations when engaging in a commission - this includes setting a realistic budget and respecting the artist’s core style (an artist who paints only still lives should not be asked to create a series of figurative works, for example). Rely on the established relationship between the gallery and the artist for direct and impactful communication. Above all, commissioning an original piece of art should be a fun and exciting process resulting in a truly unique piece of art you can enjoy for years to come.

Ann Priftis

CEO