Commissions & Custom Orders

A commissioned work is among the most rewarding acquisitions a collector can make, a piece created expressly for you, shaped by your vision and the artist's distinctive hand. This page explains how commissions work on ArtRewards, from your first request through to the moment your finished artwork arrives. Whether you are seeking a portrait, a sculpture, or an original composition tailored to a particular space, our aim is to make the journey transparent, secure, and genuinely inspiring.

How Commissions Work

A commission is a bespoke artwork created by an artist at your request, rather than a piece already listed for sale. It is a collaborative process, one that allows you to participate in the creation of something singular and lasting.

In broad terms, a commission unfolds in the following way:

1. You share your vision with an artist, including subject, style, size, and medium
2. The artist confirms whether the project suits their practice and proposes terms
3. You agree on price, timeline, and key milestones in writing
4. The artist begins work, sharing progress at agreed stages
5. You review the work, request any agreed-upon revisions, and approve the final piece
6. The completed artwork is prepared, insured, and shipped to you

Because each commission is unique, the specific terms, timelines, and number of revisions are confirmed in writing before any work begins. This written agreement protects both you and the artist, ensuring expectations are shared and clear from the outset.

Requesting a Commission

Beginning a commission is straightforward, and our team is glad to guide you at every stage.

To request a commission:

• Identify an artist whose style resonates with your vision, whether through their existing works or our curatorial recommendations
• Reach out through the artist's profile or contact our team at info@artrewards.net
• Share the essential details of your request, including:

1. The subject or concept you have in mind
2. Your preferred medium, such as oil, acrylic, sculpture, or mixed media
3. Desired dimensions and orientation
4. Any color palette, mood, or reference images that inspire you
5. The space the work is intended for, if relevant
6. Your budget range and ideal completion date

• Await the artist's response, in which they will confirm feasibility and propose terms

You need not have every detail resolved before reaching out. Even a brief description of what you envision is an excellent starting point, and our curators can help refine your brief and match you with an artist whose practice suits your ambitions.

Payment Terms for Commissions

Commissioned works follow payment terms distinct from standard purchases, reflecting the time, materials, and dedication a bespoke piece requires.

The following principles generally apply:

1. A deposit is typically required before work begins, securing the artist's time and covering initial materials
2. The remaining balance is due upon completion and your approval of the finished work, prior to shipment
3. Some larger projects may be structured around staged payments tied to agreed milestones
4. All payments are processed through ArtRewards' secure, encrypted checkout for your protection

The exact deposit amount, payment schedule, and total price are agreed in writing before the commission commences. This transparency ensures you can proceed with complete confidence, knowing precisely what is expected at each stage.

Revisions and the Approval Process

A commission is a dialogue, and thoughtful revision is a natural part of creating a work that truly satisfies. To keep the process smooth and rewarding for both parties, revisions follow an agreed structure.

The approval process generally works as follows:

1. The artist shares progress at agreed milestones, such as an initial sketch or composition study
2. You review each stage and provide clear, constructive feedback within a reasonable window
3. The artist incorporates any revisions covered by your written agreement
4. Once the work meets the agreed-upon brief, you grant final approval
5. The artwork is then prepared for delivery

Most agreements specify a set number of revisions, ensuring the artist can refine the piece while respecting the integrity of their creative practice. Revisions that fall outside the original brief, such as a significant change in subject or composition, may be subject to additional terms agreed in advance. We encourage you to share your feedback openly and promptly, as timely communication keeps your commission progressing beautifully.

Timelines for Custom Works

Creating an original work takes time, and the finest commissions are rarely rushed. Timelines vary considerably according to the medium, scale, and complexity of the piece, as well as the artist's existing schedule.

Several factors influence how long a commission takes:

1. The medium and technique, such as a large oil painting or a cast sculpture, require more time than a work on paper
2. The size and intricacy of the composition
3. The number of revision stages agreed
4. Drying, curing, or finishing periods inherent to certain materials
5. The artist's current commitments and availability

Your artist will provide an estimated completion date as part of your written agreement, along with the key milestones along the way. Should any unforeseen circumstances affect the timeline, the artist will communicate with you promptly to ensure expectations remain aligned throughout.

Cancellations for Custom Orders

Because commissioned works are created uniquely for you, they are handled differently from ready-made purchases. We ask all collectors to consider a commission carefully before committing, as the artist dedicates time and resources from the moment work begins.

The following cancellation terms generally apply:

1. You may cancel before work has begun for a full refund of any deposit, unless otherwise agreed
2. Once production is underway, the deposit may be non-refundable, as it compensates the artist for time and materials already committed
3. Cancellations after substantial progress may be subject to a charge reflecting the work completed
4. Returns based on personal preference or a change of mind are not accepted for custom works, given their bespoke nature

The precise cancellation terms for your commission will be confirmed in writing before work begins. While preference-based returns do not apply, please be assured that your statutory rights remain fully protected, and qualifying issues are always covered, as outlined below.

Delivery and Damage for Commissioned Works

Once your commission is complete and approved, it is prepared for delivery with the same exacting care that defined its creation.

Delivery of a commissioned work involves:

1. Professional packaging suited to the medium, scale, and fragility of the piece
2. Insured transit to safeguard your acquisition on its journey to you
3. Tracking details, where available, so you can follow its progress
4. Specialist or white-glove handling for larger or more delicate works, where required

While preference-based returns do not apply to commissions, qualifying issues remain fully covered. You are eligible for a resolution if:

1. The work arrives damaged during transit
2. The work does not arrive within the expected delivery window
3. The work fails to meet the agreed specification set out in your written commission agreement

If any of these apply, please contact us promptly at info@artrewards.net. Retain all packaging, photograph the work and its packaging clearly, and include your order number along with a description of the issue. Our team will review your report and guide you through the next steps with care.

Need More Help?

If you have any questions about commissioning a work, your payment schedule, or the progress of a custom order, our team is here to assist.

• Email: info@artrewards.net
• Response time: We aim to respond within 2 business days

Please include a clear description of your enquiry, along with your order number where applicable, so we can help you as swiftly and thoroughly as possible. A commission is a collaboration between you, the artist, and our team, and we are committed to making every step considered, secure, and genuinely memorable.