Being based in Columbus, Ohio, I’m often asked how to approach commissioning a custom painting. Whether you’re dreaming of a vibrant mural, a statement piece on canvas, or something unique on a wood panel, here’s an insider’s guide to ensuring your project is successful, rewarding, and beautiful from concept to completion.
1. Discover and Connect
Start by finding artists whose style resonates with you. Visit local galleries, art fairs around Columbus, or explore artists online with work in Columbus, Ohio. Reach out via email or social media with a friendly introduction, mention your interest in a custom piece, and ask to discuss your concept.
2. Clarify Your Concept
Bring your vision to life with clear ideas:
- Subject: Are you picturing a city skyline, abstract shapes, or a personal portrait?
- Format: Do you want a mural (large and immersive), a canvas painting (traditional and framed), or something painted on wood panel for a rustic feel?
- Mood & Style: Soft pastels, bold colors, realistic or stylized?
The more you clarify, the better the artist can tailor their style and proposal.
3. Understand Pricing
Painting isn’t just color on a surface—it’s hours of creative work, materials, and professional expertise. Here’s how pricing typically breaks down:
| Component | Consideration |
|---|---|
| Size & Medium | A 48×36″ canvas costs more than a 16×20″, and a mural costs more than a standard canvas piece. |
| Materials | Premium paints, archival surfaces (canvas or wood panel), sealants or varnishes add cost. |
| Complexity | A detailed portrait or intricate mural takes more time than an abstract color study. |
| Location & Installation | For murals, the logistics of travel, scaffolding, or drop cloths in Columbus are factored in. |
Expect a pricing range from a few hundred dollars for a small canvas to several thousand for a large mural or elaborate commission.
4. Request a Quote & Estimate
Once you’ve shared your concept—size, medium, desired installation context—ask the artist for a breakdown:
- Concept development (sketching, mood boards)
- Materials and labor
- Timeline: when the first sketch arrives, when the final painting is expected
- Payment schedule: a deposit (often 50%) sets work in motion, with balance on completion
5. Review the Contract
An agreement might include:
- Final specs: size, medium (canvas, wood panel, or wall space), and style direction
- Payment plan and refund policies
- Revisions: how many sketches, what’s included vs extra
- Timeline milestones
- Ownership & usage: will the artist retain copyright for promotional use? Can you share it in your home or business?
This helps avoid miscommunication—both sides know exactly what to expect.
6. Collaborate Through Creation
Once the contract is signed and the deposit is paid, good artists will:
- Share initial concept sketches
- Invite your feedback: color adjustments? Composition tweaks?
- Provide progress updates—especially critical in mural work, where scale matters
Your input helps refine the piece while respecting the artist’s creative process.
7. Unveiling & Installation
When the painting is finished:
- Canvas or wood panel: you’ll receive the work mounted, sealed, and ready to hang.
- Mural: the artist will install it on-site, incorporate finishing varnish, and clean up after.
- A final walkthrough ensures you’re 100% satisfied.
8. Celebrate & Share
Once your painting is installed in your home, office, or outdoor wall in Columbus, Ohio, invite the artist to your reveal. Celebrate with photos, social shares, or even a small event—word‑of‑mouth about a well‑executed commission is invaluable to any artist.
Final Thoughts
Commissioning a custom painting—whether a dramatic mural, a framed canvas piece, or a beautiful wood panel work—is a shared creative journey. Clear concepts, transparent pricing, thoughtful communication, and trust in the artist’s process make it a rewarding experience. As an artist here in Columbus, Ohio, I love collaborating with clients who bring enthusiasm and curiosity.
If you’re thinking about starting a commission, drop me a message! I’d be happy to talk scope, timeline, and how we can transform your vision into a one‑of‑a‑kind artwork.