How to Find an Artist for Custom Artwork
Local & Online Avenues to find an Artist for Custom Artwork
To find a local artist for custom artwork, start by checking out local artist directories. You can also call your local art galleries or see which artists are listed in your area on Google Maps. Meeting local artists at arts and craft fairs is a great way to connect with them in person. For example, Acadiana Culturalyst is a fantastic directory in my home area. You can check my Culturalyst listing here. Once you find an artist, ask yourself, “Is this the right artist for custom artwork that I need?”
If not, narrow your search based on art style, media, or subject matter. You can find an artist that focuses on your specific needs on sites like Instagram, Etsy, or through a direct Google search. Try searching for something like “Expressionist Pet Portraits in Acrylic Paint.”
How to Know if an Artist is a Good Fit
Examining Their Professional Portfolio
First, look at their work to see if their style resonates with you. Also, consider whether they specialize in the subject matter you want. While an artist might create a fantastic piece outside their niche, typically, you wouldn’t ask someone who only displays landscapes in their portfolio to create a portrait of a person.
Considering the Budget
Next, think about the budget. While professional artists rarely have fully developed pricing guidelines for custom work, they often list their starting prices. Established artists, with their higher quotes, have built trust with buyers by showing expert technical skills over their careers. This will be reflected in their portfolios.
On the other hand, supporting an emerging artist might be a good option. If you like an emerging artist’s style and the work they share, you can support their career, often at a lower price than established artists.
The Artist’s Online Presence
Furthermore, consider if you get along with their personality. You will share ideas back and forth with the artist throughout the entire process, so it’s important to get along. Do you want to work with someone professional and concise, flexible and passionate, or technical and detail-oriented?
An artist’s website should contain all the information you need to make that decision. Some artists may choose to share this on their social media. You are more likely to trust them if they include:
- A visual gallery of their work (portfolio)
- Details on why they create their work (about me)
- Information about their artistic process or the services they provide
- Testimonials from past clients
- Contact information
Reaching Out to the Artist for Custom Artwork
Assessing Professionalism & Friendliness
Finally, assess whether the artist is professional and friendly. The artist should be responsive, typically replying within 1-3 business days. They should take time to answer your questions and gather important information about what you want in a custom piece, providing you with a direct quote. The artist should also offer a contract with the following information:
- Total cost of the commission
- Payment terms / Deposit amount
- Detailed information about the final custom piece (size, subject matter, materials, etc.)
Are you currently looking for an artist to create something unique for you?
I hold myself and my professional work to these industry-standard principles. After seven years of creating fine art, I’ve found great love in creating custom work for various clients. I’m not just creating a piece of art; I’m also forming genuine relationships. Have any questions? Email me here. I’d love to chat! Check out my portfolio on Instagram or My Completed Body of Work