Commissioning a Painting: A Celebration of Life in Perth
Why Commission a Work?
Often, people approach me for a commission as a form of celebration. It might be a gift for a loved one, something to grace the walls of a new or cherished home, or an expression of gratitude for the positivity of things turning out well. Many share that feeling of thanksgiving, reflecting on times when the future seemed daunting. These paintings become a celebration of their lives, the places they’ve raised their families, and the peace they’ve found here.
These works explore the Perth landscape, the river, the bay, that sense of calm when looking out, or the rhythm of commuting to holiday destinations down south. Sometimes they contain motifs that express special places in the family history, such as childhood playgrounds, such as the Pioneer Woman’s Memorial in Kings Park.
Drawing Inspiration from Existing Paintings
The best starting point is often a piece you’ve already fallen in love with. Clients frequently tell me, “We saw this specific work, and we love it. We’d like it to be even more about our lives here.” This sums it up perfectly—it’s about personalising something that already resonates.
For example, one gentleman wanted the Canning Delta included, which I’d never painted before. Others requested Optus Stadium or the Fremantle harbour cranes, elements I see daily but hadn’t emphasised until they suggested them. These additions not only make the painting yours but also deepen my own appreciation, refreshing my view of a familiar landscape from a point of deep affection.
The Personalisation Process
Once inspired, the process is collaborative and enriching. We start with a conversation, either in person at the studio or over the phone, where you share what’s important. I ask clients to send a list of places or elements that hold meaning. Sometimes photos come along, like shots of a beach house at Toby’s Inlet, helping me capture a special place.
I don’t charge extra for commissioned work because it’s an opportunity for me to grow as an artist. I’ve discovered significant parts of the landscape through these briefs. The result? A painting that might include where the kids went to school, weekend prawning spots in the river, or even a channel swim. There is an intergenerational aspect to this, as the painting is a way of remembering this is where we did these things. The painting becomes a way of passing on family stories.
Choosing the Right Size and Fit
Size is often dictated by your space. Clients usually come with a size in mind because the house suggests it. In terms of personalising a painting, bigger is better. Smaller works can be trickier to compress, while larger ones offer more room to add motifs while still maintaining the natural flow of the work.
Pricing
Commissions are priced consistently with my other works, based on size. As I mentioned before, there is no increase for personalisation. I benefit from the process, as it leads me to better paintings and new ideas.
The Delivery: A Moment of Humble Success
Delivering a commissioned work is one of the most wonderful parts of my work. There’s a humble feeling completing the project and seeing how much people feel about their commission. It’s a thrill for me to think these paintings will endure for generations and have special meaning for the family.
On a personal note, I never imagined my life would turn out like this. To be able to create meaningful art and to spend my days celebrating a landscape I love dearly.
If you enjoy my art and the idea of commissioning a personal work resonates with you, I’d love to hear from you. Reach out via the contact page to start a conversation about commissioning your own celebration of life in Perth. Let’s create something that inspires gratitude and joy for years to come.