Commissioning an artist - what to expect

Last year I took on a few unexpected commissions, which was a nice surprise, and always gets the creative juices flowing! One of those projects was a book cover, for author Craig Weldon. He was looking for a unique book cover, one that looked more contemporary but still related to his Scottish history book. 

Craig relays his experience working with an artist:

“For the cover of my Scottish history book, I wanted something striking, something different to the usual stock images. To get away from licensing issues, it made sense to commission my own picture. I was nervous about committing money to a painting I hadn't even seen yet, but on talking to Ruth Egon it was clear that she wanted to make sure the brief was delivered to my satisfaction. And for an original artwork, the fee was reasonable. I sent her example images, and she mocked up her ideas for me to see. After some discussion back and forward she got to work - she sent me occasional videos of work in progress, and it was really exciting seeing the painting taking shape. 

What came out of the process was different to what I imagined, but no less wonderful - the painting is bold and dynamic, and no other book in my space has a cover like it. As an author, it's a gamble to commission an artist - you still have to pay for the cover layout and editor, and you don't know how much return the book will make. But there's nothing like it to help you stand out from the crowd. And as a physical object the painting doesn't just grace the cover of my first history book, but hangs on my wall!”

Original painting ‘Bruce vs De Bohun’

For me as an artist, it was an interesting project that stretched me beyond my usual bright botanical and semi abstract style. As a painter, it’s a good idea to stretch your comfort zone.

As David Bowie eloquently puts it ‘“If you feel safe in the area you’re working in, you’re not working in the right area. Always go a little further into the water than you feel you’re capable of being in. Go a little bit out of your depth. And when you don’t feel that your feet are quite touching the bottom, you’re just about in the right place to do something exciting.”

I think the key to a successful collaborative creative project is good communication, to ensure you have the vision of the client in mind and set their expectations. I knew Craig would end up with a unique artwork, and he was happy giving me creative licence with the work but he did set some clear guidelines. It had to be historically correct - so I checked in with him about my research around the colours and coat of arms, and I knew he wanted a bold and contemporary style which I knew I could deliver. I’m really pleased Craig ended up with an artwork to enhance his book, and it was an interesting project for me. 

I have one commission space opening up in August, if you'd like to talk to me about commissioning a one off artwork get in touch.

If you would like me involved in your next project get in touch: https://ruthegon.com/pages/contact / ruth.egon.art@gmail.com