Commission Work: Balancing Client Expectations and Artistic Integrity

As an artist, creating art is a personal and fulfilling experience. However, when it comes to doing commissions, I often face struggles and fears that make the process more challenging.

One of the biggest struggles I face when doing commissions is meeting the client’s expectations. When I create art for myself, I have complete control over the direction and outcome of the piece. But when doing a commission, I must consider the client’s needs and preferences. This can be difficult, as the client’s vision may not always align with my own artistic style or ideas. It can be challenging to strike a balance between creating a piece that meets the client’s requirements while also maintaining my artistic integrity and style.

Another struggle I often face when doing commissions is the fear of sending the final product to the client. I feel uncertain about whether the client will like the piece or not, even after putting in hours of work and pouring my heart and soul into it. The thought of the client rejecting it can be overwhelming, especially if I struggle with self-doubt and anxiety.

In addition, commission work can be emotionally draining, as I often find myself working on pieces that I am not passionate about or interested in, simply because it is what the client wants. This can take away from the joy and fulfillment I experience when creating art for myself, leaving me feeling drained and unmotivated. The pressure of feeling like I “have to” create something can be overwhelming, making it difficult to maintain my artistic vision and enthusiasm for the project. The challenge is to balance the client’s needs with my own creative expression, while also managing the emotional toll that commission work can take on me.

Despite these struggles, I continue to take on commission work as a way to challenge myself and grow as an artist. It may not always be easy, but the opportunity to showcase my skills and earn some money is worth the effort. Ultimately, I strive to find a balance between meeting the client’s expectations and staying true to my artistic vision, while also managing the personal fears and emotions that come with doing commissions as an artist.