How Commissions Work

Your Inspiration

Every commissioned artwork begins with a conversation. Some people come with a clear idea, while others simply know the animal or feeling that you would like the artwork to capture.

Your might like to think about things such as:

• Which animal or species you feel most drawn to

• Whether you imagine a close portrait or a wider scene including the surrounding environment

• The mood or atmosphere you would like the artwork to convey

• A particular landscape or place connected with the animal

• Whether the piece is inspired by a personal encounter, photograph or simply a deep appreciation for the species.

You are welcome to share photographs if you have them, including images of the animal, its environment or the place where the experience happened but they are not essential.

Once we have discussed your ideas, I begin exploring how the artwork might take shape.

This may involve studying reference images, exploring different compositions and considering how the animal’s presence, posture and environment will work together.

When the composition and details are agreed, I confirm the price and estimated timeframe based on the scale, complexity and nature of the artwork.

If the commission is a gift or surprise for someone special, let me know when you enquire and share any important dates so i can ensure that the artwork is ready in time.

You are very welcome to get in touch to explore an idea for a commission and begin the conversation.

If you have photographs related to your idea, I’m happt to look through them with you and advise on which images may best support the artwork.

These photographs are used as visual references for details, expression, light and setting, while the artwork itself is shaped by the overall and feeling you would like the piece to convey.

Photographs are helpful but not essential. If you do not have your own images, the composition can still be developed through our discussions, supported by my own extensive wildlife reference library.

If you’re unsure about particular images, they can be reviewed at the enquiry stage. Any reference photographs must either be owned by you or used with the photographer’s permission.

Commissioned pieces are typically created in soft pastel, charcoal or graphite on professional artist papers. Each artwork is carefully mounted using conservation materials to ensure it is ready for professional framing.

Standard sizes begin from A4 upwards, with 30 × 40cm being a commonly chosen size. Larger pieces may also be discussed depending upon the composition and the level of detail involved.

Framing can also be arranged if required at an additional cost.

Each commissioned artwork is created by hand using professional, archival materials and supplied mounted, carefully packaged and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Price List

Prices vary depending on size, medium and complexity:

Soft Pastel

• 30×40 cm — from £300

• 40×50 cm — from £400

Charcoal / Graphite

• A4 — from £100

• A3 — from £200

Larger pieces and more complex scenes are quoted individually following a review of reference photographs or discussion where an original composition is required.

Due to the time involved in each piece, only a limited number of commissions are undertaken each year.

Deposit

A 50% deposit secures the commission, with the remaining balance payable on completion before delivery.

Once we have agreed on the composition and you have been booked in, the real magic happens.

I begin creating your artwork by hand, carefully building the piece over approximately 6 to 12 weeks, unless otherwise stated in your quotation. Throughout the process I focus on capturing the presence, expression and character of the animal, creating a piece that feels alive and meaningful to you.

During this time I am always happy to keep in touch. Some clients enjoy occasional progress updates as the artwork develops, while others prefer a full surprise reveal.

If the commission is intended as a gift or surprise, just let me know when enquiring. Progress images are shared privately with you only and handled carefully so any surprise is not spoiled. The artwork will also not be shared publicly by me either before or after it has been gifted without your permission.

Once the artwork is complete, i will send you clear scans of the finished piece for review.

One set of small refinements is included at this stage (e.g., softening fur edges, deepening shadows, lifting highlights).

Major changes or redesigns are not included.

When you are happy with the finished piece, the remaining balance is due. Your artwork is then carefully mounted, securely packaged and sent via tracked delivery.

Every commission is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity and a care guide so your artwork can be enjoyed for many years to come.

If you are having your artwork delivered, it will be carefully packaged and sent using a fully tracked and insured courier service for peace of mind.

UK delivery is included with your commission.

International tracked shipping is available and quoted depending on destination. Please note that any customs duties or import taxes are the responsibility of the buyer.

If your artwork is intended as a gift or surprise, I can arrange delivery to an alternative address if needed. I can also send artwork in discreet unbranded packaging.

• Full commission terms are provided at the booking stage.

• A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to secure your commission booking.

• The remaining balance is payable upon completion prior to delivery.

• Commissions typically take 6–12 weeks depending upon complexity.

• Reference photographs must be owned by you or used with permission.

• One set of small refinements is included after review of the finished artwork.

• Commissioned artwork is non-returnable unless damaged in transit.

• Damage must be reported within 48 hours with clear photographs.

• All artwork is sent via tracked delivery, with costs confirmed at the quotation stage.

• All finished artwork and any images created by JH Fine Art Studio remain the copyright of the artist.