Approach

How do you typically work with a client who wants to commission a piece?

Phone conversations and meetings are used to determine a client’s needs. This includes a discussion of the best technique to tell the client’s story along with size, price and schedule. After a scope of work is conceptualized using materials supplied by the client, a site visit is arranged.

If such a visit is not practical due to time, distance or weather factors, the client will be asked to supply photos, technical drawings or other site-specific materials. After the full scope of a project is delineated a contract will be drawn up and signed by all parties. JCT will then work with any on-site sketches, photos and other research materials to produce a “first look” pencil drawing to be FAXed or scanned and sent via e-mail to the client for discussion and approval. With any changes or modifications accomplished, the sketch is transferred to canvas, drawing paper or drafting film. As the work progresses, clients are invited to the studio, or in lieu of a visit, periodic jpg images of the piece are sent via e-mail as needed.

How do you determine price?

Technique, size, complexity, and due dates are all factored into pricing. Typically, most of the conceptual renderings are done in pencil or ink with watercolor wash. The bulk of the corporate art and private commissions are done in oil-on-canvas. Generally the oil paintings and renderings shown here range from 11”x14″ up to 24″x36.” Typically, a 24”x36” oil starts at $7,000 and a similar sized ink and watercolor rendering would start at $5,000. However, aerial views are more expensive than ground level works. Many times smaller and simpler images will meet a clients needs and a commensurate fee is arranged. A typical contract will include time and expenses for site visits and research as well as a down payment with balance due upon delivery of the completed work(s).

How long does it take to produce a painting or rendering?

Again, size and complexity are the determining factors. Generally speaking, pencil or ink drawings take a couple of days, while larger ink and watercolor renderings or oil paintings may involve several weeks for production, not including any on-site research.

Who owns the original paintings?

When a piece is commissioned it is owned by the client. JCT retains the copyright, but will work with a client to license use of the art as appropriate for a given job(s). The contract stipulates that when a piece is reproduced it shall carry the Artist’s copyright. No digital or photographic manipulation of an original image is permissible without the written permission of the artist.