With a great spirit of flexibility and adventure I will tell you why I welcome commissioned work into my artistic research, and the practical aspect of its development.
First of all, it is not true that creative freedom is lost. Many famous artists boast of not receiving commissions, claiming that this damages the uniqueness and meaning of their work, that they feel forced to do something uncreative and the work of art takes on a value comparable to that of a simple goods.
I base myself on a simple and effective phrase: “You cannot take a step into the future if you have not taken a step into the past”. If I look back, the famous artists of the Renaissance: everything was commissioned!!! If it were not for the commissions, they had not found the challenges and the creativity and today we did not enjoy the great works of art, the museums were empty and we did not have solid foundations for the rest of the history of art.
So far everything seems easy, but the decision to receive “a trust” can be an opportunity or a nightmare, for the artist and for the commitent.
In conclusion, I summarize and focus on the tangible side and the positive aspects for both parties:
First of all, I establish a more important and professional relationship with the purchaser. On the one hand, I have the opportunity to experiment, invent, create a new project, perhaps an ambitious project; on the other hand, the commitent has the privilege and responsibility of being the spokesperson of his intuition or aesthetic-intellectual talent, actually, he is part of the creation.
Another positive aspect, the commitent has the pleasure of knowing that he is investing well, his point of view is valued and the work is “his” totally and forever. And I follow my own artistic research by sharing specific indications such as dimensions, or colors or particular positioning.
Furthermore, the purchaser can commemorate or celebrate through an exclusive work in line with that spirit. And I am capable of producing ex-nuovo art made on purpose.
Among other things, one of the most important reasons for me is to create art related to the environment or architecture. Contrary to what people think, it gives me a sense of freedom, allows me to do more research, develop all my conceptual and technical skills.
However, if the commission is something special, it must not be a heavy process, but quick and easy for both parties.
I usually start with a first meeting to define the typology or the sculptural subject, to understand the indications or particular requests and other aspects. Sometimes they are physical meetings in my studio and showroom, other times with video calls and with an online visit. Also, if the customer wishes, I know the place where the work will be located. For a second meeting, we define all the details, timing, budget, etc. Then we define and sign a contract. I do not change the creative concept or budget during the work, unless it is something necessary and done in common with the commitent.
After that we enter the realization phase, the control by the customer if he requests it, the finishing touches and the delivery are made. It may be that both parties participate in the installation of the work, it may be that an opening is needed; in short, everything can be done by mutual agreement.
The important thing: Have a spirit of flexibility, enjoy the process and establish well-defined points of reference together.