Thank you for your report!
We have received your report and it is currently under investigation by a forum moderator.
A mistake we all make!
Welcome to the forum.
Here you can discuss all things art with like-minded artists, join regular painting challenges, ask questions, buy and sell art materials and much more.
Make sure you sign in or register to join the discussions.
Hang on Studio Wall
This is a Studio member-only feature!
Join our Studio membership and save your favourite Painters Online content, from gallery artwork to step-by-step guides, to your own online mood boards. Create your go-to place for inspiration and learning. Plus, members can also enjoy a range of exciting features including monthly art videos and a digital magazine library.
If you are already a Studio member, simply login to your account.
Not a Studio member? Why not try our free 30-day trial - no commitment, no credit card required
Message
Posted
For what it's worth, I will give you my own expierience when it comes to this problem!
To be commissioned in itself is a wonderful thing! To think that someone thinks enough of your ability to request a piece of art is a great pat on the back in the first place! Now, one of the biggest problems most of us face when ask to complete a commissioned piece is that we want to replicate the subject as it is presented ( if for instance, it is something that the client wants you to paint),
Remember, you are the artist, and probably the client has come to you because they like the way you interpret! So, you must paint the subject as YOU interpret it!
What I do is, I spend a little time discussing the proposed work with the client, and explain to them that although you will attempt to produce the work as close as you can to what the client wants, ther finished painting will be a representation of the subject, but painted as I see it. In other words, a true representation of my style and flair.
Now, if the client really likes your previous works, they will accept this (hopefully!) and will understand that they are buying not only a representation of what it was they wanted, but a painting that has been created by you, a true original piece that hopefully they will be proud to hang on thier wall!
Now, my other advice is...when working on a painting that just doesn't seem to be working, there are a number of solutions you may consider:
(1) Try and analyse what seems to be the initial problem. Is it you? Are you not applying yourself to the work as you should? Lost the inspiration to achieve? Is it really what you want to paint?
Is the subject you are trying to replicate producing it's own problems? etc.
(2) Put it aside, out of sight, and come back to it later with fresh eyes.
(3) Seek the advice of a fellow artist who paints much the style as you do.
(4) Start again!
We all suffer this problem, and sometimes, when it's not working, perhaps you have to accept the fact that it will never work! Accept it, and move on!