If you haven't found just the piece you want in the gallery, you may want to commission a custom piece. If so, please read the following..
1) What is a custom piece?
A: It is one that is created for you at your request.
2) Why would I want you to make a custom piece for me?
A: You like my work, but you haven't seen "your" piece yet. You would like something that reflects you in subject, color, materials, size and shape.
3) If I'm not artistic, can I still be involved in the design of my piece?
A: Of course! no one knows you better than you. Through the work of many years , I've found that rapport is the key to a successful custom piece.
4) Does it cost more to have a piece custom made than if I choose one that's already made?
A: No. The cost is determined by the time, difficulty and materials required for the piece. I will always offer you choices.
5) How long will it take?
A: At least 2 weeks from a finished design. However, keep in mind that I am a one person studio with a show schedule, materials to locate and obtain and that I always have work in progress. Special dates will need plenty of lead time but will be given special consideration. You will need to be patient. 20 - 25 pieces is the maximum I can produce per year.
6) How can I be sure I'll like the piece you make for me?
A: You will be consulted every step of the way. Work will not go forward until you have given your approval of the final design.
7) What are the actual steps we use?
A: There will be a lot of questions, yours and mine. We'll go through the galleries together until I understand how you respond to various aspects of those pieces: do you like the figural works; the pendants or the collars ?
Do you like the simpler pieces or the more complex?
Do you want something a little wild or quietly serene?
Is there some element you've seen in my work that you especially want (or don't want) in your piece?
Which colors do you love, like and those which you won't wear?
What interests are appealing or significant to you: a particular art form, a culture, a myth, an aspect of nature?
We will find a theme to build a focused image. I will create a piece that call these thoughts or dreams to mind for you in a visual shorthand.
We'll discuss options to determine what size and shape you'll feel great wearing; which stones will be incorporated, which beads, pearls or chain? What length? I am able to scan and send images of the actual materials.
We will develop a budget for your piece in the context of the completed pieces on the website so you will have comparisons. After you have approved a price range I will design your piece within it. You may have an idea for an addition or subtraction (or I may have one) that could affect the cost. If so, the change will be addressed specifically and either agreed to by us both or dismissed. You will not have expenditure surprises at the end.
This is the process of questions, suggestions and choices. I will send a preliminary a sketch for your comments, make any adjustments and follow that with a to-scale color rendering . When you approve the rendering, materials and the estimated cost we are poised to begin the physical creation of your piece.
8) What else should I know?
- You may supply stones, beads or pearls for inclusion in your piece. I will use them, if in the context of good design integrity, I can.
- I cannot re-use metals
- I won't copy the work of another artist or duplicate one of my own. Each of my works is one of-a-kind, though I do at times work in series of related themes.
- I will need a good-faith deposit before I begin drawing. We will define terms for additional payments as materials are purchased and work progresses. You can set delivery for when you anticipate being ready for the last payment.
- Although it is extremely rarely requested, and only if it is necessary a credit-only refund, less the cost of shipping and insurance is possible. I am not obligated to accept return of custom work if I believe it would have limited appeal other than to the person for whom it was designed. If I do agree to accept a piece back, it must be received within two weeks in original condition.
- Please remember that I do all the work myself! If for any reason I feel I cannot fulfill your request, I may not be able to accept your commission. I will do my best!
9) This sounds wonderful! let's get started! What is the first step?
A. Please click here, this will take you to a form where you can enter some information
about what you would like to commission.
