10 Canvas Painting Ideas to Commission from Local Artists!

What does it mean to commission a painting?

Before we jump into canvas painting ideas, lets cover what it exactly means to commission art. Commissioning artwork is a very exciting process that is a completely different experience to buying pre-made artwork or prints. Artists usually have a collection of work, in their style, available for purchase for a set price that they created from their own design. These artworks can sometimes be bought in print version which is a high quality copy of the original artwork. If the artwork is classified as an “original” piece usually it will not be made into prints and the buyer will purchase the one and only original artwork.

Custom commissions are at the request of the buyer and often incorporate elements unique or special to the customer. Artists with a specific style might prefer to incorporate more of their own canvas painting ideas whilst others may be open to creating an artwork exactly as requested. Unlike a pre-made painting, custom art is made from scratch and designed specifically for you! Plenty of thought, care and work is put into a custom painting as the artist usually has less free-reign and is expected to fulfil a brief accurately.

How do you turn your canvas painting ideas into a brief?

A project brief is a crucial part of commissioning an artist to create paintings on canvas. Providing as much guidance as you can makes it easier for the artist to quote and design. How large does this painting need to be? Do you have reference images? What colours do you like and dislike? What style are you after? If you’re unsure, the best way to successfully get the ball rolling is to reference elements of the artist’s current body of work that you enjoy. Artists enjoy painting on canvas in styles they specialise in so allowing them to take the reins is perfectly acceptable – although, a detailed brief is still required.

The brilliance of a blank canvas commission is that it can be shipped internationally. Large canvases can be rolled up and smaller canvases can be packaged delicately. Once received your local framer will be able to custom make a frame that fits your canvas perfectly! Custom artwork is one-of-a-kind, meaning there is no one else who has an artwork like it!

Why commission custom artwork?

1. Commission art as a gift

Commissioning a custom artwork is the perfect gift idea! There is something so incredibly personal about a gift that represents someone you care for so deeply. Commission an artist to paint a canvas painting for your friends birthdays (get your friends or family to put a little bit of money towards the final piece), anniversaries, holidays or celebrations. But, remember – give your artist enough time!

2. Commission art for your home, office or business

Artwork doesn’t have to be for someone else – it can be for you! Get canvas painting ideas that compliment the decor of your home or office beautifully. A work of art for your entryway or above your bed can truly transform a bland room. Childrens bedrooms or playrooms are also a great place for custom canvas paintings of their favourite characters or things.

3. Commission art to support local artists and build your collection

Using a platform like Book An Artist puts you directly in touch with local artists. Supporting your local art scene puts money in the pocket of your community. Plus, you never know who could be the next Picasso – commission art now and own a one-of-a-kind piece from the next big thing!

10 Canvas Painting Ideas to Commission from Local Artists!

1. Commission a painting from a photo:

A memory just looks better when its been hand painted! Commission a family painting, an old photo of your great grandparents wedding or that incredible waterfall from your last holiday. Depending on the artist you ask, photos can be either replicated identically or jazzed up in the artists unique style.

2. Commission an artwork of a fictional character or celebrity:

Musicians, movie characters, sporting super stars, cartoons, television personalities – the list is endless! Bars, pubs and restaurants often hang portraits of famous singers and rappers, turn your home into the coolest chill out spot and commission art of some of your favourite famous faces.

3. Commission a canvas painting of a location:

There are plenty of places that could be important to you. Proposal locations, wedding venues, tropical getaways, the country you grew up in or the new city you call home. Whether the location has a deeper meaning or the sights are simply beautiful, relax in front of your new view.

4. Commission art of favourite things, personal items or memories:

Childhood toys, or a lost necklace never found. Art has a way of immortalising important memories or items with meaning.

5. Commission custom art of animals:

Let your pet know you love them by commissioning a custom pet portrait! Pet portraits are a great way to show your furry friend how important they are. Got a favourite animal? Lions, tigers and bears – oh my! Any critter from the animal kingdom can make a fantastic feature piece.

6. Commission a portrait:

Get a gorgeous painting of your mum, your dad, your favourite teacher or your Nan painted – or even a canvas painting of yourself! There are no rules to art. 

7. Commission a painting in the artist’s style:

Relinquish creative control and let the artist of your choice paint the picture. They’re the professional for a reason! If you like your artist’s work, let them steer the ship and create you a custom piece in their style.

8. Commission a replica of your favourite artwork:

Some artists are more than happy to take a whack at replicating a style or famous painting. If you’re a big fan of the Mona Lisa or Van Gogh’s Starry Night and want something similar, an artist may be able to help you.

9. Commission an abstract canvas painting to compliment your walls:

Not all canvas painting ideas have to have understandable imagery, many interior designers are after an artwork that compliments a room without distracting from the furniture. Whether its lines, colours or textures there are plenty of options for the abstract art lovers.

10. Commission graffiti art or street art on a canvas:

Street or graffiti art isn’t just for alleyway walls, commission a graffiti artist to paint on canvas! Bring a touch of your local street art scene to your home, office or business.