Commissions

A commission is the perfect way to combine your wishes with my artistic vision, resulting in a one-of-a-kind design.

There are a number of steps involved in this process: Please choose from the links on the left for guidance and feel free to contact me with any questions.

Guided Commission

A guided commission lets me lead clients through the design process by presenting several sketch options, then revising or redoing these plans until you are satisfied and work begins. The client has an important role in this process, as your ideas and sensibilities are taken into account for the designs. There is a design fee for this process.
The steps outlined below comprise the usual guided commission:

• First, I ask that clients tour my website to get an idea of the types of work I do and don't do.
• Once you initiate contact, we can begin discussing (usually via email) your ideas. If you know that you would like a piece for a specific person or occasion, but aren't sure of the type, please take a look at the commission ideas section on my website. I am also happy to supply recommendations during our initial discussions.
• After initial details are solidified, we will discuss feasibility. Factors that influence whether a piece can be practically made are your budget and timeline, in addition to material choice and complexity.
• The next step involves two to three preliminary sketches based on our conversations, which I will provide to you via email. I encourage feedback during this initial stage to ensure that the concept sketches meet client expectations. I will produce additional sketches and variations as needed.
• If you would like to see a sketch produced three dimensionally, I can do so. 3D maquettes can be made from plasticine, paper or pewter and will accrue additional design fees.
• Once a final design is agreed upon, we will create a detailed agreement of services, fees and timelines, and a deposit of 25-50% of the budget will be collected. I will then order the materials and begin the commission.
• Upon completion of the commission and receipt of payment in full, the piece will be shipped.

Open Commission

An open commission is a less involved process for the client. We discuss your general taste and decide on an object. The resulting piece is more directly my vision, whereas a guided commission is a joint concept

• Look at the pictures on my website to see if you trust my abilities and style.
• After initial contact, I will ask several questions. Would you like an object? A Sculpture? A themed piece? Whatever I am making in my current direction?
• The design choice will be my own, within your stipulations of course. I can email you a general sketch if you request.
• You tell me the maximum budget for you, and the deadline. We agree if this is feasible.
• We make a contract, then I collect a deposit that will cover the materials. Work begins.
• Upon completion of the commission and receipt of payment in full, the piece will be shipped.

Commission Ideas

Clients often know that they would like a piece commissioned for a specific event or person, but are unsure of the exact type. I suggest that my clients browse my portfolio pages to see the types of work I have done in the past. I also discuss ideas with my clients via email or phone. For initial ideas, see the following list:

ONE-OF-A-KIND
Sculptural and/or functional teapots
Vases and bowls
Chalices, goblets
Other vessels or serving utensils
Jewellery, tiaras, wedding bands
Interior sculpture - table top, hanging or wall mounted

MULTIPLE IDENTICAL PIECES (minimum 5)
One original piece with additional items cast
Perfect for necklaces, earrings, lapel pins, etc.
Make wonderful bridal party gifts (see jewellery portfolio)

FAQ

What types of metals do you work with?I commonly work with sterling silver, pewter, copper, small amounts of gold and copper alloys such as brass and bronze.

Do you work with diamonds and other expensive gemstones?No, I prefer to use semi-precious stones or found objects in my work. Your local jeweller has the diamonds niche, whereas I have the creative metals niche.

Who do you work for? While most of my commissions are made for individuals or couples, I am open to producing work for a variety of people, including religious and government organizations and corporations. I can also work in collaboration with other creative professionals such as interior designers, public artists, and so on. Please inquire.

Do you do repair? Not usually. I create my pieces to the best of my ability so that they should withstand normal wear. If you need me to repair a piece I charge an hourly fee. Regarding outside work, I would take a look at pewter vessels or objects that are in need of repair, as I have done some pewter repair work in the past.