Owning an RJ Blanchette work of art is a pleasurable, enjoyable experience. You may have previously purchased art or have been unsuccessful in finding that right piece. If so, why not commission a work direct from RJ Blanchette.

It is important to RJ that you are completely satisfied.  If for any reason you are not, you may return the work within 30 days for a full refund.

Commissioning RJ Blanchette to produce a work of art can be highly rewarding for both parties. The work is personal and unique, it will be specifically produced for you and your requirements. Each commission will vary slightly in the steps taken from conception through to completion, as each commissioner situation and circumstance is unique.

To assist you through the process we have outlined some basic guidelines to commission an R.J. Blanchette work of art.

Developing your brief

The brief is a document that essentially records all of your thoughts and ideas on paper and is an important part of the commission process as it establishes exactly what is to be achieved. It can also be used as a point of reference when discussing the commission with the artist, for the artist to refer back to, and as a means to set out a contractual agreement. Highlighted below are some key points you should take into account or use as a guideline when writing a brief.

  • Who or what is the work for? Is it for your home? Is it a gift?
  • Are there any constraints or special requirements? Think about dimensions of the work, the space where the work will go, the function of the work, any materials to be used?
  • What are you looking for? What kind of artwork do you like, do you prefer a particular style?
  • What's your budget? Does this include installation and delivery?

The following prices are based on paper size for a typical RJ Blanchette commission. Prices may vary depending on the details of the brief.

Paper size A-Series in mm (Wikipedia Link)

Price in Swiss Francs

A1 594 × 841

5'000.00

A2 420 × 594

2'500.00

A3 297 × 420

1'250.00

A4 210 × 297

625.00

A5 148 × 210

325.00

Making an agreement

 

"Chateau de Chillion"
by RJ Blanchette 2007

Price: 625.00 Sfr.


If you are happy to move forward, you will need to finalize the brief ensuring you agree with the artist, the materials the work is to be constructed from, the timescale and the cost, all of which should be noted. Both commissioner and artist should have a copy of the final brief to refer back to.

Commissioning a project is made easier when the roles and responsibilities of the participants are formalized. For all commissions on a medium to large scale it is recommended a lawyer draw up a legally binding contract. For smaller commissions, correspondence exchanged between both parties can act as a binding contract.

If you are unsure then consult a lawyer specializing in the laws related to the visual arts, and have a legally binding contract drawn up to protect both the commissioner and the artist for larger scale commissions.

Other points to consider

  • Origination - do you want the artist to produce any sketches or models for your consideration before the making of the artwork commences?
  • Fee - you need to agree a payment structure. You may wish to release payments based on the artist achieving certain milestones outlined in your brief. Normal practice is to pay one-third upon agreeing the commission, a second payment mid way through the process and the final payment on completion and delivery of the artwork.
  • Fabrication - ensure the agreement clearly states who will pay for the materials and any other fabrication costs eg if part of the production will be handled by a third party.
  • Delivery - who is responsible for the delivery of the artwork? Are there any special delivery requirements? Who is responsible for insuring the artwork whilst in transit? What are the costs and who pays for delivery?
  • Timescale - agree a timescale for the completion of the commission.
  • Ownership & moral rights - under copyright laws the artist possesses first ownership of a work of art they themselves have created. You need to agree in advance with the artist the ownership and copyright of the artwork.

Reviewing progress

A review is recommended to ensure both yourself and the artist are satisfied with the progress and direction of the commission. The number of meetings required will depend upon the size and scale of the commission.

Completion

Upon installation or receipt of the commission it is important you immediately examine the work carefully, as it may have incurred damage in transit. It can become complicated in proving damage after receipt if left for a period of time.

It is worthwhile meeting or contacting R.J. Blanchette following completion so that you can exchange feedback on the success of the commission. Discussing the commission is of mutual benefit and could aid the progress and ease of future commissions for both yourself and the artist.

Enjoy

What ever your reason for commissioning a piece of art, be sure to show it off to friends and associates. Take pride in your personal and unique artwork.

 


"Willing to Serve"
by RJ Blanchette 2007

Price: 1'250.00 Sfr.