Are you looking for a unique piece of art that tells your story? Whether it is a bespoke portrait of your pet or a painting of a place close to your heart, commissioning an original artwork is an intimate and rewarding experience. I am here to translate your memories into fine art using the elegance of watercolour or the intensity of charcoal.
The Custom Art Commission Process Step-by-Step
1. Initial Consultation Every project starts with a conversation. Contact me with your idea. For portraits, I will ask for reference photos. Together, we will choose the best medium (watercolour or charcoal) and the perfect size to suit your home.
2. Quote & Agreement You will receive a clear, professional quote based on the size and complexity of the artwork. To confirm the commission and secure your spot in my studio schedule, a 50% deposit is required.
3. The Artistic Process I believe in building confidence through transparency. I can provide “work in progress” updates, allowing you to witness your painting come to life. My goal is to ensure the final piece resonates deeply with you.
4. Completion & Worldwide Shipping Once the artwork is ready, I will send you a high-resolution photo of the finished piece. After the final balance is settled, I will prepare your order for shipping.
- Packaging: I use professional, reinforced packaging and archival-safe materials.
- Authenticity: Every commission includes a hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity.
- Tracked Delivery: You will receive a tracking number to follow your artwork’s journey to its new home.
How long does a custom commission take?
Turnaround time usually ranges from 2 to 4 weeks, depending on complexity and my current schedule. If you need the artwork for a specific date (like a birthday or anniversary), I recommend reaching out at least a month in advance.
What kind of photos do I need for a pet portrait?
The quality of the reference photo directly impacts the final detail. Ideally, please provide high-resolution photos taken in natural light (near a window or outdoors) at your pet’s eye level. Avoid blurry images or those with heavy camera flash.
Can I request changes once the painting has started?
Watercolour is a “one-shot” medium that doesn’t allow for major corrections once the pigment is applied. To ensure you love the result, we will finalize the composition and color palette during the sketching phase. Once the final painting begins, changes are no longer possible due to the nature of the medium.
Does the artwork come framed?
To ensure the safest shipping possible and to allow you to choose a frame that matches your personal style, artworks are typically shipped unframed. However, they are provided with a high-quality mount (passe-partout), making them ready to fit into a standard-sized frame.
How is the artwork shipped? Is it safe?
Yes, safety is my priority. Works on paper are shipped in professional, reinforced flat-packs using moisture-resistant materials to prevent bending or damage. All shipments are fully tracked, and you will receive a tracking number as soon as the package is dispatched.
Do you only work with watercolours?
While watercolour is my primary medium for its light and transparency, I also specialize in charcoal. I choose charcoal for works that require a higher level of detail, contrast, and realism. It allows me to achieve a photographic depth that is particularly effective for intense portraits and detailed studies where I want to emphasize textures and light.
What payment methods do you accept?
To ensure a secure and smooth transaction, I accept payments via Bank Transfer and PayPal. For custom commissions, the standard process involves a 50% deposit to start the project, with the remaining balance due once you have approved the photo of the finished artwork and before it is shipped.
Are shipping costs included in the price?
Shipping costs are calculated based on the destination, artwork size, and professional packaging requirements. I will always provide a detailed quote including shipping before final confirmation. For artworks valued over 250€, standard shipping within Italy is generally included. For international orders, I offer competitive rates with specialized art couriers.
What if the artwork arrives damaged or doesn’t meet my expectations?
Your satisfaction is paramount. If the artwork is damaged during transit, please take photos of the packaging and the piece and contact me within 24 hours of delivery to arrange for a replacement or refund. For portfolio artworks (non-commissioned), you have a 14-day return window (return shipping costs are covered by the buyer). For custom commissions, returns are not accepted as the work is personalized; however, I involve you in every step of the process to ensure you are thrilled with the final result.
Can I reproduce or print the artwork I purchased?
Purchasing a physical artwork by Ester Liquori grants you ownership of the original piece, but not the copyright or commercial reproduction rights. As the artist, I retain intellectual property rights for every image. If you are interested in using the artwork for commercial purposes (e.g., logos, publications, prints), please contact me to discuss licensing options.