A "How To Guide" on Commissioning Artwork with Cheyenne Trunnell and Alicia Summers

Artist Cheyenne Trunnell in her Studio

Over the years we have often fielded questions about commissioning artwork…from friends beginning collections, more seasoned collectors and interior designers. The common theme is that if you haven’t commissioned a work of art before, the process may seem a little unclear and intimidating. We hear you!! Today we’re breaking down the commission questions you may not feel comfortable asking artists with the help of Artist Cheyenne Trunnell and The Well Collected Guide Houston’s Alicia Summers Interiors.

First things first, why would you consider commissioning a work of art rather than purchasing something from the Well + Wonder website?? If you fall in love with an artist’s work and are searching for a piece of a certain size, subject matter, or color palette that cannot be found online, commissioning a work of art is a great option. When you commission a piece, you ask the artist to create a work of art specifically for you with your preferences in mind.

Many of our Well + Wonder Artists offer commissions. They each have unique timelines and price points. If you're interested in a specific artist, reach out HERE and we will happily provide more information and help with introductions! 

Alicia Summers (second from the left) with the Well + Wonder Team at her Home in Houston

Alicia has a keen eye for original art and fell head over heals for Cheyenne’s paintings of the natural world in all of its light filled glory. 

"Cheyenne's work is some of my absolute favorite art to incorporate. The fluid, yet cohesive, use of color and movement in her pieces is so inspiring.  It would be easy to create a beautiful and inviting space with any one of her pieces as the anchor.” - Alicia Summers

Mood Board by Alicia Summers featuring Cheyenne's "Summer's Enlightenment" (Currently Available Online)

Alicia also had these kind words to share on the commission process, revealing that this can be easy and highly rewarding!

"The women who operate Well & Wonder are communicative, knowledgeable, and friendly.  The process of commissioning a piece of Cheyenne Trunnell's art couldn't have been easier - and the result was exactly what my client needed to pull her living room together.”

Room Design by Alicia Summers, Commissioned Artwork by Cheyenne Trunnell

Next up, Cheyenne is sharing honest tips from an artist’s perspective on what to keep in mind when commissioning a work of art to ensure the best outcomes. These are so great, they’ve given us a new perspective on commissions too! 

“Commissions are great in the sense that you have an idea of where to start with a piece (fabrics, colors, etc), but I truly believe, at least for myself, that clients should give the artist only a few parameters to work from and then give them space to work.” - Cheyenne Trunnell 

Cheyenne's How To Guide on Commissioning...

1. Supply Your Parameters: The best process I have found is to receive the color palette (paint/wallpaper/fabric samples) from the collector or designer, in addition to the general direction of the composition (i.e. "trees in water," "forest with a path," "trees and light").  I can produce my best work when following this process and mindset: general guidelines, and then freedom to explore my creativity.
2. Be Patient: Creativity is not always an "on-demand" button that can be pressed. As an artist, it takes time to think through the color palette, composition, line, form, structure of a canvas, etc... Time restraints can stifle my creativity and lessen the quality of the finished product. The medium the artist is working with will greatly determine how quickly he/she can work. Acrylic is a fairly quick process, however, oils can take months to build layers and allow the painting to dry so that it can be signed, varnished, edged, wired, photographed and framed.  
3. Trust: Finally, collectors must remember that they are drawn to an artist's work for a reason; they can trust the artist's creative process. If they don't, it can ruin the piece. The more freedom the collector gives, the better the piece will be!

Work in Progress in Cheyenne Trunnell's Studio

Thank you Cheyenne and Alicia for arming us with the information we need to confidently and joyfully commission a work of art!! As always, reach out HERE with any and all questions. We're here to help!

xx, Emily