The other day I was talking with the talented Claudine about the business side of being an artist. I enjoy our email converstations, as there is so much more that goes into being an artist than the artwork. I wish I could spend all my time painting, but when you are a one person show you have to do everything yourself.
We were discussing her amazing commission work which starts at only $75. While my work is completely different, the conversation made me think about offering smaller sized commissions. Currently the smallest size I offer is 12" x 12" for $300.
So yesteday I attemped a very small size, an 8" x 8" canvas. At first, I couldn't decide what dog to paint. Then I thought I should attempt to paint Claudine's sweet Pekingese Toby. It was fitting since Claudine was the inspiration behind the new canvas size. Plus Toby is the cutest. The result is the above painting.
To my surprise, I enjoyed painting the small size. It is different than my usual paintings. There isn't a lot of detail nor a lot of background color but still in the spirit of my work.
What do you think? Should I offer the small size canvas commission?
ohh I love it!! Toby looks great!!
I say go for it and offer the small size, maybe do it as a trial run to see if you like it :)
xxxxox
Posted by: claudine hellmuth | February 07, 2007 at 03:21 PM
Hi. Just found your blog in a link from Claudine's. Yes! I love my doggy and would definitely consider commissioning a canvas, but $300 is a bit steep for my budget -- even though I think your work is wonderful. So offering one that's a little less expensive would make it an option for more people.
Posted by: Kerri P | February 08, 2007 at 05:38 AM
Hi. Just found your blog in a link from Claudine's. Yes! I love my doggy and would definitely consider commissioning a canvas, but $300 is a bit steep for my budget -- even though I think your work is wonderful. So offering one that's a little less expensive would make it an option for more people.
Posted by: Kerri P | February 08, 2007 at 05:40 AM
i think so! affordable artwork is something i would look for. especially customized!
Posted by: Jessica Hood | February 08, 2007 at 05:45 AM
Hi Leigh...I say give it a try and see what happens. Toby is adorable!
Posted by: Linda O'Neill | February 08, 2007 at 06:07 AM
I found your link on Claudine's blog, Leigh. I think have smaller sizes of your lovely artwork would be of great interest to many animal lovers. You do wonderful work!
Posted by: Colana | February 08, 2007 at 07:28 AM
I would love a smaller portrait of my Samson
Posted by: miriam Stella | February 08, 2007 at 05:08 PM