COMMISSION

 

Commissioning an original artwork is a personal and meaningful experience, and an opportunity to own a custom, one-of-a-kind piece of art. Darren is pleased to be able to share his passion professionally and accepts public and private commissions worldwide.

​

COMMISSION SUBJECTS

​

Reasons for commissioning an artwork are many and varied. Darren works closely and collaboratively with clients and collectors to bring their vision to life in his unique aesthetic, recognisable style and interpretation. Commissions focussing on any of the subjects and themes reflected in his repertoire are welcome.

​

PET PORTRAITS

​

Pet portraits are a frequently sought commission and beautiful way to celebrate the life of a pet or companion animal. From large canines to small invertebrates, Darren’s exquisite portraits capture the spirit and personality of each animal, resulting in a truly special keepsake. A portion of proceeds from all commissioned pet portraits benefits a no-kill animal shelter.

​

MATERIALS

​

Darren works exclusively with the finest, professional quality artist’s materials. Black and white works are completed with graphite, charcoal and ink. Colour works are completed with graphite, watercolour, coloured pencil and ink. All works are completed on Fabriano Artistico hot-pressed watercolour paper, a 100% cotton, mould-made paper from Italy.

​

SIZE AND PRICE

 

Private commissions are offered at the following standard sizes and base prices⁺. Custom sizes and works to be used for commercial purposes are available and quoted on request. Prices are in Australian dollars. To view the current exchange rate visit xe.com

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

*Please note this is a guide only. It may be the case a minimum size, or particular orientation, may be necessary to fully realise the vision for a particular artwork or to capture the necessary detail and clarity of the subject(s).

 

⁺For multiple subject portraits, please add on 10% of the listed price per additional subject i.e. a double subject head and shoulder A4 portrait would be 520 plus 10%, so 572.

​

COMMISSION PROCESS

​

1. CONSIDERATION OF SUBJECT, SIZE AND SPACE

 

Whether you have a particular idea in mind, are seeking something similar to a past work of Darren’s or would like a recommendation based on the space where the artwork will be displayed, think about how you would like the artwork to look. All ideas and suggestions are welcome.

​

​If the commission is to be created from a reference photograph, such as a portrait, a clear, sharp image is necessary to produce a drawing that captures the likeness, detail and character of the subject. Some helpful tips on capturing a suitable reference photograph can be found here.

​

2. SUBMIT YOUR ENQUIRY

 

When ready, please complete and submit the enquiry form below, describing your ideas for the artwork in as much detail as possible and attaching any images (if appropriate). Once this information is received, Darren will contact you at his earliest convenience to start discussing your commission.

​

3. PAYMENT

​

Following discussion and acceptance of the booking, a deposit of 30% of the commission price is required to start work. This is to secure the time in Darren’s diary and initial outlay of materials and is non-refundable. The balance is due by, or at the time of completion, and paid prior to shipment. 

​

Once the commission order is confirmed, you will receive an email with an invoice for the deposit from which payment can be made directly by either credit/debit card or PayPal. Direct bank transfer/deposit is possible for clients within Australia. Cheques are not accepted.

​

4. PRELIMINARY SKETCH

​

Darren will prepare a rough pencil sketch based on the details discussed and/or chosen reference photograph. This will provide an opportunity to make adjustments, refinements and to confirm composition, pose and placement of all the artwork elements.

​

5. TIMEFRAME

​

​Like everything of quality and value, the creation of original art takes time. Completion times will vary depending on the size, detail and complexity. Please keep this in mind and advise if the commission is for a special occasion or required by specific date when completing the enquiry form. While all reasonable efforts will be made, unfortunately not all timeframes are possible, and this will be advised prior to confirming any booking. You will be kept updated progress photos, at which point adjustments can be made only within the scope of possibility.

​

6. COMPLETION AND DELIVERY

​

The completed artwork will be sent flat, between sheets of acid-free glassine paper and reinforced board, accompanied by a care instruction guide.

Free shipping is offered for orders within Australia. International shipping is calculated by location. All commissions are shipped by courier and fully insured for the total artwork value. A tracking number will be provided once your order has been dispatched. A daytime delivery address is necessary as all items require a signature upon receipt for added protection. Any local customs duties/taxes applied upon arrival in the country of destination for international orders are not covered in the shipping cost.

​

FRAMING

​

Professional framing is an investment in itself to match the quality of the artwork, its presentation and protection. Darren can provide guidance on appropriate framing if desired. The cost of framing and installation are separate from the commission price.

​

REACH OUT TO DISCUSS YOUR COMMISSION

​

Please get in touch using the form below.