I'm interested in the possibility of a commission. Where do we start?
"After contacting me, I will begin by having a short discussion with the interested party to find out if I am a good fit for their project by asking a few short questions; such as, where is the mural planned for and are there any special circumstances? If we determine that I might be the artist for you we will set up a time and location to meet, preferably at the intended mural site to discuss ideas and for me to get a better idea of the project involved. If after this first meeting both parties are still interested in the mural we will both sign a short contract to start the initial steps of creating the design. This simple contract does require a $100 deposit that is nonrefundable but will be deducted from the total cost of the project at billing time."
How much do you charge?
"Prices can range greatly depending on the size, design requirements and site location. However, as a general guideline I use the following formula:
*For murals smaller than 36 square feet I charge by the hour at an hourly rate of $50/hour. I can typically finish a mural of 36 square feet in under 24 hours production time (time actually spent painting). If I go over the 24 hour billing mark I will cap the final costs at $2,500 (unless otherwise specified at the beginning of the project)
* For murals larger than 7'x7' I charge by the square footage at $50 per square foot with NO cap on size.
*Rates may increase due to site conditions such as elevation or surface quality.
*For murals smaller than 36 square feet I charge by the hour at an hourly rate of $50/hour. I can typically finish a mural of 36 square feet in under 24 hours production time (time actually spent painting). If I go over the 24 hour billing mark I will cap the final costs at $2,500 (unless otherwise specified at the beginning of the project)
* For murals larger than 7'x7' I charge by the square footage at $50 per square foot with NO cap on size.
*Rates may increase due to site conditions such as elevation or surface quality.
Will I have to prepare the wall for you?
"In some cases, yes. But most of the time it is minimal such as filling in nail holes or taking down fixtures. I will prime and prepare wall surface."
What else should I know?
"*Any and all commissioned murals, regardless of size or specifications, will require a signed contract. Each contract outlines all of the important information regarding mural repairs, copyright and safety procedures including liability insurance. Contracts will also include total cost, which may not be renegotiated by either party after the contract is signed unless both parties agree to reopening the contract.
*In the case of elevated murals, which require scaffolding, I may need to ask client for assistance in renting or acquiring the necessary equipment if the location is unfamiliar to me."
*In the case of elevated murals, which require scaffolding, I may need to ask client for assistance in renting or acquiring the necessary equipment if the location is unfamiliar to me."
How do you come up with the design?
"During the first few meetings I will work with the client to create a mural design to their liking. Most of my murals revolve around the history of the firehouse and it's men and women and so I spend a lot of time talking with them, photographing them and their equipment, as well as searching through old photos and archives. Before any painting is done I will present the client with a simple line drawing of the design in black and white. If the client is happy with the design I will go ahead with a small scale full-color rendering for proofing. After proofing and approval of this full-color proof no changes can be made to the design without incurring further fees."
What kind of paint do you use?
"I use a light-fast, fade-resistant non-toxic acrylic paint. This paint does not require a sealer, but I can apply a top shine coat if the client request for a small additional fee."
Although this paint will eventually fade overtime (like any paint) it is guaranteed for up to 7 years in "bay areas" and 4 years in outdoor areas which receives direct sunlight. Completely indoor murals are guaranteed for the life of the artist.
Although this paint will eventually fade overtime (like any paint) it is guaranteed for up to 7 years in "bay areas" and 4 years in outdoor areas which receives direct sunlight. Completely indoor murals are guaranteed for the life of the artist.
Do you charge for paint or other supplies?
"Most often, no; unless there is a special requirement or situation. All general supplies are included. However, rental fees for scaffolding may an additional cost."
Do you travel and will that cost me?
"YES and yes, I do travel for commissioned murals. And although I wish I could teleport I must travel most often by car which takes time and because time is money, I do charge for travel at the rate of $0.38 per mile."
How long Does a mural take you?
"It really all depends, but I have to admit that I am pretty fast and my largest mural (which was over 20 feet in length) took me less than one week to complete once the painting began."
Do you ever do other types of murals?
"I have and I will, but I much prefer firehouse murals. I love creating something for such honorable people that I know appreciate it greatly."