Thoughts on the National...

[LEHR]

Originally Posted by billyb

Nate,
Don't miss the next one.

I hadn't logged on for a while so I missed it to. I'd definitely be in for the next one. I've briefly skimmed the raffle threads and had one question: was there a limit on the number of chances you could buy? IMO the raffle is another great way to have a little fun with the hobby.

[billyb]

Paul,
The limit was 5. But after a certain date, the 5 limit would have been waived, but we never reached that date, as they sold out.
There probably will be a little change this time, thinking of max of 2 for first 3 days, then going to the 5 number. giving everyone a chance to get in.
But we are still just beginning of talking about this. It was a lot of fun, and work.

[LEHR]

Sounds good. Thanks for the info Bill.

[GKreindler]

Thanks for more of your thoughts, everyone!

Paul, Dean has always been totally up to accepting payment plans like that since the beginning. When someone commissions something, the normal path is to do the deposits in thirds: the first 1/3 is to really lock your place in the queue so that you're in on that specific price structure and so I can purchase the necessary supplies and secure image rights to get started. The second third is due when I'm halfway into the piece, and the third is due upon completion.

He's always been willing to work with those who requested to pay in more installments, as long as they were serious about it and could commit to it. The most important thing that he always advises is to get that first one to him whether you know what you want or not, as then you get locked into that original rate and have the time to decide. Of course, all considering you know that you actually want to have something painted.

Andrew, thank you for those kind words. I guess the whole pricing issue varies from person to person. They're definitely some who don't really understand why some artwork costs what it costs, but in the end, a lot of those types can be the ones who aren't really interested in it - which is totally fine. But yeah, that side of things really is tough. It took me a long time to be at peace with it, and still, even now it feels a bit weird to talk about. I tell a lot of young artists that it's completely natural to feel awkward about pricing out your work, but also that it's such an important concept to learn about grasping, nonetheless. In order to justify what you ask for monetarily-speaking, the process of artmaking needs to be held in high regard and treated with respect. In other words, an artist's time, level of skill and experience all need to be valued much like anyone else's in any kind of workforce. If a lawyer can justify charging hundreds of dollars per hour because of his/her expertise, abilities, education and history in the field, should an artist should feel any different about his/her trade?

Regarding the raffle stuff, I'm DEFINITELY excited to have another one. I'm just really glad I was finally able to land the image needed for John's painting, so once that one's done (or close to it), we can think about having another one. Hopefully it'll be received just as well!

Graig

[LEHR]

That's cool Graig and good to know. I thought it was always at least 1/3 at a time and whenever you were at a certain stage with the painting the money would need to be paid. Thanks for clearing that up.

[JimH5]

Hi Graig--

I think your work is stunning, and I would be interested in buying or commissioning a piece at some point in the future.

If I were to do so, I would only do it if I could see your work in person first--and I'm much more likely to attend the National than to go to any one specific art gallery. And a little window to my soul and budget--I would probably never spend more than $7500 on any single sports item. That's really my ceiling (now) on fun stuff to put in my house. I'm sure you can create something worth more (and justify the price), but that's too rich for me.

The National has enough high-dollar sports collectors/investors in attendance that I think it would be worthwhile to show your work, understanding that most people didn't go there looking for art. Still, if someone saw something really cool this year, maybe you planted a seed in their head, and that will turn into a sale next year.

Regarding the smaller, less expensive pieces--you're certainly opening yourself up to a much larger group of collectors. I can't think of any reason not to offer them for sale, and $599 seems like a very good price for an original piece of art by someone with your skill.