Commissioning artwork
Commissioning an artwork from me forms a special bond between you, the collector, and me, the artist. Typically, my works appear in public auctions or solo exhibitions. A commission presents a unique opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind rendition of a new or existing work that will forever be distinctly different from my existing portfolio.
Each commission is treated as a unique project, and you, as one party within the group, can choose the level of input you’re interested in giving. We’ll have a conversation that explores my artistic practice, from the origination of the artwork through the use of generative algorithms to its creation with drawing machines. Along each step of the process, you may choose to decide upon certain aspects of the work. These may include: Finding your favorite rendition from a pre-curated selection of algorithmic outputs or picking a specific color theme to be expressed in inks.
While I cannot reproduce existing artworks from series that have sold through auction as editioned pieces (BUSY, ORI, Breakpoint), we may choose to use these algorithms as starter points for new works.
Costs
- Consultation Fee: $100
- Custom Algorithmic Development & Illustration: $125 per hour
Pricing Guidelines 2025 (Paper)
- Artwork Production Cost: $3.75 per square inch
- Artworks above 36” in any dimension (requires specialized hardware): $4.15 per square inch
*All artworks on paper are to be created with archival-quality materials.
Other Media
I am currently interested in working with Clayboard, Portrait Canvas, and other alternatives to paper.
Timeline
Commissions are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. A deposit fee secures your place in line and counts toward the total cost of the commission. Please contact James directly for current availability.
James Merrill
[email protected]