What happens when you commission an abstract painting from a Japanese artist? In my case, from our first conversation to painting, framing, and delivery, it takes about one to two months. I also take commissions from people living outside Japan, by email. Here is what happens along the way, step by step.
1. Listening
Every commission begins with listening. What matters to you, the future you want to live, where the painting will hang, the colors you love. There is also a free consultation online (about 20 minutes).
With clients who live far away, we talk by email. One client who did the whole conversation by email told me he enjoyed the exchange itself very much. I hope the time until your painting is finished is part of the joy, too.
2. Painting: words come, and colors appear
People often ask me, "How do you paint?"
After listening, images come to me, and words begin to surface. I take the words that echo in my head and heart, and check them against the feeling and the sound of the words as I bring them onto the paper.
The colors appear. As I paint, one color after another comes to mind, and I paint them. I don't decide the composition first. I layer color while checking what I have received.
3. Framing and delivery, with a message
The finished original is framed and delivered with a message about what it holds. Prices include tax, framing, and shipping within Japan. Shipping overseas is a flat ¥8,000.
4. Where to hang it: wherever you like
When people ask, "Where should I hang it?" I always say: wherever you like. It truly differs from person to person. The front door, beside the bed, the living room, even the bathroom. Some keep it on their work desk, or as their phone wallpaper.
Here are some words from people who received their paintings:
- "A one-of-a-kind work. Every time I see it, I feel at peace." (Ms. Y, 20s)
- "The painting speaks to me. It's like another version of myself, and it looks different every day." (Ms. H, 30s)
Summary
- A commission begins with listening (free online consultation, about 20 minutes; by email for clients overseas)
- When I paint, words come and colors appear, and I layer them while checking what I have received
- Framed and delivered with a message, usually within one to two months. Overseas shipping is a flat ¥8,000
- Hang it wherever you like
Paintings for yourself or someone dear to you are on the PERSONAL ORDER ART page, and paintings for companies and clinics are on the BUSINESS ART page.
Sources
- Mermaid nao official website (PERSONAL ORDER ART)
- Mermaid nao official website (VOICES)
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