How does it work? | Ryuutsu Art

How does commissioning me work?

Please note: This page and provided information applies mainly to private commissions (i.e. for personal use).

For information on artwork for commercial use (book covers, game art, promo illustrations etc.) please contact me directly.

Looking to get a custom artwork but are unsure about how it all works? Or are maybe just looking to get acquainted with my process? Then read right ahead, I hope to provide you with some quick insight that will hopefully make the process more approachable.

If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask!

Looking forward to hearing from you!

1.

To start the commission process, please contact me ryuutsu.art@gmail.com or fill out the Commission Form (recommended for personal use character commissions).

I find it easiest to get us started swiftly when I'm provided with the right information in the form of a character reference document/folder. You can see what kind of information I'm looking for in this template (feel free to use it as base for yours!)

If relevant, please include also:
• Any specific dimensions/resolution that may apply. (particularly if intended for print)
• Any possible deadlines that may apply.

Based on the given information, I will provide a price quote and let you know of my availability. Since I can only work on a few commissions at once, I might ask to place you in queue and reach out again when it's your turn.

Once we are both on the same page regarding all the details and ready to get started, I will ask you to read my Terms of Service, and/or if applicable, provide a contract confirming our agreement.

At this point, I will also ask you for any remaining relevant information I need for invoicing, and invoice you for a 50% deposit to confirm your commission. I do most of my payments through Paypal (unless discussed/requested otherwise). Please do keep in mind that there can be transfer fees and tax fees involved as well - I will inform you of this if applicable.

2.

After I've received the deposit, I will begin working on a sketch based on the information that you've provided. Once I have that ready, I will send it to you for you to comment on.

This is the best time to make changes and revisions (different hairstyle, minor outfit adjustments, changing the character's expression). Once we get into the painting

stage, it becomes harder to change things. Please also keep in mind that unless discussed otherwise, each painting comes with 3 free revisions, after which extra charges occur - so make sure to be as clear as possible in your communication throughout the entire process.

Note: more complex illustrations will likely also get a thumbnail phase before the sketch. This is a pre-sketch that allows us to plan out the composition/lighting/colors. If you have a preference for seeing more WIPs throughout the process, you can also request that in our correspondence.

3.

When you are happy with the sketch, I will start the painting process. Once the painting is done or mostly done, I will send a small preview to you for one final inspection. If the painting is a more complex illustration, I am likely to send you an extra glimpse or two during this process.

4.

Once you are happy with the final product, I will send the final 50% fee invoice your way. When that's paid, I will send you the full resolution of your painting for you to enjoy!

5.

What's the difference between a private and a commercial commission?

Private commissions: These are artworks created for personal use only, and therefore cannot be reproduced and/or distributed for financial gain. (Examples: character commissions, portraits of loved ones, etc.) Commercial commissions: These are artworks intended to be used, reproduced and/or distributed for financial gain, and/or require some form of licensing/copyright transfer. (Art for books, games, promotional material, etc.) These will be charged extra for licensing/copyright transfer depending on the specifics of the project. (Examples: art for books, games, promotional material, merch, artwork for Youtube/Twitch channels, etc.)
What is the best way to contact you for commissions?

When in doubt, e-mail is the best way! You can e-mail me at ryuutsu.art@gmail.com. For private commissions, you can also send a direct inquiry through this form. While I do check them occasionally, DMs and social media are not a reliable way to get in contact with me for business inquiries. I also prefer to not communicate commission details through Discord, as I find it harder to keep information organized.
How quickly can I expect my commission to be finished?

For private/personal use commissions, I aim to deliver the artwork within 1-3 months - so I advise to make your inquiry with that in mind! If you need the artwork by a specific date, provide it when inquiring and I will let you know if we can make it work. Please note: I will always do my best to deliver as quickly as possible, but as I am a one person business, delays are sometimes possible on account of health issues, scheduling overlaps or difficulties, or other unforeseen circumstances. I will do my best to communicate in the event that this is the case. I kindly ask for your patience!
How much do extra complexities cost?

For extra complexities (such as heavy/complex armor, weaponry, complex tattoos, wings, complex fantasy races etc.), you can expect the costs to be in the following range (please note that these are estimations only): Heavy/Complex Armor: +20-30% of the original cost Complex Weapon: +10-20% of the original cost Pets/Companions: +30%(small),+60%(medium),+100%(large) of the original cost Most other complexities: +20-30% of the original cost
Is there a bulk discount for multiple characters?

I unfortunately don't offer any bulk commission discounts at this time, as each character takes me the same amount of time. I kindly ask for your understanding!
Can I post my character commission on social media?

Yes! I'm happy to have you share the artwork as long as you credit me either by tagging me or linking to my website/socials.