How to Commission a Painting

A painting created where the story lives

Wyatt paints exclusively on location. He does not recreate a subject from photographs or assemble a painting later in the studio.

That means every commissioned watercolor begins with Wyatt standing in front of the actual subject—watching the light, considering the surroundings and looking for the view that best captures the character of the place.

Sometimes the most obvious angle makes the strongest painting. Sometimes it does not. Wyatt’s job is to find the composition, light and perspective that allow the subject to tell its story.

Beginning the conversation

All commissions are coordinated through Kristi Waters (kristi@wyattwaters.com).

The process begins with a conversation about:

• The subject or event and its significance
• The preferred painting size
• Timing or important deadlines
• Framing preferences
• Access to the property or location
• Any architectural, personal or historical details Wyatt should understand

This early conversation helps us determine whether the project is a good fit and allows us to anticipate any logistical or scheduling considerations.

Scouting the location

Before painting, Wyatt will visit and scout the location. He will consider the best viewpoint, time of day, season, light and surrounding elements.

In many cases, Wyatt may scout and paint on the same day. For more complex subjects, he may recommend returning under different light or weather conditions.

Once he has identified the approach he believes will create the best painting, we will share his recommendation and receive your approval before he begins.

You are commissioning Wyatt not only to paint the subject, but also to bring his experience and artistic judgment to how it is seen.

Painting on location

Watercolor is immediate and unforgiving, which is one reason Wyatt likes it. It requires him to respond to the place as it is—not as it might behave under ideal circumstances.

Light changes. Cars move. People stop to talk. Dogs become unexpectedly interested in art. All of that becomes part of the experience of making the painting.

Because Wyatt works entirely on location, weather is always a consideration. We are accustomed to working toward important dates, but additional lead time gives us greater flexibility to wait for the right conditions.

Framing and completion

Framing may be discussed at the beginning of the project so the finished presentation complements both the painting and the space where it will live.

Wyatt generally favors clean, understated framing that supports the artwork without competing with it. Kristi can guide you through size, matting, moulding and other presentation decisions as part of the commission process.

Reproduction rights

Wyatt retains all copyrights and reproduction rights to his artwork, including commissioned paintings.

The collector owns the original physical painting, while Wyatt retains the right to reproduce, publish, exhibit and use the image in prints, books, calendars, marketing materials and other formats.

Any special privacy or reproduction considerations should be discussed with Kristi before the commission is accepted.