One of our favorite things to do is create a piece of art tailored specifically to your space! Whether you’re looking for an artist to create custom artwork in Maryland or you’re located across the United States, Lenehan Studios can create a beautiful, bespoke piece of art for you.

Interested in commissioning a custom piece of art but not sure where to begin? We’ve answered all of your Frequently Asked Questions below!

How Do I order order a custom piece of artwork?

Typically, a client will contact us to request a custom piece of artwork when they a.) can’t find a piece that they like, b.) can’t find a piece in an appropriate size, or c.) have a specific idea in mind. Most of the time, we start with any inspiration images provided by the client, whether they’re abstract, a special location that has meaning to the client, or any other idea, we start with the rough idea and go from there.

Once we decide on a piece and have a deposit, we get to work on the artwork! We send photos to update the client on progress, and if you live nearby in Maryland, we can schedule a studio visit to see the piece in person. Once the artwork is complete, we either ship it or hand-deliver it to you, if you live within a 30-mile radius of our Catonsville, MD studio. We do not offer hanging services, but we are happy to recommend businesses that specialize in hanging artwork.

What sorts of reference materials can I provide for you to work from?

The more reference images you can provide for your custom artwork, the better. Having enough reference materials is absolutely key in order to create a successful piece.

I had a client once who wanted me to create a portrait within a larger mural, but the reference image that was provided was very small and lacked detail. While the portrait that I created looked like the reference image, it did not come out looking like the person the portrait was modeled after due to the fact that all I had to work off of was the small, poor-quality image. The client managed to find another picture, albeit when the girl was older, that was still better than the original image provided which I then used to add further detail to the portrait.

All that to say, clear photographs are the best reference! Sometimes when possible, I do a photo session and a live in-person sketching session to get good references for a portrait commission.

Can I give you an idea without providing reference material?

It is possible to create a piece without any visual references. I’ve worked with clients who were able to convey verbally the sort of idea they wanted and I was able to create sketches and mock-ups to ensure that I was had accurately portrayed their vision.

Will you create a draft or any preliminary images that I will be able to see ahead of time?

Always. However, sometimes the subject does not lend itself easily to a mock-up or preliminary draft, like abstract paintings. The nature of abstract is that it’s created in the moment and sometimes happy accidents happen that you can’t recreate as naturally as when they are spontaneously done “in the moment.”

Other works certainly need to be mocked up so that the client can get an idea of composition and color. We always do mock-ups prior to creating the final piece, but there are always adjustments along the way that are necessary in order to make the piece work.

What types of images do you paint?

Anything! I’ve done everything from Abraham Lincoln with a Boston Red Socks baseball cap to a pair of 7’x9’ abstract paintings for a great room. I also have done landscapes and portraiture, including pets.

What style and medium do you work in?

It all depends on the piece, but most of the time I work with acrylics on canvas. I also do drawings as well as back painted glass (verre eglomise).

What sizes Custom art pieces do you have available? 

Since each piece is custom, any size is available. I have work that I’ve created for other purposes that are available to purchase as well as my own personal paintings.

How is the pricing structured for your custom artwork?

Much like my decorative painting pricing structure, fees are calculated based on size, subject matter, material costs, and timeframe for completion.

How long will my custom artwork take?

Just like pricing, it all depends on the size, level of detail, subject matter, etc. A piece could take anywhere from a few days to a month or more depending on what it is.

Do you offer custom framing and matting options?

Though I do not offer custom framing or matting options, I can work with you to best decide how a piece should be framed. I have worked with a few different framing galleries and can refer clients based on their individual piece.

If I want to order a piece for the holidays, when would you suggest I order by?

If you would like something ready for the holidays I would suggest contacting us as soon as possible, the more time we have to work enables us to make better art. The season is quickly approaching and with the state of affairs shipping, times may vary.

Can you ship the custom artwork?

Absolutely. Special shipping costs may apply due to the fragility of custom works.

How much does it cost to ship my artwork?

It all depends on what it is- size, material, location of delivery.

What is your return policy for custom artwork?

We have never been asked this! I’ve never had a piece returned, in fact, every client who has requested a custom piece has been more than thrilled with it. If for whatever reason you are not satisfied, we would work with you to make sure that you are.

Contact us today to order a custom piece of artwork!

Contact us about commissioning a custom piece of artwork, a custom mural, or any other project you’re dreaming up! We would love to talk about what you have in mind, answer any questions you may have, and if the feeling is right, schedule a consultation.