There is a gift more personal than choosing an original painting, and that is having one made. A commissioned piece can hold a specific place, a shared memory, or a palette that means something only to the person receiving it. It is the closest a gift comes to being written for one individual. We are a Vancouver gallery, and many of our artists take commissions, so this guide covers how to commission a custom art gift, what it costs, and how much time to leave.
A commission is still an original, signed by the artist and one of a kind, only now it is built around your idea rather than chosen from what exists. That is what makes it the most personal gift we offer.
Why a commission is the ultimate gift
A ready-made original is deeply personal already. A commission goes one step further, because the subject itself carries meaning: the coastline where a couple got engaged, the family cabin, a favourite view, or simply the colours of a room the recipient loves. The recipient does not just receive a beautiful painting; they receive a beautiful painting that is about them. Years later it is not only art on the wall, it is a memory made permanent.
How commissioning works
The process is straightforward, and we guide you through it. You bring the idea, we match you to the right artist, and the artist creates the piece for the recipient.
| Step |
What happens |
| 1. Share the idea |
Tell us the subject, the feeling, the wall size, and the budget |
| 2. Match the artist |
We pair you with a Vancouver artist whose style fits your idea |
| 3. Agree the details |
Size, medium, palette, and timeline are confirmed before work begins |
| 4. The artist paints it |
The original is created, usually over about 3 to 6 weeks |
| 5. It ships to the recipient |
Free, fully insured, with a Certificate of Authenticity |
How long to allow, and when to start
A custom painting usually takes about 3 to 6 weeks depending on size and complexity, plus shipping time of about 3 to 7 business days in Canada and 5 to 10 in the US. That makes a commission a gift you plan ahead for, not a last-minute choice. For a dated occasion like a wedding, anniversary, or Christmas, start at least six to eight weeks out to be comfortable. If your occasion is close, a ready-made original is the better route; see last-minute art gifts.
What it costs, and the safety net
Commission pricing depends on size, medium, and the artist, and we agree it with you before any work starts, so there are no surprises. Because a commission is made to your brief, it is treated differently from a stock piece, and we will explain the terms clearly up front. What does not change is our standard: the finished piece is a genuine signed original with a Certificate of Authenticity, shipped free and fully insured. Tell us your idea and budget and we will propose an artist and a plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can I commission a custom painting as a gift?
Yes. Many of our Vancouver artists take commissions, and a custom piece can hold a specific place, memory, or palette that means something to the recipient. You share the idea, we match you to the right artist, and the finished original ships with a Certificate of Authenticity.
How long does a commissioned art gift take?
Usually about 3 to 6 weeks depending on size and complexity, plus shipping of about 3 to 7 business days in Canada and 5 to 10 in the US. For a dated occasion, start six to eight weeks ahead to be comfortable.
How much does a commission cost?
It depends on the size, medium, and artist, and we agree the price with you before any work begins, so there are no surprises. Tell us your idea and budget and we will propose an artist and a plan that fits.
What can the painting be about?
Almost anything meaningful to the recipient: a place they love, a shared memory, a favourite subject, or a palette that suits a particular room. The more specific and personal the idea, the more the finished piece feels made for them.
How do I start a commission?
Share the subject, the feeling you want, the wall size, and your budget. We match you to a Vancouver artist whose style fits, confirm the details and timeline, and the artist begins. We guide you through each step.
Is a commission the right choice if the occasion is soon?
Not usually. Because a commission takes about 3 to 6 weeks, it suits gifts you can plan ahead. If your occasion is close, a ready-made original is the better route, and our last-minute art gifts page lists the fastest options.
Is a commissioned piece a real original?
Yes. It is a genuine, one-of-a-kind original, painted by hand and signed by the artist, and it ships with a Certificate of Authenticity naming the artist, title, medium, and size, just like every piece we sell.
Does the trial apply to a commission?
Because a commission is made to your specific brief, its terms differ from a stock piece, and we will explain them clearly before any work starts. Our aim is that you and the recipient are delighted, and we will make the terms plain up front.
Ready to begin? Tell us your idea, and in the meantime browse our Vancouver artists to see the styles available, or read the related guide on the Canadian art hub, commission a custom painting. See the full art gifts hub for more, and our buy with confidence page for the complete policy.
