Being asked to create a commissioned artwork is always an honour. Truly.

To me, it’s the ultimate compliment, especially because most of my clients already own one or more of my original pieces. Often, by the time they reach out for a commission, it’s their second, third, or even fifth Wendy Buiter. A commissioned work is a natural next step; a way to go deeper, to create something intimately connected to their personal world.

Most commissions I create are portraits -often of the lady of the house- but I’ve also painted families, beloved pets, or a combination of both. Each piece is entirely bespoke, and so, the journey begins with a thoughtful conversation.

Step 1: Understanding the Vision

We start by discussing the format and dimensions of the painting, where it will be placed, and the colour palette. If I’m invited to visit the client’s home, I always bring my laptop and we sit together, reviewing some of my previous works. What do they love? What doesn’t resonate? These insights tell me so much about what draws them to my art — and what emotional nuance the commissioned piece should capture.

Step 2: Exploring Style, Hair, Fashion & Mood

Because my work often celebrates femininity and fashion, we also go through visual elements such as hairstyle, makeup, colors, and accessories. Some clients show me meaningful pieces from their own wardrobe — a favorite outfit, heirloom jewelry, even a pair of earrings they feel strongly connected to. We might include initials in a necklace, a monogram in a bracelet, or a symbolic item in the background. These details are what make the artwork not just a portrait, but a reflection of identity.

Step 3: Setting Boundaries & Preferences

Some clients want no previews at all. They prefer the magic of a full reveal once the painting is complete, and I absolutely respect that. Others enjoy receiving updates along the way: a sketch, a glimpse of the early layers, a progress photo or two. Both are entirely valid, and both are welcome.

We also discuss privacy; some collectors are thrilled to be featured on my social media, others prefer to keep everything private. Again, everything is tailored to the client’s wishes.

Step 4: Timeframe, Framing & Delivery

A bespoke artwork takes time. On average, the creative process spans around three months, depending on complexity and scheduling. Most clients also ask me to take care of the framing, which adds a few weeks after completion. My trusted framer only receives the work when it’s completely finished, and they prepare the frame with care and precision.

Depending on the size and destination, delivery is arranged either flat-packed, rolled in a secure tube, or even shipped in a custom-built container. In some cases, a local framer will stretch and frame the work on location. As always, everything is possible, as long as we discuss it in advance.

A Unique Creation, and a protected One

Each commissioned artwork I create is singular,  made for one person, for one place, and never reproduced. Even though the work will be yours to own and enjoy, it remains an original Wendy Buiter. That means it may not be reproduced, scanned, copied, or adapted in any form. This also applies to commissions created for businesses or corporate offices, commercial use must always be pre-approved, and reproduction is not permitted.

On-Location visits, by invitation

When requested, I travel internationally to visit your home, second residence, or holiday property, whether in Beverly Hills, the South of France, the Hamptons or anywhere else in the world.
This is always arranged on the basis of prepayment. During the visit, I take in the atmosphere, the light, the palette of your interior. I take reference photos, we discuss the brief in detail, and I may begin with initial sketches or visual studies on-site. The actual painting process continues in my studio; in full dialogue with you, or in quiet anticipation of the final reveal.

Every commissioned artwork I create is the result of a private dialogue. It’s not just about visual beauty, it’s about meaning, memory, identity, and elegance.

If you’re considering a bespoke portrait or custom piece, I would be honoured to explore the possibilities with you.

➤ Read more about how bespoke commissions work here: wendybuiter.com/bespoke-art-commissions