"The Fine Art of Murals | A Guide to Commissioning Contemporary Murals"
By Jeremy Wells
Chances are that you have noticed the incorporation of murals into the overall design theme of homes is increasing in popularity. From walls to ceilings to niches, more and more homeowners are seeking the escape, serenity, and sense of place that a mural can bring to any home. For the last few decades we have seen a resurgent interest in the private mural, possibly spurred on by the government sponsorship of public murals since the 1930s. The prevalent movement in the style of private murals seems to consist mostly of romanticized landscapes with an emphasis on subtle antiquity. It is not surprising considering our urban surroundings. Whether it is a diversion from the cool and architecturally austere interiors of post-war modernity or the need to escape from our stressful and overscheduled lives, there has been a definite revival of the domestic mural over the last forty years – one that has not been observed since the fourteenth century’s proliferation of great murals. Perhaps you or someone you know is currently considering commissioning a mural but has no idea where to begin. This article should shed some light on this often mysterious process as well as offer some valuable information and guidelines.
Let me preface the following by saying the art of domestic murals is nothing new. Actually, it is quite ancient. Modern painting as we know it was in fact birthed in the form of murals painted with charcoal and natural pigments on cave walls. The Roman author, Pliny the Elder, describing a Trompe L’oeil mural over two thousand years ago in
Athens noted the grapes painted by Zeuxis were so life-like that the birds had actually attempted to eat them. From
the Egyptians and their extremely skillful paintings adorning the pyramids to the remarkable murals of Pompeii to Early Christian catacombs, mural painting preceded and heavily influenced what today we call “high art.”
Perhaps no one culture has contributed more to the advancement of mural painting than the Italians. Examples abound, and volumes have been written on the subject. But for the sake of our dialogue, we can be grateful to the artists Tiepolo, Michelangelo, Giotto, Veronese, and the architect Brunelleschi. The contributions of these artists are
immeasurable and serve to this day as a source of inspiration and awe for professional artists. The above named artists are widely known for their murals, but it is interesting to note that many other artists known more for their canvas work, such as Titian, Picasso, Matisse, Monet, Chagall, and Sargent have painted murals as well. The point of all this history is to help you understand that when you decide to commission a mural for your home, you are not simply participating in a new trend or fad that will pass. You are, in fact, becoming a participant in a rich history of an ancient art form.
When embarking on commissioning a mural, I would suggest you begin with determining a location that is fitting. Possible locations include, but should not be limited to, walls, ceilings, niches, barrel vaults, domes, and furniture. Ideally, a mural should be in a visible location that can be viewed from a distance simply to maximize its audience and viewing perspective. When considering themes, keep in mind that a mural should be an enhancement to and in
harmony with the existing architecture and design, not a distraction. Perhaps most importantly, it should have personal significance and value to you. “A mural should have intrinsic as well as decorative merit...” says Caroline Cass in Grand Illusions, a fascinating book about contemporary interior murals. When our firm is commissioned to paint a landscape mural, we advise our patrons to consider a subject location that has direct sentimental value. These murals seem to be most enjoyed over time, as nothing quite captures the essence of a moment or memory like paint.
After you have determined the location of your mural, it is time to find the right artist for the job. First contacting
your interior designer is recommended. Chances are they already have a working relationship with a muralist whom you could interview. The most important aspect, as with any art, is for you to be inspired by the muralist’s previous work. No two murals are alike, and no two muralist’s styles are alike, which is why this should be your first consideration. Fortunately, living in Houston you have more than a few sources available when searching for a style with which you can connect.
Once you have found several artists and have investigated their websites to learn more about them, you (or your designer) should schedule an initial consultation. If they have a studio you can visit, it may prove very helpful for you to see other works first hand to get an even better feel for their style and skill. Here at Imago Dei, we have a showroom and gallery where initial consultations are usually conducted. This gives you the opportunity to tour the studio, see works in progress, and personally meet with our artists. We try to demystify the process by involving you in every step of your mural.
After visiting the artist’s studio, the next step is usually an onsite visit to your home. It is extremely valuable for your artist to observe the architectural space and examine the light and colors that will ultimately have a major affect on the mural (whether it is painted on site or on canvas in the studio.)
The current preferred method of creating murals is to paint them on canvas in the artist’s studio and then install them on site. This is the process we practice, as it has many benefits such as the following: a finer quality of artwork, archival artwork that can appreciate in value, the canvas may be safely and easily removed and transported for reinstallation, and it is conveniently non-disruptive to your home environment.
There are, of course, many more things to consider, and surely your designer will have advice for you. As with any major investment, do your homework before proceeding with commissioning a mural. The blog section of
our website (www.ImagoDeiGallery.com) contains many useful tips and resources on this subject as well as other Art and Design topics.
Above all, I hope you enjoy the process. Savor the smell of the artist’s fresh paints in the studio, engage in the
creative brainstorming of initial designs, contribute your thoughts and concerns, and be a player on your artistic team. Be soothed and consoled after a stressful day by the power of well executed artwork. Take the time to enjoy your mural as a part of your everyday life.
I leave you with a quote from Henri Matisse that is perhaps more relevant in our day than ever when regarding
private murals: “What I dream of is an art of balance, of purity and serenity devoid of troubling or depressing subject matter - a soothing, calming influence on the mind, rather like a good armchair which provides relaxation from physical fatigue.”
Imperative guidelines to a
successful mural commission:
• Make sure you have seen (and enjoyed) the artist’s previous work. This will most likely be seen in a professional portfolio. If there is no portfolio, this should serve as a red flag.
• When meeting with your artist, there should be a connection and trust. A mural will be a very intimate part of your home. You want to be reminded of a positive commissioning experience, not a stressful one.
• Your concerns and opinions matter. You don’t have to have a formal art degree to share your concerns with an artist. You should feel that your input is considered.
• Pay attention to the details. How do the artists present themselves, their work, and any business materials? These are key indications of their level of professionalism and the service you will experience.
• Expect a formal written proposal and understand the total price and terms of the project. A mural can be a considerable investment, averaging between $10-20,000 for a high quality
mural.
• References should be available if requested. Don’t hesitate asking – a successful artist will be ready and proud to present you with a list of references.
successful mural commission:
• Make sure you have seen (and enjoyed) the artist’s previous work. This will most likely be seen in a professional portfolio. If there is no portfolio, this should serve as a red flag.
• When meeting with your artist, there should be a connection and trust. A mural will be a very intimate part of your home. You want to be reminded of a positive commissioning experience, not a stressful one.
• Your concerns and opinions matter. You don’t have to have a formal art degree to share your concerns with an artist. You should feel that your input is considered.
• Pay attention to the details. How do the artists present themselves, their work, and any business materials? These are key indications of their level of professionalism and the service you will experience.
• Expect a formal written proposal and understand the total price and terms of the project. A mural can be a considerable investment, averaging between $10-20,000 for a high quality
mural.
• References should be available if requested. Don’t hesitate asking – a successful artist will be ready and proud to present you with a list of references.
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