In a time where the individual can feel more and more like a number, I like to go towards others and meet them in their individuality. So I wish to visit and meet the commissioner, to understand him/her better and create the artwork that will respond to his/her needs. The original art idea will take birth in this encounter. It is then the creation process that will allow the idea to blossom to its fullest potential.

For me there is undoubtedly a subtle psychological component at play in the case of commissions. The art work is meant not only to please the eye and the heart of the commissioner, but somehow to respond at a deeper level to an identity need which cannot be expressed through rationality alone, but definitely through art.

In the case of a corporation, art can enhance the corporate identity, which is somehow even more elusive than for a physical person. Not only does it energize the work environment, it helps shape the vision of the corporation, both internally and to the outside world. Having myself been in the corporate world for 14 years, I know how to translate artistically a corporate identity: not only what it is today but what it aspires to be.
Joëlle Deroy, Summer 2008

HOW TO COMMISSION AN ARTWORK?

1. ONE-ON-CONTACT: preliminary introduction to my work is made via Internet and then a studio visit.

2. ON PREMISE VISIT: whenever feasible, I visit the environment where the artwork is meant to be displayed. It allows me to learn more about the lifestyle and personality of the commissioner, in addition to practical issues (such as space).

3. COLLABORATIVE PROCESS WITH THE COMMISSIONER: we discuss needs and ideas, what the commissioner is attracted to both visually and conceptually.

4. TAILORED-MADE PROPOSAL: The personality of the commissioner and his environment inspire me an artwork in response to the needs I feel, whether they are clearly articulated or not.
I submit a proposal including: concept, size, shapes, color theme, technique, price and time frame.

5. FULL PAYMENT at DELIVERY/ INSTALLATION ONLY: I ask for a 20% deposit when the making of the artwork is launched.

6. COMMISSIONER in the LOOP of the CREATIVE PROCESS: I keep the commissioner informed as the artwork progresses. I will also document the steps of the artwork through pictures, to be given at the end to the commissioner.

7. A NOURISHING EXPERIENCE: I enjoy working each time on a different project and I believe the experience is fulfilling both from the artist perspective and the commissioner point of view. Art is a continuing invention and each experience is a new one.