A “Surprise Me!” (or “skeb-style”) commission finished last month in January. This is a commission type I haven’t really done before, but I’ve been interested in trying. Thank you again to the commissioner for asking me to draw it for them!
Sometimes also called “skeb-style” commissions, because these are a commission type which to my understanding, first became popularized in Japan.
What I like about these is that they offer more flexibility for both the artist and the client. In exchange for more artistic freedom for the artist, the client enjoys a lower rate. This works best for artwork where the client is open to being surprised by the final art – for clients with a specific vision in mind, or who are more comfortable giving feedback during work-in-progress steps, this commission type isn’t the best fit.
But for those who enjoy being surprised, this can be wonderfully satisfying for both the artist and commissioner! :D
A few more process images below, and then I’ll post an overview about this commission type:
General aspects about “surprise me” commissions:
- These are similar to “Pay What You Want” commissions. The commissioner is free to stay within their desired budget, with respect to a potential minimum amount.
- Some artists invite you to give a brief description for what you’d like painted. I enjoy asking for:
- A) Brief description of your character’s personality.
- B) 5 keywords describing what you’d like to see in your commission. This can be anything from the mood, atmosphere, tone, or emotion you’d like to see for your character.
- The artist will say (or mention on a page somewhere) what they can do for your general budget.
- Important difference from other commission types: There are no WIP’s (“works-in-progress”) or revisions. The final result is what the client receives.
- This is the key aspect which makes “surprise me!” commissions have lower rates than regular commissions.
- Of course, if there are character errors in the final art, these will be adjusted at no additional cost.
- If everyone agrees with and is comfortable with these terms, the artist then draws what they can within your budget after receiving payment.
- If all goes well, you are happily surprised and delighted by the result! :D
I’m considering adding these as listed commission type at some point. In the meantime, if this interests you, feel free to contact me and I can put together a custom order for you.