Don't be a victim of these Art Scams like so many have...

[@TheArtMentor]

Hey what do you think of this new format with the speed painting in the background? What character(s) would you like to see me paint?

[@Newriverartist]

I couldn't agree more! I have done a number of commissions over the years with success but I have a system that works out well for me. I am a professional artist and I share my painting demos and studio tours here. Great video! Cheers!

[@TheArtMentor]

Thanks so much for watching! I’ll be sure to check out your studio tours 👍

[@Newriverartist]

Welcome and thank you!

[@TheArtMentor]

Out of curiosity, what’s your system? Would you mind sharing?

[@Newriverartist]

I work in the traditional thin to thick method of oil painting and pastel painting. The first very thin layer is an excellent indication of the final painting. I require a non-refundable fee of $50 for the first layer. I send the file of that and if we are in agreement the balance is due before I complete the painting. I don't always follow this method. I did not require advance payment for the last painting since it was for a patron that has just purchased one of my paintings and I trusted him to pay me. Each case is different but I usually follow the above method.

[@TheArtMentor]

That’s really important to have a clear payment structure. Very good procedure! I see many beginners afraid to be form about how/when to collect payment. Thanks for sharing!

[@clayfigureart5314]

It's nice to meet someone with the same hobby.^^

[@TheArtMentor]

Pleasure to meet you! What do you like to sculpt?

[@honeypeahen821]

Gandalf! Draw a GANDALF! ^^ Maybe you can do some more video about the art pricing (both digital and traditional). Get pictures from people and compare them, so people can have good visual example. ^^ And orientatively set a price. ^^

[@TheArtMentor]

Thanks for the suggestion! I might just have the perfect idea for that! And thanks for the video idea. I could see how that’d be helpful for a lot of people!

[@marshallalmeidaArt]

I will say that I got my two best jobs after taking art tests. (at Electronic Arts and at an educational game company and both with excellent pay and benefits) But the tests were very short, no more than a few hours. I have also had companies wanting me to do an art test that would have literally taken 2 or 3 days. In those cases I just refused and I told them why.

[@TheArtMentor]

For companies, art tests are for sure a legitimate task. Were you paid for it? Any legit art test involves compensation

[@marshallalmeidaArt]

@@TheArtMentor In those two cases the tests were not paid, but I have had companies pay me to take an art test (which is always nice. It reflects well on a company, that they see your time as valuable.)

[@TheArtMentor]

That’s great, and that’s a good professional practice. Definitely normal in the professional realm

[@EdgarKohl]

From my own experience whether i get commisions worth a few hundreds and over a thousand dollars, Charging a non-refundable 50% up-front its a fail-safe method intended to Test if the client is willing to commit and fullfill his promise or had already planning to screw you over in the end 🌁

[@TheArtMentor]

That’s a strong policy. Have you ever done 100% up front?

[@EdgarKohl]

@@TheArtMentor never heard a 100% or at least 80% advancement if the Subject involves family, their homes or pets. First time i hear that🍺

[@TheArtMentor]

Absolutely! I started taking full payment about 3 years ago. Think you could start that too?

[@jaronmitchell]

I just came across your channel man and I love what you're sharing! I watch a couple of your videos! Is there anyway we can do a interview? I have this belief that as an artist we are also an entrepreneur/business ! and i would love to interview so artist can understand the business side.

[@TheArtMentor]

Can you reach out to me on Instagram? Let’s chat there if that’s good for you

[@maximusothunderman]

Yeah, I ask for money upfront. It's money or nothing. I run a smooth business and I ain't in the mood to give someone free art. Give me money or you can take that sh*t outside. Cause you alr know before hand that I ask for money upfront as I said before hand.

[@TheArtMentor]

That’s a great practice! I do that too. Have you ever done anything otherwise? I know I’ve made those mistakes in the past

[@maximusothunderman]

@@TheArtMentor No. I've read enough stories on reddit to know that it's best to ask for payment first to avoid being scammed. I also don't use paypal because they have a history of banning for no reason, and taking the buyers side no matter what.

[@TheArtMentor]

That’s a good practice, although I’ve used PayPal without issue for over a decade. So what other payment service do you use?

[@seanbianchi4517]

anime characters like Bakugo

[@TheArtMentor]

Also planning on more vg characters 👍