Mural Decor
Wow, what a journey it’s been having the privilege of living these past 30+ years as a mural artist! I’ve been asked many time how I chose this career. To be totally honest, this career chose me. For sure.
I’ve had so many questions about how this business works. There are a lot of working parts: From marketing, to client relations, to lots of travelling, to corporate accounts, to financial costs and taxes, to the physical strain on my body, to lots of waiting for the next project, to completion of each mural. There will be more posts coming. I will start by introducing you to the process of how a typical mural project goes from beginning to end.
First, I am contacted by the client via my website contact form, email or phone call.
Second, we discuss the logistics of the project. Theme, budget, location, dimensions, time frame. We also decide if this project is best completed on location or on canvas.
Third, if they decide to proceed, I send them a proposal with my bid, time frame and work to be completed.
Fourth, I start on research and design for the preliminary ideas. I usually have the first set of preliminary ideas to the client within 7 days. I complete these in Photoshop and they are full color to scale designs that give the client a visual of what the project will look like when completed.
Fifth, I connect with the client and we discuss if any changes or alterations are needed to the design. Then, I complete a second or third design, if needed. Every mural includes preliminary ideas until approved. I have rarely gone over three designs.
Sixth, once the designs are approved, I send the client a detailed contract with price, explanation of mural work to be completed, estimated time to complete and deposit required (usually 50%). This also has an explanation of my 10-year limited warranty.
Seventh, once I receive the signed contract and deposit, we set a start date and I make travel arrangements or I place my order for canvas and supplies.
Eighth, I start on the project. The first day is usually prep work, job site set up and layout. Painting starts on day two. I stay in close contact with the client during the whole process and send them progress photos as I go.
Ninth, upon completion of the project I will send the client a photo of the completed mural for a final approval. I require the balance due on the project to be paid upon completion.
Tenth, once the mural is complete I ask if I may take photos to add to my portfolio and website.
I’ve been honored to have many repeat clients for residential clients and have secured vendor status with three major corporations for consistent work. I hope this gives you a simple picture of the ins and outs of a mural business.
In future posts I will describe the financial ups and downs that come with being a freelance mural artist full time, why and how this career chose me and how it is possible for you to do it, too!
