Commissioned Art Pieces UK Guide 2025: Costs, Platforms & How to Order Custom Art

Commissioned art is becoming very popular across the UK in 2025. More and more people are now asking artists to make special, personalised artwork just for them. These artworks are used to decorate homes, give as thoughtful gifts, or save special memories in a beautiful way. Because each piece is made to order, no two are the same. That makes them feel extra special and full of meaning.

These custom pieces are not only emotional and personal, but they also help support local UK artists. When you commission art, you are helping someone creative do what they love. Many artists also use eco-friendly materials, so it’s better for the environment too. Whether it’s for your home, a gift, or your business, custom artwork adds a personal and stylish touch.

In this simple guide, you’ll learn what commissioned art really means, how to order one online, how much it costs in 2025, and how to choose the best artist for your idea.

What Are Commissioned Art Pieces?

Commissioned art refers to artwork created based on your personal request. It could be anything from a family portrait, pet painting, house illustration, or an abstract canvas to match your interior design. Unlike off-the-shelf prints, these works are custom-made and reflect your ideas, memories, or specific design preferences.

In the UK, the trend has grown due to increased interest in handmade goods, unique gifts, and support for independent creators. Whether you’re honouring a loved one, celebrating a special occasion, or simply looking for a statement piece for your home, commissioned art allows you to be part of the creative process and receive something truly meaningful.

Why People Choose Commissioned Art

Many people commission art because they want something that tells their story. A digital portrait of a partner, a watercolour of a childhood home, or a pet memorial illustration carries personal meaning that mass-produced art simply can’t offer. These pieces are designed around your preferences, making them deeply special.

Commissioned artworks are also exclusive. Since they’re made just for you, no one else owns the same design. That uniqueness is valuable, especially for gifts or home décor. In addition, they allow for better design coordination, as you can match colours, styles, or themes to the room where the art will be displayed.

Business owners also increasingly commission artwork for branding. From hand-drawn logos to large interior murals, custom artwork can give a company a distinct visual identity. Supporting local artists also boosts the creative economy and helps sustain small businesses.

Popular Types of Commissioned Art in 2025

In 2025, UK buyers are commissioning a wide range of artworks. Digital portraits remain the most requested due to their fast turnaround and affordability. Watercolour illustrations of families, homes, and pets are also in high demand, especially for gifts. Oil paintings are often requested by collectors and for heritage-style interiors, while abstract works are chosen to match modern home décor.

Some of the more creative trends include anime-style self-portraits, religious or spiritual-themed illustrations for home altars, and personalised comic strips showing key moments in someone’s life. Landscape commissions are also popular, particularly for people who want to memorialise a favourite travel destination or childhood view.

Artists report a rise in requests for architectural illustrations of Victorian homes, cottages, or local landmarks, often given as retirement or anniversary gifts. These types of works have strong emotional value and nostalgic appeal.

How to Order Commissioned Art in the UK

Ordering custom artwork online has become more straightforward in 2025. The first step is deciding what type of art you want. Choose a style and medium that matches your vision—this could be digital, watercolour, acrylic, pencil sketch, or oil painting.

Next, find an artist whose style aligns with what you’re looking for. Platforms such as Artfinder, Etsy UK, and Folksy make it easy to discover British artists. You can also browse Instagram using hashtags like #CustomArtUK or #UKArtist to see portfolios and message creators directly.

Once you find someone suitable, send a clear brief. Describe what you want the piece to include, the size, style, and the deadline. If you have photo references or examples, include them. Be as specific as possible without limiting the artist’s creativity.

Most artists will respond with a quote. Prices vary depending on the size, medium, and complexity, but many digital pieces start around £40, while physical canvas work can range from £100 to over £1,000. Many artists require a 30 to 50 percent deposit, with the remainder due upon completion.

You may receive a preview or sketch before the final version is made. This is your chance to ask for small adjustments. Once completed, digital art is usually sent via email or cloud link, and physical art is posted through Royal Mail, DPD, or courier services. Framing and packaging may be available for an additional fee.

Pricing Guide for Commissioned Art (2025)

Prices for commissioned art in the UK can vary greatly depending on size, medium, and the artist’s experience. As of 2025, digital portraits typically cost between £40 and £250, while watercolour or acrylic pieces range from £100 to £500. Oil paintings and highly detailed works often exceed £1,000.

Pet portraits usually start around £80, and family scene watercolours average between £120 and £500. Abstract decorative pieces meant to match modern interiors can cost anywhere from £150 to £700. Extra charges may apply for framing, faster delivery, or additional revisions.

London-based artists or highly experienced professionals may charge more, while emerging artists and students often offer quality work at lower rates. Many accept payment via PayPal, Stripe, or direct UK bank transfer. Some platforms offer instalment options or buy-now-pay-later services.

Where to Order Commissioned Art Online in the UK

Several trusted platforms connect UK buyers with talented artists. Etsy UK remains the most popular site for personalised gifts and portraits. Artfinder is a marketplace for fine art, with many verified UK artists offering both originals and commissions. Folksy focuses on handmade British goods, including custom artwork.

Instagram is another valuable resource. Many UK artists post regularly and take commissions through direct messages or links in their bio. Facebook groups like “Commissioned Art UK” or “British Portrait Artists” can also help you connect with independent creators.

Not On The High Street offers curated custom art, especially ideal for romantic, family, or celebratory themes. For business or branding commissions, Behance and Fiverr provide access to illustrators, designers, and professional artists with clear price tiers and delivery times.

Working Smoothly with an Artist

Commissioning art is a collaboration between you and the artist. Communication is key. Explain your vision clearly, but also trust the artist’s process and creative interpretation. Make sure to confirm what’s included in the price—especially framing, delivery, or the number of allowed revisions.

Be respectful when providing feedback and avoid vague terms. If something needs to be changed, give specific suggestions rather than general instructions. Keeping communication clear and polite makes the process enjoyable and ensures a better final result.

Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Art Practices

In 2025, more UK artists are choosing environmentally friendly materials and practices. Some offer recycled paper options or use natural pigments and sustainable frames. Others focus on digital commissions, which eliminate the need for shipping or packaging altogether.

When possible, choose local artists to reduce your environmental footprint. Many also use recyclable or biodegradable packaging, and some even plant a tree for every commission made. If sustainability is important to you, mention it in your brief or look for artists who highlight their eco-conscious methods in their profiles.

Perfect Occasions to Gift Commissioned Art

Commissioned art is ideal for life’s most meaningful moments. For weddings, many couples receive illustrations of their venue, names, or special memories. For anniversaries, people often choose paintings of places they visited together or timelines of their relationship.

Birthdays and retirements are also great times to give custom artwork. For housewarmings, a portrait of the new home is a popular and thoughtful gesture. Memorial pieces can provide comfort and lasting remembrance of loved ones or pets. These gifts are meaningful, personal, and often become treasured keepsakes.

Delivery, Returns, and Commission Policies

Most UK artists ship their work through tracked services like Royal Mail, DPD, or Evri. Delivery usually takes two to five days for UK mainland, though timing can vary based on size and framing.

Because commissioned pieces are custom-made, they are usually non-refundable. However, artists typically allow small revisions or adjustments during the sketch or draft stage. Be sure to review the artist’s refund and delivery policies before confirming your order.

UK Trends in Commissioned Art in 2025

Several key trends are shaping the UK art commission scene in 2025. Mixed media pieces, combining digital and traditional styles, are growing in popularity. Personalised map art showing the location of first meetings, homes, or wedding venues is a trending gift idea.

Heritage-themed commissions, especially architectural illustrations of British cottages and landmarks, are also on the rise. Many buyers are opting for minimalist, eco-friendly artworks printed on recycled paper or canvas. Storytelling comic-style panels and AI-enhanced art pieces that are later finished by hand are also increasingly popular among young buyers.