Ask the Art Professor: How do Artists Handle Commissions?

"I am currently an art student, and a local company recently contacted me about creating some artwork for their office space. It's a great opportunity, but I am worried because I have never done a commissioned work before and I don't know where to start!" Artists are usually excited to get a commission, but most are not prepared for how dicey commissions can be. Commissioned artwork can be anything: a portrait, a wedding gift, artwork for a hotel, etc. Unfortunately, there are no universal rules...