Commission a Mural

FAQ

Why a mural is a great solution: Art inspires and beautifies your space. Whether a mural is a subtle backdrop or a bold, highly rendered statement piece, it immediately transforms the environment and establishes connection to your brand, voice, and vibe.

“Yes, that’s exactly what I’m going for, now what?”

So, you want a mural – next steps: Get measurements of your wall (this is most important) I’ll also need a description of the wall (texture, location, indoor/outdoor). A photo is helpful but not necessary.  Also consider if you have a timeline or budget you’re working with, any initial ideas, or inspiration for the wall. I need all of that information to provide an estimate. 

What is the process when commissioning a mural or fine art piece?

-Phase 1: Estimate, Approval of Estimate, Sign Contract, Establish Timeline.

-Phase 2: Design process, Approval of Design.

-Phase 3: Mural Prep & Production / Fine Art Prep & Production

-Phase 4: Mural Installation / Fine Art Completion

How do you create mural designs? Do I get input?

This is a collaborative process. Once we establish your project’s goal and vision, I’ll start creating a concept. I create designs digitally in Photoshop and will email you the digital rendering. There is usually some back and forth with design tweaks.  I never start painting a mural without a fully approved design. If you’d prefer I have full creative say on your project, that’s a different story!

What materials do you use?

-The highest quality Acrylic Mural paint: Nova Color and Golden Mural Paints

-Parachute Cloth

-Nova Gel

-UV protectant sealant

What the heck is parachute cloth?

Parachute cloth is another name for Polytab. It’s a paint surface (traditionally used in the fashion industry) like canvas but much more thin and durable. It takes on whatever shape and texture it is adhered to.

So you don’t paint directly on the wall?

We will determine what method is best based on your project. But most of my murals are painted off-site on parachute cloth. The cloth is broken into sections to be painted and are later pieced together and installed onto the wall. Painting on parachute cloth instead of directly on a wall is more durable, enhances vibrant colors, and preserves the longevity of a mural. This process is great because it’s a true convenience to my clients. The majority of the mural can be worked on in my studio instead of your space. Weather also does not play a factor in determining when your project can be worked on since this can be painted off-site.

If there is an interest in community engagement, this process allows a mural to be worked on by several participants at a time in a safe and easily transportable way. In order to make the mural painting process more accessible I assign a paint by number system to sections of the mural that are being worked on by community members. After a mural is brought to completion in my studio, it is installed on the wall with Nova Gel (a permanent adhesive glue). Touch ups are done on the wall and the mural is sealed with a UV protectant sealer.

How long does a mural take?

A mural can take anywhere from a couple of days to several months to paint depending on the size and detail. Generally, small murals take less time to complete, but other factors that come into play are the intricacy of the design, location, if community workshops are involved, etc. A 10’ x 10’ mural may take a week to paint if it is very detailed, and this does not including the design or prep production.

I often have more than one project going on at a time, especially during busy seasons. I do offer a priority rush service for an extra fee if clients need a quick turn around time. Murals are time consuming, especially the design process. Production prep also takes a lot of planning and time.

How much does a mural cost? I charge by the square foot. I’ll need measurements of your wall before giving you an estimate.  Some factors that also come into play are timeline, the style or type of mural, wall condition, etc. The minimum square footage I charge is 100sq’ which is about 10’ x 10’ – If you have something smaller in mind, I can still create a mural but the minimum price will be for 100 square feet.

What payment do you accept? I accept electronic payment by card, PayPal or Venmo, and check. Some clients I work with have company policies in place where they need to pay a vendor a specific way. I’m happy to accommodate that.

Do you take payment plans? Yes! I typically break payments up into a deposit and final payment but I’m happy to create a payment plan to work within your budget. The same goes for my smaller works of art.

How long have you been creating murals, and what’s your background?

I studied 2 dimensional fine art (Painting, drawing, and print-making) at Moore College of Art and Design. I graduated with a BFA in 2007. Before I graduated, I interned with The Mural Arts Program to learn how to create murals.  I immediately fell in love with public art and was able to extend my internship to continue assisting on a mural project. After assisting on murals for a few years, I co-founded Chroma Dolls LLC, my former fine art mural company.  I now work on creative projects solo under Ali M Williams Arts LLC.  

Do you have insurance? Yep! I’m aerial lift certified too.