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Mural Contracts, Prices and Negotiations.

© Jo Murphy

Many artists just don't know where to start when it comes to costing and estimating a mural. How will patrons know if they are getting a fair deal? How can an artist come up with a design that is full of integrity and yet fulfills the hopes and dreams of clients. These questions are mystifying to some. If mural artists are truly business like in creative contracting they will ensure the whole process is systematized. This professional approach brings clarity and confidence to the scenario.

In the Emyth Contractor Michael E. Gerber talks about communication between consumer and contractor. He talks at length about how to make the process transparent. This honest listing of benchmarks and expected processes encourages confidence for all stake holders. It encourages informed dialogue between all parties. It explains that it is essential for the contractor to become teacher. By making the language and styles of thinking peculiar to the work at hand - partners in the contract share a common language about contracts, creative endeavors and business negotiations. Because the artist and consumer have together become informed about processes - a shared vision can create documented stages, checkmarks and benchmarks. These in turn can become touchstones that allow for friendly negotiations and adjustment of expectations if unexpected situations occur along the way.

For this process to begin it is wise for the Mural Artists to ask for and receive at least $100 forfeitable deposit before negotiations begin. It is unreasonable to think that a professional mural artist can afford to draw up designs and spend countless hours talking to prospective customers who may then change their mind and opt out of the situation at whim. Before the artist spends precious hours in this way it is wise to alert the consumer to the reasons for the $100 deposit and to outline what will be provided for this fee. The $100 can later be placed against the total cost of the mural should the contract eventuate. This concession acts as a sweetener!

What would the consumer be encouraged to expect for this fee? In my Mural Creations business I begin with a user-friendly, open-ended questionnaire. This questionnaire can be shaped and developed as a communication tool throughout the entire process. I ask the prospective consumer

• What is the purpose of the mural?
• Why do they or the community they represent want it?
• Who is it for?
• Who is accountable for the project?
• How many decisions makers will there be?
• I ask about space - preferrably with photos as well as a personal inspection.
• I ask many questions about the purpose of the space.
• I ask about materials - preferred and acceptable.
• Rather than just ask about total budget - I ask for a base price and a can't go beyond this price.
• I also offer incentives at this stage so that the 'seeds of promotion' are sewn at an early stage. (An example of this might be that the price could be reduced if the consumer were to successfully refer my business to another customer.)

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