Working Effectively with Your Artist/Designer

What should I pay?

Positions listed through our office usually attract more attention if they offer at least a ballpark figure. Your artist / designer (ie: creative) can advise you knowing the financial framework for the project. If possible, we do recommend that you add "negotiable" to your salary range. A salary that is negotiable can help you attract a creative whose work is best suited to your project. For freelance projects with a flat fee, we recommend that payment be scheduled in thirds: one-third at the beginning of the project, one third in the middle and one third as a final payment.

Please remember, that our students and alumni self-select the positions they will pursue. If you need some guidance for pricing a job, please contact Maryellen Schroeder, Director of Career Services, mschroeder@massart.edu (617-879-7776).

Choosing a Creative

Ask to see a portfolio or at least samples of work. . You will want to be sure that the style is compatible with what you have in mind. Images of student and alumni work may be seen by asking for a website address, portfolio, slides or photographs. When you interview your selected creatives, offer as many details as possible about what you want (dimensions, color, materials, and intended use for the finished piece, timeframe for completion). Ask about the process for creating the piece and at what stage you can offer input. Creating original pieces of art or design require a clear understanding between the creative and the client throughout the process

Get it In Writing!

Be sure to work out a written agreement with your selected artist/designer so there are no misunderstandings or surprises. Your written agreement should detail the project: description of the work, stages for completion (concept, sketches, final piece), expected number of revisions, materials to be provided, copyright and reproduction agreements, price and payment schedule.

If you are paying an hourly salary, please be sure to clarify how the artist/designer should bill you for the time spent on the project and when they can expect payment. Again, get the details in writing!