#028 ⤑ Art of Commissioning: Why It’s Crucial for Art Books
AND GET YOUR STICKERBOMB FIX WITH NEW ART BOOKS AND NEW ART PRINTS
Hi all,
It's been a busy few months as we've been fixing up our online shop and working on a whole range of new books. Amid all these updates, I wanted to take a moment in this newsletter to talk about the importance of commissioning and why it’s so crucial. (It's a regular conversation in the studio right now!)
We see many artists start designing and laying out books without properly commissioning the title. So, what goes into commissioning, why do we do it, and why is it important? Let's dive in.
The Importance of Proper Commissioning
When it comes to creating an art book, commissioning isn't just a step – it’s the foundation of the entire project.
So, what is commissioning really? In the world of art books, commissioning is all about deciding on the title, getting the necessary permissions, and figuring out the book's format and length before diving into the design and layout.
There are some key reasons why taking the time to commission your title, your book properly is vital.
1. Refine the Concept
Before jumping into designing and laying out your book, it’s crucial to refine your concept. Without a clear idea, you'll end up chasing your tail, making design decisions based on fleeting thoughts rather than a solid foundation. Proper commissioning ensures that every element aligns with a cohesive vision, resulting in a polished final product.
2. Manage Budgets and Formats
Improper commissioning can lead to constant changes in format, which can wildly alter your budget. Each change can escalate costs, making it hard to stay within budget. Things start shifting, and before you know it, you're not even sure what you're really making. By commissioning properly, you establish a clear plan and avoid unexpected expenses, ensuring your project stays financially viable.
3. Stick to Schedules
Time is of the essence in publishing. If you don’t commission your title properly, you’ll likely waste time with constant revisions and changes. This can also affect your budget, especially if you work with other designers. Delays in publication dates can jeopardize marketing campaigns and distribution agreements. Proper commissioning keeps your project on track and aligned with your promotional efforts.
4. Ensure Cohesive Design
A well-commissioned book seamlessly integrates design and content. This harmony is achieved by thoroughly planning and understanding the concept before any design work begins. It ensures that the visual elements enhance the narrative, creating a more impactful and engaging book. It’s all about making the best book possible.
5. Maximize Collaboration
Proper commissioning fosters better collaboration between all parties involved – from artists and designers to editors and marketers. Clear guidelines and a shared vision create a more productive working environment, leading to a book that truly reflects the collective effort and creativity of the team.
Why Bring This Up?
Because this year, we realized we jumped the gun and decided on a book and a format without nailing down the concept first. This really affected us, leading to mistakes, messed-up schedules, and unnecessary directions for certain books.
We've learned the hard way that there's a reason many art book publishers have regular design meetings and monthly commissioning meetings – it's to prevent these issues. Over the past year, we've come to truly understand the importance of this process.
We won't be making this mistake again, and we'll be commissioning much more properly going forward.
And What Else?
Stickerbomb Classics are Back!
Missed out on our classic Stickerbomb books? Fret not! We’ve just restocked the iconic Stickerbomb 1 and Stickerbomb 2 reissues. These books are packed with an incredible array of stickers from some of the world's most talented street artists and illustrators. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Stickerbomb craze, these reissues are a must-have for your collection.
Prints Galore
That’s not all – we’ve launched a brand-new range of art prints. These vibrant pieces of art are perfect for transforming any room into a gallery of urban creativity. Our collection features stunning prints from Genuine Studio in Italy, UK artist Elizabeth Corrall, and Malaysian photographer Edmond Leong, as well as exclusive pieces from our own archives. Whether you're looking to add some flair to your living space or find the perfect gift for an art lover, our prints are the ideal choice.
New Books and Zines
Our shop site is now brimming with fresh products from a range of talented artists. We’re thrilled to feature the work of Claire Wray, Grafis Nusantara, and Danny Rumbl. Each artist brings a unique flavor to the Stickerbomb World, and we can’t wait for you to explore their creations.
Claire Wray
Known for her stunning photography, Claire Wray captures the essence of urban landscapes and street culture. We are excited to offer her zines in our store, providing a glimpse into her artistic vision and unique perspective on the world.
Grafis Nusantara
Bringing a touch of Indonesian flair, Grafis Nusantara’s designs are bold, colorful, and deeply rooted in cultural heritage. Their sticker packs and prints are perfect for anyone looking to add a touch of exotic charm to their collection.
Danny Rumbl
Danny Rumbl’s playful and whimsical illustrations are sure to bring a smile to your face. His quirky characters and vibrant designs make for some truly unique sticker packs and prints.
Get Your Fix!
There’s never been a better time to dive into the Stickerbomb World. With our reissued books, fresh sticker packs, and stunning prints, there’s something for everyone. Head over to our shop and discover the latest and greatest from your favorite artists.