learn about the mural commission process
snapshot of the mural commission process
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1. inquiry
Submit an inquiry form to provide details about your project including: including dimensions, location, desired aesthetic, and goals and your ideal timeframe for the project.
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2. proposal + contract
After aligning on project goals, I’ll create a custom proposal outlining scope, budget & timeline. Next you’ll sign the contract & pay a deposit to officially kick off the design phase.
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3. design development
I’ll present rough sketches based on our chosen concept. Pick your favorite and I’ll use your feedback to refine the design. You’ll receive realistic digital mockups that show the design in your space.
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4. installation
Your mural will be meticulously painted by a team of professionals, using high-quality, water-based paints, and adhering to safety standards. (I’ll provide proof of insurance before beginning.)
connection + clarity
Before any concepts, sketches or color palettes, I take time to understand your space, goals, and vision for the project.
Whether it's a commercial property, public space, or private residence, my process is collaborative, straightforward. From our first call to the final brushstroke, you’ll know what to expect each step of the way.
how to get started
1. discovery call
Start the process by scheduling free discovery call. We’ll sync up on your vision + goals before I get to work on your proposal.
2. proposal + estimate
I’ll create a custom proposal + estimate, tailored to your space and goals.
Digital onboarding, designed for ease
You can review your proposal, sign the contract & submit your deposit securely online - all in just a few clicks.
your project vision
I recommend checking out my mural portfolio before you reach out. Noticing what you’re drawn to (color, composition, overall vibe) can help you clarify your vision for the project, and make flow more efficient.
Want help clarifying your project vision & goals?
Check out my free mural vision worksheet ↓
design development
1. establish direction
We start with a design kickoff call. We’ll sync up about project details and goals, and chat through preliminary concept ideas.
2. concept selection
Based on your input, I develop one or more preliminary concepts. These are high-level visual ideas that align with your space, audience, and message. We’ll review them together to select a direction that resonates most.
3. rough sketch
Once a concept is chosen, I create a rough sketch that maps out composition, flow, and key elements. This is where the design starts to take shape.
4. edits
Through several rounds of collaborative edits, we’ll fine-tune the sketch, adjusting layout elements and refining color choices.
5. realistic mockups
With the refined sketch approved, I build polished mockups that show how the mural will look on your actual wall. These are often layered over site photos so you can visualize the final piece in context before painting begins.
mural timelines:
what to expect
Total project timelines vary based mostly on construction schedules.
New build commercial projects often take between 6-12 months from start to finish.
Work in completed spaces typically takes 3-5 months.
Rush jobs can be compressed to 1-2 months.
breadkdown of the stages
The speed of each stage is largely dependent on the pace of client feedback.
inquiry + discovery call: ~1 week
proposal: ~1 week
contract + deposit: 1-3 weeks
design + development: ~1 month
installation: 1-2 weeks
pricing + payment schedule
pricing is determined based on size, complexity, and site access
Total Budget =
+ Design Fee & Project Management
+ Materials & Equipment
+ Production Costs (labor + travel)
payment schedule
Deposit: 25%
Due upon agreement to secure the project
Design Approval: 50%
Due upon final design approval
Completion: 25%
Due upon project completion.
mural FAQs
How much does a mural cost?
Projects are priced based on the overall coverage and level of complexity. As the coverage area increases, the production cost per square foot decreases.
Commercial mural project minimum: $5k
What is the installation process like?
Installations include: site assessment, surface preparations, design transfer, mural application, and touch ups.
Are you licensed?
Yes - I carry a C-33 Painting and Decorating License / License #: 1135102
How long does does a mural project take from start to finish?
It’s best to allow a minimum of 4 months for the planning stage. That includes initial inquiry, contract signing, deposit, the design process, and logistical / installation coordination.
Installation typically takes between 3-14 days depending on the size of the project. It is best to start your commission well in advance of your desired completion date to reserve space in my calendar.
What kind of paint do you use?
I work with top quality, professional grade interior and exterior latex paints. Low VOC paints are available for interior spaces that are already occupied.
why hire a licensed muralist?
When you hire a licensed muralist, you’re can rest assured that you’re working with a seasoned professional who has put in the time, passed rigorous exams, and secured state required insurance + bonds.
what my clients have to say
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![Black and white portrait of Katie Luka, smiling.]()
KL | Art Advisor
“Allison was professional, receptive to revision requests, fairly priced, & overall had a lovely demeanor, which is very important when working with a large group of opinions. The client was extremely happy with the piece.”
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![Black and white portrait of Alyce Delbridge, smiling.]()
AD | Art Advisor
"Allison has it all… creative prowess, professional integrity internally & with clients, problem-solving skills, responsiveness, flexibility & more. She's a pleasure to work with & I highly recommend her."
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![A man wearing sunglasses and a polo shirt, smiling outdoors with a backpack, standing in front of a sign and trees.]()
JN | Design + Construction
“Allison is a dream to work with! Allison listened to the input from stakeholders on our large team, presented a few clear options, worked with us throughout the process and it could not have turned out better.”
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![Black and white portrait of Brook Dinda]()
BD | Curation Manager
"Allison is a true delight. Her communications are both prompt and thorough, and the finished product consistently exceeds expectation. I always look forward to our collaborations!"
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![Black & white portrait of Gibson Banta, smiling.]()
GB | Curator
"It's such a pleasure working with Allison on corporate & hospitality projects. She is communicative, diligent & collaborative. I've always been impressed by her high quality work & the versatility of her portfolio."
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![Black and white portrait of Bart Hardwick.]()
BH | Project Manager
"The unique piece Allison created for us turned out great! She is an excellent communicator, a team player & always delivers on her deadlines. I only have positive things to say about our experience with her."
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![Black and white portrait of a woman with blonde hair, wearing earrings and a blazer, smiling slightly.]()
JF | Interior Designer
"I’ve been fortunate to collaborate on several client projects with Allison.
Her creativity is unmatched, she’s an absolute professional from start to finish and she is beyond talented in her work." -
![Black and white portrait of Chloe Salk.]()
CS | Art Advisor
“Every project with Allison is a dream!
She is timely, professional, flexible and of course, wonderfully talented! She is my go-to muralist in the So Cal area. Couldn't recommend her enough!” -
![Black and White portrait of Donnie MacDonald.]()
DM | Project Manager
“Allison's job site decorum & ability to navigate on-site challenges with a positive, solution-based attitude is what all PM’s look for in an artist partner. I would 100% recommend working with her in any scale!”
