Your Kickstarter Questions Answered
Maybe you’re wondering what this Kickstarter fuss is all about. First thing, if you’re curious, check out the Kickstarter Basics straight from the source.
And here are some questions that I’m often asked about my projects specifically, which has four days to go!
Why Kickstarter?
Kickstarter is a crowd-funding vehicle for creative projects. It allows me to reach a larger audience, as well engage new clients who are just browsing the site or have been referred. As an independent artist, pre-selling art in this fashion allows me to budget for my business and my family because I know exactly how much income I will have for a period of time rather than waiting for commissions to trickle in. It also provides a lump sum that can be invested into my business (e.g. my new studio). This is a huge advantage for an independent creative or any small business person.
Have you done other Kickstarter projects? Were they successful?
This is my third Kickstarter project and all have been successfully funded by hundreds of unique backers.
How can I be sure I’ll get my reward?
My reputation depends on the fact that I do what I say I’m going to do. I’ve painted hundreds of portraits for hundreds of clients and they’ve all arrived safe and sound (and to five continents, no less!) I’ve deliberately scheduled my start date for the 400 in 400 project to begin after completion of all of my Dia de Los Muertos portraits AND the Christmas rush.
Are your prices different on Kickstarter than through your website?
My prices are the same through Kickstarter as on my website, but there is a bit of a break on shipping through Kickstarter for some sizes. There are also unique rewards via my Kickstarter platform like sponsoring my new studio (just like Nascar!) or in-person portrait sessions that I don’t ordinarily offer.
Do I have to send you my photo right away?
No, but I’d prefer to have it by December 31 so I can start painting January 1 as planned.
Can I order multiple portraits?
Yes! Just add up the amount for all the portraits you want to order and select the reward level that makes the most sense. When you send me the photos, let me know which ones to paint in which size (if they’re different.)
Are there additional shipping costs for international backers?
Nope.
Can I request that my painting be done by a certain date?
I’ll try my darndest.
Will you paint my pet?
Yes. Except tarantulas. I have a strict No Spider policy. *shiver*
Will you paint me with Day of the Dead makeup?
You bet.
Will you paint my pet with a top hat and monocle?
Of course.
Will you still be taking regular commissions next year?
Yes, but the wait time might be longer than the usual 12 weeks. Backing the 400 in 400 project is the best way to insure your spot in the queue.
How do I sign up?
Visit my Kickstarter page, watch the video and click “Back this Project.” You can support the project for as little as a buck.
How else can I help?
Even if you don’t financially back this project, you can still help by getting the word out! Click the Facebook “like” button on the project page, tweet about it, or send a link to this blog post to someone who might want to be a patron of the arts. And while you’re on Kickstarter, take a minute to browse some of the amazing creative projects. There’s a lot of good stuff out there.
I commissioned Rachael to paint my favorite dog after he'd been gone for a couple years. The likeness of Mosely is stunning. The miniature portrait is beautiful and was completed very quickly. Everyone who knew my dog immediately recognizes him in the mini painting, over all the various pictures I have of other Boston Terriers. Rachael has a unique talent to capture animals' true character and I'm proud to own her artwork.
I was first introduced to Rachael's work on Jenny "The Bloggess" Lawson's blog. I was so mesmerized at how beautiful Rachael's Dia de Los Muertos painting was, I commissioned Rachael to paint one of my bridal wedding pictures Dia de Los Muertos style. Rachael went far beyond what I imagined the portrait being and I could hardly contain my excitement when I saw it for the first time. Her attention to detail and her ability to turn an emailed idea into a beautiful, one-of-a-kind bridal portrait are just a few of the things that make her the amazing, talented artist that she is. I would absolutely recommend Rachael to anyone looking for beautiful, custom art work.
I wanted a special gift for my best friend’s birthday. Rachael provided just that. I gave her an idea and she created exactly what I was looking for. She was finished quickly and in plenty of time to deliver my gift. In the end, my friend LOVED IT and so did I! Thank you!
I discovered Rachael's portraits on the Pioneer Woman's website a few years ago. Never thought I would be able to commission one, but a few months ago, my sister-in-law had to put her beloved cat Moesley to sleep because of his medical conditions. She felt immensely sad, so did I. A couple of months prior to that, I had lost my cat when we moved and she had been the one to comfort me when I was so sad. Luckily, we found my cat. When I heard that she had to put her's down, I wanted to do something special for her and for Moe. So our family, (parents, two brothers, and us) pulled together to commission the portrait. It turned out so beautiful and my sister-in-law loves it. It is a very special gift. Thank you Rachael... for sharing your talent for everyone to enjoy.
I couldn't be happier with the painting Rachel did of my 10 year old son, Quinten. It was a surprise for him and he was thrilled and in awe of seeing his image transformed! Thank you, Rachel!
Rachael is working her way through all the furkids and the real one as well!. Our first painting, of the "favorite child", Sir Knuckles the Cardigan Corgi, blows me away every time I see it. She captured him perfectly, big Corgi ears and tongue. Our most recent addition to the collection, Bernie is just as great. Some of the kitties will be here soon in all their orange, fluffy glory. We also love the picture of our daughter Sarah--her grandparents loved it as a gift last Christmas!
After seeing Rachael's work on The Pioneer Woman's blog, I knew I had to have her capture the sparkle in my dogs' eyes. She perfectly reflected the awesome mutt characteristics (floppy ears, crazy fur and all!) of my dogs, Quigley and Kia.This year, I surprised my sister and brother-in-law with a portrait that captured the unbelievable cuteness of their dog, Lewis. Everytime I've opened the package with my new portraits, my eyes fill with tears and I smile ear to ear. Now my portraits hang prominently in our living room where everyone always comments on how beautiful they are. Thanks, Rachael, for creating wonderful artwork of my cute fuzzy ones!
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