Paul Kenny was offered his first major commission by Projects Environment along with six or eight other artists. This was my first major commission and a massive learning experience. I would work through the winter and produce my work as an exhibition in April 99. Only after the contract was signed did I fully realise what a huge leap of faith a commission is. There is a contract formed that can only be fulfilled with compromises made on both sides.
Commissioners presumably choose a particular artist for a specific reason.
They may feel the artist's work best fits the themes of the project. They have to feel confident that the artist is capable of delivering work that will stand up to public scrutiny. They may also feel an association with particular artist can add value to their scheme. Without beating around the bush, as an artist now making my living from my work, the financial reward was the most important part of the commission. To be paid to make new work is a fantastic opportunity and that your work has enough reputation and credibility for people to want to commission it is a fine feeling.