#arttests

These things get complicated, so let’s break it down to 2 categories:

1) Doing work on a project until a client knows they want to go with your direction. Many “art contests” fall under this category too. This is bullshit. It’s called “working on spec” and feel free to forward them this website: https://www.nospec.com

2) Doing work on a fictional project that definitely is not going to be used by the company in order to show your ability. This is called an “Art Test” and is frequently used in many industries — but for long-term projects or staff jobs, not for single project freelance. For that, a client should be able to tell from your portfolio how you will work and to what quality. That’s what a portfolio is for. If they’re asking you to do as much work to get the job as you will be doing ON the job then that’s also bullshit. You can definitely push back. Start politely, of course, but say you stand by your portfolio work. If they want to hire you just for sketch/idea stage first, they can do that, and then decide whether to go further past that, but you must prioritize paying work.

Protect yourself!

—Agent Negative Space

Sometimes this happens when the Art Director is trying to convince the editors to approve the artist they want, but the editors aren’t completely convinced. You’ll start the job, warning the artist that it may end at thumbnail stage and that you’ll pay them for that work if it doesn’t go forward. If it DOES go forward then it’s rolled into the overall price because you would have done a thumbnail anyway as part of the process. 

(But if what I’m describing is not what you’re talking about then ask the AD you’re working with, they shouldn’t be offended you’re asking. They shouldn’t be offended at ANY question. They’re your coach for this job. Don’t be scared of them.)

—Agent KillFee

Do you really think anyone at that company even remembers this thing that you are obsessing over? Just ignore it, apply if you want. If anyone asks (unlikely) then tell them what happened.

—Agent Negative Space

No it’s not normal. Art tests are common for long term projects and staff jobs (whether they’re in-house or remote) but not for single commissions. I guess if it’s a big long-term project that’s still freelance I could see that happening, but that’s usually more what we like to call “perma-lance” in the biz. Snarkily.

-Agent KillFee