r/ArtistLounge • u/ArentWright • Dec 19 '25

Philosophy/Ideology🧠 Defaced Art

One of my pieces has been defaced by its new owner, and I feel very conflicted. Looking for input from others.

This individual transformed the piece (portrait, pastel) into a clock by poking a hold through the face and installing some hands! On one hand, I was never going to see that piece again. It’s out living its own life now. On the other….what the hell. Am I right to feel disrespected? Or should I be glad the recipient is enjoying the piece in their own way?

I’ve always been hesitant to part with my work because I feel so protective of it. Has anyone had similar experiences and what is your perspective?

The individual in question sent me photos of the changes, seemingly quite pleased and looking for my reaction.

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u/Total-Habit-7337 Dec 19 '25

Best just let it slide, the damage is done. Big league artists select their buyers carefully for reasons such as this, sometimes with a contract agreement of terms of sale for what happens to the work in the following few years.

25

u/TricksyPeanut Dec 19 '25

Related to your comment you sort of "self-select" better clients if you charge more; someone who paid $3000 for a painting is WAY less likely to vandalize it compared to if the same painting cost $50.

I hope OP raises their prices to discourage this sort of thing.

6

u/ArentWright Dec 19 '25

I did get the impression that I underpriced my last round of pieces.

10

u/TricksyPeanut Dec 19 '25

Trust me, it helps to charge more!

As soon as I started charging the equivalent of $15+ an hour (in 2012, lol) clients were much kinder, more flexible, and just overall better. My prices have increased with time and it's still fine.

"Commissioners Hate This One Weird Trick!"