Commission a Mural with J Ford
A mural is more than just paint, it’s a story, a statement and a lasting investment in your space. Whether you’re a business, school, university or community organization, murals create connection, inspire culture and transform blank walls into bold works of art.
The Process
Inquire – Share your wall details (location, size, photos if possible) and a sense of the vision you’d like to bring to life.
Consultation – We’ll schedule a call or site visit to talk through your goals, inspiration, and the story you want the mural to tell.
Proposal & Estimate – You’ll receive a clear proposal with design direction, timeline, and pricing.
Design Phase – I’ll create digital mockups so you can preview the mural in your space. This ensures we’re aligned before paint ever touches the wall.
Painting & Production – From wall prep to final brushstrokes, I’ll handle the full installation. Depending on scale, most projects take 3–14 days on-site.
Completion & Celebration – Once complete, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind mural that makes a lasting impact on your space and community.
Pricing
Every mural is unique, and pricing is determined by the specific needs of the project. My primary approach is to evaluate the wall and factor in:
Scale of the project
Design detail and complexity
Wall condition and preparation needs
Site requirements such as accessibility, lifts, or scaffolding
From there, I provide a project-based estimate that reflects the time, resources, and creativity involved.
While I rarely use a strict square-foot formula, it can be a helpful tool in certain cases — especially for very large projects or when a client needs a simple way to visualize cost. In those instances, we can discuss whether a per-foot breakdown makes sense for the scope.
The goal is always a fair, transparent process that balances your budget with the creative vision, making it a true collaboration and a win-win for both sides.
Typical Project Sizes
Small Murals (under 100 sq ft): Accent walls or smaller features.
Medium Murals (100–300 sq ft): Schools, gyms, offices, and mid-sized businesses.
Large Murals (300+ sq ft): Building exteriors, community spaces, and landmark walls.
Final costs depend on design detail, wall condition, and site requirements.
Timeline & Booking
Most murals take 3–14 days on-site, but full project timelines - from inquiry to completion usually run 3–6 months, depending on planning and design. I am often booked several months in advance, so reaching out early is the best way to secure your spot.
Travel
Based in Richmond, VA, I’m travel-ready and available for residential, commercial, and public art projects across the U.S. and beyond. For projects outside the Richmond area, we can begin with a virtual consultation and arrange travel in the most cost-effective way possible.
FAQs
Do I need to know exactly what I want?
Not at all. Some clients come with a clear vision, others with only a theme or idea. I’ll help shape the concept so it fits your space and audience.
How should I prepare my space?
Clear at least 4 feet around the wall, provide access to water/electric if needed and ensure pets or children are kept out of the work zone for safety.
What if my wall needs repair?
Murals last longest on solid surfaces. If paint is peeling or the wall is damaged, repairs may be needed before work begins.
Will you travel outside Virginia?
Absolutely. I regularly travel for projects and am open to opportunities nationwide. Travel expenses may apply but we’ll plan together for what works best.
What are the payment terms?
A deposit is required to secure your mural project, with the remaining balance due upon completion. Full details are outlined in the proposal and contract.
Let’s Create Together
Your wall is the canvas, the next step is starting the conversation. Whether you’re working with a set budget or just exploring possibilities, I’ll guide you through the process from start to finish.