The artist is simply telling you that he feels the work is worth a lot if you need it commercially. So although unlikely, offer the price you want to pay, but only for exclusive use. Remember he has to make a living too, and if he has only 10 items of work to sell you just paid very little for 10% of his stock! If you get what I mean.
Also note, there will be another piece of artwork out there for you, which fits the bill, but how much time (time is money) would you allow yourselve to spend looking? Factor that into your price offer.
Anything is only worth what the market will pay. Perhaps he has already sold it to another company, if you claim exclusive rights, what is he going to do about that? How would the alternate company react? Perhaps he will rip you hand off? Who knows?
Be prepared to lose it and you will probably get it.
You say that it would be perfect for "part of" your company logo. You may be better hiring someone to do a proper design based on the elements you need exactly, then there is no issue with licenses and the like and you can pre agree a price. Make sure you like their work (and get proof of their ability first).
IPete2.
Just my 10ps worth.
Also note, there will be another piece of artwork out there for you, which fits the bill, but how much time (time is money) would you allow yourselve to spend looking? Factor that into your price offer.
Anything is only worth what the market will pay. Perhaps he has already sold it to another company, if you claim exclusive rights, what is he going to do about that? How would the alternate company react? Perhaps he will rip you hand off? Who knows?
Be prepared to lose it and you will probably get it.
You say that it would be perfect for "part of" your company logo. You may be better hiring someone to do a proper design based on the elements you need exactly, then there is no issue with licenses and the like and you can pre agree a price. Make sure you like their work (and get proof of their ability first).
IPete2.
Just my 10ps worth.