Who is going to answer this honestly if they have an opinion that differs from Felix? You've already sided with him. He's a member of this forum and will see it. As it has already been stated, commissions are built on relationships, and negative responses to commission experiences often result in the buyer getting a reputation among artists rather than artists and reps apologizing or trying to make it right. When you're admiring your haul from the convention, those artists and reps are hanging out and sharing stories. They all have stories involving "that guy", and nobody wants to be "that guy."
I have very strong opinions about the whole commission process, but I'm not going to broadcast that because the internet is not a friendly place. I do have something I may comment about in the near future, but it's more about what I would find helpful to all parties instead of just registering a complaint.
In my opinion, you didn't provide enough details for anyone to pick a side. I've received Daniel's rates in an email before, so I know what you were probably quoted. I understand why this situation would make you nervous, and that's why I don't have a Daniel Warren Johnson commission. Daniel does great work, but from what I've read, most of it is his choice. Providing a lot of details and specific requests would probably get you exactly what you want. However, what you're really searching for is the feeling that seeing one of his commissions gives you, and being heavy handed about your request would likely stifle that result.
Good luck in your future attempts.
