Could I meet with the artist or call them and discuss my idea on the phone?
Some artists prefer communicating via email for a number of reasons. One reason is it helps you as the creator focus your idea into several words that allows the artist to reflect back on your notes while creating the artwork. This helps make sure the artist gets all the important details rather than miss something from conversation. A written description of the assignment helps keep both you and your artist on target. If you have reference material, please attach it to any description you also send the artist, regarding wardrobe, hair style, art style, and other things which are specific to the characters or scene you envision. If you must talk on the phone, simply ask your artist if that is possible.