Frequently Asked Questions

Artwork

1. What materials are used in your oil paintings?

I use highest-quality paints (Michael Harding, Winsor & Newton, Gamblin, Golden), fine art canvases and boards, and professional-grade varnishes to create true pieces of art that will last a long time.

 

2. Do you ship outside of the United Kingdom?

Yes, this is usually possible. Please email me (greta@gretavilidaite.co.uk or click on 'Contact') to arrange this.

 

3. How are your oil paintings shipped?

I take great care in packaging my paintings to ensure they arrive safely to you. I believe each work of art is a gift (even if to yourself!) and beautifully wrap each painting in a bow. Then each painting is securely wrapped for shipping in several layers of bubble wrap and cardboard.

 

4. How long does it take to receive my order?

Shipping times may vary depending on your location and on the painting. Typically, I will process orders within 3-5 days. During times of high order numbers (e.g. during a sale), please allow 10 business days for processing.

If the painting is relatively recent (6-12 months), I may varnish it once the order is placed (to give it maximum curing time) which may add 3-4 days to processing time. Similarly, if the order requires framing, this may take another few days.

Please let me know if you require your order to arrive before a certain date and I will do my best to make that happen, if at all possible.

Once shipped, delivery usually takes between 2-5 business days within the UK and 10-20 business days for international orders.

 

5. Can I request a custom oil painting?

Yes, I offer oil painting commission services. You can find out more about my custom oil paintings here:

https://gretavilidaite.co.uk/commissions/

Please contact me with your specific requirements, and I will be happy to discuss creating a unique piece of art just for you.

 

6. What is your return policy?

I want you to be completely satisfied with your purchase. If for any reason you are not happy with your order, please contact me within 30 days of receiving it, and I will provide instructions for returning the item for a refund or exchange.

 

7. Do you offer framing services?

Some of my paintings are framed, some are unframed, and some come with a choice to be framed or not. Please check the descriptions of each individual painting. These differences are simply to do with whether or not I have the right frame in stock, as I want to make sure each frame is the perfect match for the painting.

It is usually possible for me to frame most unframed paintings for you so that they arrive ready to be hung. It may also be possible to order a frame for you, if I don't have one in stock. Email greta@gretavilidaite.co.uk

All my frames are hand-built and solid timber.

 

8. Are the paintings ready to hang?

All framed paintings are ready to hang in your home and come with a hanging cord at the back. Unframed paintings will need to be framed or fitted with hardware at your local framing shop.

 

9. Are the colours in the paintings accurate to what I see online?

While I strive to accurately represent the colours of my oil paintings in my online images, please note that small variations may occur due to differences in monitor settings and lighting in your home.

 

10. How do I care for my oil painting?

To ensure the longevity of your oil painting, avoid displaying it in direct sunlight or humid environments. Dust the surface gently with a soft, barely damp cloth as needed. Avoid using any cleaning products or overly damp cloths.

Workshops

1. I have paid a deposit for a workshop, what happens now?

If paying deposit only, the balance will be due before you come to the workshop. You will receive an email from me 7-10 days before the workshop date with payment instructions.

 

2. What is your cancellation policy?

Although the deposit is generally non-refundable, if I manage to fill your spot, I will gladly refund your deposit, minus a £5 transaction fee. I can only offer this if I can fill your place. For this reason, it is advisable to cancel as early as you can and no later than 48h before the start of the workshop. No refunds offered if cancelled less than 24h before the start of the workshop (usually 10am on the day before).

 

3. I am a complete beginner, can I still attend your workshop?

Yes! If you have never painted in oils (or never painted at all!), you are still very welcome to attend. My workshops always have a good mix of beginning and more experienced painters and I always cater to all levels.

If you are a beginner, I will encourage you to concentrate on the basics of oil painting, working to get the hang of this delightful medium first and you will find yourself in a friendly and encouraging environment with plenty of folks at your level.

 

4. Is it worth attending more than one of your workshops? Will you be teaching the same things?

I think it is more than worth it to attend my workshops several times as no two workshops are the same! Every single indoor workshop has new and different photo references to work from, which always means learning new things.

Additionally, although I always cover the fundamental principles of oil painting, each workshop has a slightly different focus (e.g. composition, colour, brushwork, etc.). I have many regulars that periodically come back to my workshops and feel that they are learning and improving each time.