Frequently Asked Questions
Xanthe answers your expected questions in advance:
Q: Do you have original paintings for sale? A: Yes, I have originals available to purchase (within New Zealand only). Copyright of art is retained by the artist, even after an original is sold. Q: How do I place an order? A: Customers within New Zealand - either use the checkout or the contact form. Which ever is more convenient for you. For originals, please enquire with the contact form. International customers - please place an order with contact form. Payment is via PayPal (you do not need a PayPal account). For New Zealand customers, I can invoice you for bank transfer, if you prefer. |
Q: Do you ship outside New Zealand?
A: Yes but only small prints A4 and under at the stated shipping prices (unless you are prepared to pay much higher shipping rates).
Q: What are your shipping rates?
A: For art prints:
Within New Zealand = NZ$12 per order (all print sizes) towards packaging and courier costs.
Australia = NZ$25 per order (small prints A4 and under only).
International (including USA, UK, Canada, Europe) = NZ$45 per order (small prints A4 and under only).
A: For originals:
NZ $15 towards the cost of packaging and courier.
Q: Which countries do you ship to?
A: As a guide, small prints A4 and under can be shipped to countries where PayPal is available and most places internationally (including Australia, USA, UK, Canada). I can confirm if you wish to make an order. Enquire with contact form.
Q: Will you have prints shipped from the USA or UK or Europe for cheaper shipping rates?
A: At this stage no, as I want to quality control checked prints with a speciality printer within New Zealand that I trust. This is not feasible for me currently with printers overseas. Plus, I don't want to make a taxation nightmare for myself.
Q: Do your prices include GST?
A: I am a sole trader with a tiny business and I do not currently need to be registered for GST, so the prices listed are what is paid (plus shipping).
Q: How long will it take to get my print?
A: I will place an order with my print supplier as soon as funds transfer through via PayPal.
Depending on how quick PayPal is, I expect your print will arrive within a week within New Zealand. Longer for overseas. There may be seasonal fluctionations with couriers.
Q: How do I pay for my art prints? Is it secure?
A: I use PayPal for secure transactions. You don't need a PayPal account to make payment - just sign in as a guest if you don't want to have a PayPal account by de-selecting the default option. They accept major debit and credit cards.
I do not take or retain any credit card or bank account information. Completing the payment side of the transaction is completely separate from me and this website.
Either use the online checkout option (New Zealand customers only) or send a request for an order with the contact form (New Zealand and international customers).
New Zealand customers may pay by bank transfer if they prefer.
Q: I had trouble using the checkout. What do I do?
A: Contact me direct with the contact form and I will try sort something for you. If you have issues with the checkout option, or you prefer not to use the checkout, I can send a PayPal invoice via email.
I can invoice customers within New Zealand if prefer to pay via bank transfer.
Q: Do you offer a range of sizes and papers?
A: After doing some print tests, I have decided to offer prints on one paper type that complement the original paintings. This is a high quality, archival acid-free paper in 275gsm soft white, textured matte surface. I offer sizes that optimises the painting balanced with keeping things simple and affordable. All paintings will be offered in a small size. Some may be offered in a medium and/or large size (depending on the size of the original).
Q: Do your prints come in standard frame sizes and with a border?
A: Options are usually available with and without a border. The border when offered is generous (although if you want a very thin border, please request the border size). Professional frames usually prefer a border to work with. Sizes offered fit standard sized frames.
Q: Do you print and package the art prints yourself?
A: No, I have a speciality, premium art printer take care of this, as it requires special equipment (more sophisticated than a standard CMYK printer). Art prints are shipped directly from my chosen fine art printing service, so there is no double-shipping.
Q: What if my art print gets lost or damaged in transit?
A: I will replace any art prints that get lost or damaged while in transit, so that you get your art print. The same with any prints that arrive with defects (please contact me with contact form ASAP as I will need a photo to be emailed).
Q: How do I care for my art print?
A: Your art print is archival quality with pigment-based inks . This means it will have superior quality and longevity than regular prints done with dye-based inks. To retain the vibrancy in your print, keep away from moisture and do not display in direct sunlight. A print behind glass will last longer than a print exposed to the open air. A fine art print can be treated with the same care as one would care for a watercolour painting.
Professional framers recommend that a mat or spacers are used to keep the glass from touching the art print.
Q: Do you offer prints on stretched canvas?
A: At this stage, no, due to limitations with sizes available plus the extra cost of materials, custom manufacturing and shipping. In my opinion, the premium paper suited my art best, plus there was more detail in the reproduction.
Q: Do you do commissions?
A: Yes, I am taking commissions (within New Zealand only). I prefer to paint pets, wild birds and nature scenes. 50% deposit is required when accepting a commission. More information about commissions. Please be patient with your commission as I can only work part-time with my disabilities. I can give you an estimated timeframe with enquiries. Email: [email protected] or enquire via the contact form.
Q: Can I be informed when new art is available?
A: Yes, let me know via my contact form. I can add you to an email list and notify you when I have new art available. Expecting to be no more frequent than a monthly update.
Q: Are you a self-taught artist?
A: I did School Certificate art back in 1988. I have since had tuition from professional artists over many years (including with watercolours, oils, acrylics) but most of my artistic development has been experimental. Most intensively in the past decade, as creating art (even messy art) helped my mental health a lot. I am passionate about creative expression as therapy.
Q: Do you hold exhibitions?
A: I have had two solo exhibitions as part of a mental health project but I don't have plans to have further solo exhibitions at this stage. I occasionally take part in group exhibitions (less pressure and stress).
Q: What do you paint with and on?
A: After experimentation and practice, I prefer to paint with artist-grade acrylics, usually on stretched canvas. Canvas texture is visible in the fine art print reproductions.
Q: What is your painting style?
A: I will let the images of my art speak for themselves but others have described my art as having energy and movement, especially if I have the space and freedom to let loose with a larger piece. I like vibrant colour, even though I've learned to (mostly) tame this a little. From my perspective, I paint metaphor and symbolism.
I often take inspiration from nature, especially birds and New Zealand scenery. I also like to paint pets (currently accepting commissions).
Taking risks to experiment with previous paintings, have resulted in much interest. Viewers could tell my paintings expressed mood and told a story. Sometimes, I can be wildly creative with my artistic experimentation.
I would describe myself as having expertise with colour (I use a different palette with each painting).
Q: Are your artworks originals?
A: Yes, my artworks are originals, painted by hand with real paint and brushes (not AI generated). The fine art prints are quality reproductions of original physical paintings, from a high-resolution photograph. I have a huge collection of my own photographs for reference pics if I need inspiration. This avoids copyright issues with other photographers and artists.
Q: Do you do digital art?
A: I have dabbled in digital artwork before, for a hobby. I've also previously digitally painted pet portraits when I had a pet care business. With the proliferation of AI these days, it can be hard to tell what is AI generated (with no creative input). Digital doesn't allow the same versality, uniqueness, intuitiveness and expressiveness as real paint. I prefer to paint with real paint rather than to push pixels around on a screen.
Q: Do you have an art studio?
A: My 'art studio' for the past decade has been my cramped rented bedroom. Hence, I usually paint in smaller to medium sizes, currently.
Q: Do you have limited edition prints?
A: Until l am more established and in demand, I am offering open-edition prints. Limited edition prints are more expensive but I will offer them on selected paintings if there is a demand for them. Limited edition prints have only a small number prints, will be hand-signed and come with a certificate of authentity. The open edition prints are still printed with high quality paper and the exact same high quality pigment-based inks.
Q: What are giclee prints?
A: Fine art giclee prints are high-end photographic and print reproductions with large-format wide colour-gamut pigment-based ink-jet printers. A combination of 12 different ink colours can reproduce millions of colours (unattainable by home CMYK printers). With almost as many colours and detail as high end digital cameras can capture.
Using pigment-based inks (rather than dye-based inks) giclee print is achival quality and can last a lifetime (depending on storage/display conditions and paper used).
Q: Why don't you have lots of art on your website? Are you a full-time artist?
A: I live with significant impairments from disabilities so don't have as high an output as some other artists.
It takes a lot of effort to make original art. I don't paint everyday, as I need time to recover. My intention is to create a sustainable art business so my artwork can be enjoyed in people's homes and perhaps workplaces for generations.
I am aiming to complete at least a few original paintings per month. Now accepting some commissions (focus on pet portraits).
Q: Do you offer art tuition?
A: At this stage, I don't offer private or small group tuition (mainly due to lack of space and needing to conserve my energy levels). I do have some free demonstrations on my channel Soar Purpose on YouTube from time to time. I don't currently have an ideal set up to film (lack of space, mainly).
I have trademarked Soar Purpose to offer art instruction, so that is something I would like to do in the future (probably online).
Q: Do you have other creative interests?
A: Yes, I like photography and writing. Creative expression gives me purpose. Recently, I invested in a camera that takes sharper reference photos, both for enjoying photography but also for better quality images of my paintings.
In 2024, I was awarded a minor award in an international writing competition for my memoir. More about these interests plus my journey and books are on my international website and blog at www.soarpurpose.com.
In 2024, I achieved 'commended' in all three photos I entered into the New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards (NZAPA).
I also have an art blog on this website.
If you have any other questions, please ask via the contact form.
A: Yes but only small prints A4 and under at the stated shipping prices (unless you are prepared to pay much higher shipping rates).
Q: What are your shipping rates?
A: For art prints:
Within New Zealand = NZ$12 per order (all print sizes) towards packaging and courier costs.
Australia = NZ$25 per order (small prints A4 and under only).
International (including USA, UK, Canada, Europe) = NZ$45 per order (small prints A4 and under only).
A: For originals:
NZ $15 towards the cost of packaging and courier.
Q: Which countries do you ship to?
A: As a guide, small prints A4 and under can be shipped to countries where PayPal is available and most places internationally (including Australia, USA, UK, Canada). I can confirm if you wish to make an order. Enquire with contact form.
Q: Will you have prints shipped from the USA or UK or Europe for cheaper shipping rates?
A: At this stage no, as I want to quality control checked prints with a speciality printer within New Zealand that I trust. This is not feasible for me currently with printers overseas. Plus, I don't want to make a taxation nightmare for myself.
Q: Do your prices include GST?
A: I am a sole trader with a tiny business and I do not currently need to be registered for GST, so the prices listed are what is paid (plus shipping).
Q: How long will it take to get my print?
A: I will place an order with my print supplier as soon as funds transfer through via PayPal.
Depending on how quick PayPal is, I expect your print will arrive within a week within New Zealand. Longer for overseas. There may be seasonal fluctionations with couriers.
Q: How do I pay for my art prints? Is it secure?
A: I use PayPal for secure transactions. You don't need a PayPal account to make payment - just sign in as a guest if you don't want to have a PayPal account by de-selecting the default option. They accept major debit and credit cards.
I do not take or retain any credit card or bank account information. Completing the payment side of the transaction is completely separate from me and this website.
Either use the online checkout option (New Zealand customers only) or send a request for an order with the contact form (New Zealand and international customers).
New Zealand customers may pay by bank transfer if they prefer.
Q: I had trouble using the checkout. What do I do?
A: Contact me direct with the contact form and I will try sort something for you. If you have issues with the checkout option, or you prefer not to use the checkout, I can send a PayPal invoice via email.
I can invoice customers within New Zealand if prefer to pay via bank transfer.
Q: Do you offer a range of sizes and papers?
A: After doing some print tests, I have decided to offer prints on one paper type that complement the original paintings. This is a high quality, archival acid-free paper in 275gsm soft white, textured matte surface. I offer sizes that optimises the painting balanced with keeping things simple and affordable. All paintings will be offered in a small size. Some may be offered in a medium and/or large size (depending on the size of the original).
Q: Do your prints come in standard frame sizes and with a border?
A: Options are usually available with and without a border. The border when offered is generous (although if you want a very thin border, please request the border size). Professional frames usually prefer a border to work with. Sizes offered fit standard sized frames.
Q: Do you print and package the art prints yourself?
A: No, I have a speciality, premium art printer take care of this, as it requires special equipment (more sophisticated than a standard CMYK printer). Art prints are shipped directly from my chosen fine art printing service, so there is no double-shipping.
Q: What if my art print gets lost or damaged in transit?
A: I will replace any art prints that get lost or damaged while in transit, so that you get your art print. The same with any prints that arrive with defects (please contact me with contact form ASAP as I will need a photo to be emailed).
Q: How do I care for my art print?
A: Your art print is archival quality with pigment-based inks . This means it will have superior quality and longevity than regular prints done with dye-based inks. To retain the vibrancy in your print, keep away from moisture and do not display in direct sunlight. A print behind glass will last longer than a print exposed to the open air. A fine art print can be treated with the same care as one would care for a watercolour painting.
Professional framers recommend that a mat or spacers are used to keep the glass from touching the art print.
Q: Do you offer prints on stretched canvas?
A: At this stage, no, due to limitations with sizes available plus the extra cost of materials, custom manufacturing and shipping. In my opinion, the premium paper suited my art best, plus there was more detail in the reproduction.
Q: Do you do commissions?
A: Yes, I am taking commissions (within New Zealand only). I prefer to paint pets, wild birds and nature scenes. 50% deposit is required when accepting a commission. More information about commissions. Please be patient with your commission as I can only work part-time with my disabilities. I can give you an estimated timeframe with enquiries. Email: [email protected] or enquire via the contact form.
Q: Can I be informed when new art is available?
A: Yes, let me know via my contact form. I can add you to an email list and notify you when I have new art available. Expecting to be no more frequent than a monthly update.
Q: Are you a self-taught artist?
A: I did School Certificate art back in 1988. I have since had tuition from professional artists over many years (including with watercolours, oils, acrylics) but most of my artistic development has been experimental. Most intensively in the past decade, as creating art (even messy art) helped my mental health a lot. I am passionate about creative expression as therapy.
Q: Do you hold exhibitions?
A: I have had two solo exhibitions as part of a mental health project but I don't have plans to have further solo exhibitions at this stage. I occasionally take part in group exhibitions (less pressure and stress).
Q: What do you paint with and on?
A: After experimentation and practice, I prefer to paint with artist-grade acrylics, usually on stretched canvas. Canvas texture is visible in the fine art print reproductions.
Q: What is your painting style?
A: I will let the images of my art speak for themselves but others have described my art as having energy and movement, especially if I have the space and freedom to let loose with a larger piece. I like vibrant colour, even though I've learned to (mostly) tame this a little. From my perspective, I paint metaphor and symbolism.
I often take inspiration from nature, especially birds and New Zealand scenery. I also like to paint pets (currently accepting commissions).
Taking risks to experiment with previous paintings, have resulted in much interest. Viewers could tell my paintings expressed mood and told a story. Sometimes, I can be wildly creative with my artistic experimentation.
I would describe myself as having expertise with colour (I use a different palette with each painting).
Q: Are your artworks originals?
A: Yes, my artworks are originals, painted by hand with real paint and brushes (not AI generated). The fine art prints are quality reproductions of original physical paintings, from a high-resolution photograph. I have a huge collection of my own photographs for reference pics if I need inspiration. This avoids copyright issues with other photographers and artists.
Q: Do you do digital art?
A: I have dabbled in digital artwork before, for a hobby. I've also previously digitally painted pet portraits when I had a pet care business. With the proliferation of AI these days, it can be hard to tell what is AI generated (with no creative input). Digital doesn't allow the same versality, uniqueness, intuitiveness and expressiveness as real paint. I prefer to paint with real paint rather than to push pixels around on a screen.
Q: Do you have an art studio?
A: My 'art studio' for the past decade has been my cramped rented bedroom. Hence, I usually paint in smaller to medium sizes, currently.
Q: Do you have limited edition prints?
A: Until l am more established and in demand, I am offering open-edition prints. Limited edition prints are more expensive but I will offer them on selected paintings if there is a demand for them. Limited edition prints have only a small number prints, will be hand-signed and come with a certificate of authentity. The open edition prints are still printed with high quality paper and the exact same high quality pigment-based inks.
Q: What are giclee prints?
A: Fine art giclee prints are high-end photographic and print reproductions with large-format wide colour-gamut pigment-based ink-jet printers. A combination of 12 different ink colours can reproduce millions of colours (unattainable by home CMYK printers). With almost as many colours and detail as high end digital cameras can capture.
Using pigment-based inks (rather than dye-based inks) giclee print is achival quality and can last a lifetime (depending on storage/display conditions and paper used).
Q: Why don't you have lots of art on your website? Are you a full-time artist?
A: I live with significant impairments from disabilities so don't have as high an output as some other artists.
It takes a lot of effort to make original art. I don't paint everyday, as I need time to recover. My intention is to create a sustainable art business so my artwork can be enjoyed in people's homes and perhaps workplaces for generations.
I am aiming to complete at least a few original paintings per month. Now accepting some commissions (focus on pet portraits).
Q: Do you offer art tuition?
A: At this stage, I don't offer private or small group tuition (mainly due to lack of space and needing to conserve my energy levels). I do have some free demonstrations on my channel Soar Purpose on YouTube from time to time. I don't currently have an ideal set up to film (lack of space, mainly).
I have trademarked Soar Purpose to offer art instruction, so that is something I would like to do in the future (probably online).
Q: Do you have other creative interests?
A: Yes, I like photography and writing. Creative expression gives me purpose. Recently, I invested in a camera that takes sharper reference photos, both for enjoying photography but also for better quality images of my paintings.
In 2024, I was awarded a minor award in an international writing competition for my memoir. More about these interests plus my journey and books are on my international website and blog at www.soarpurpose.com.
In 2024, I achieved 'commended' in all three photos I entered into the New Zealand Amateur Photography Awards (NZAPA).
I also have an art blog on this website.
If you have any other questions, please ask via the contact form.