FAQs

1. Provenance & Cultural Ethics

How do I know the artwork is authentic and ethical?

Provenance is non-negotiable. Every single artwork offered through our gallery is 100% authentic. Each piece is accompanied by an official Certificate of Authenticity (COA) issued with information obtained directly through the registered, community-led Art Centre where the painting was created, or via the artist if we have commissioned the piece directly. This document includes the artist’s details, language group, and the unique story or Dreaming depicted. An image of the artist painting, signing or holding the work is often also included. 

How are the artists compensated for their work?

We operate on a model of absolute transparency, mutual respect, and fair trade. We deal directly with community-governed Art Centres and the artists themselves, who dictate the price of each piece. We never negotiate with the artist on price. This guarantees that the creators are compensated exactly as they intend, protecting their income and supporting economic independence. Because our prices include international shipping, VAT taxes, custom stretch framing and delivery - which represent significant overheads - this direct-artist pricing model ensures ethical sustainability for both the artist and our operations.

What is the Indigenous Art Code, and do you adhere to it?

Yes, we are proud signatories to the Indigenous Art Code. This means we are legally and ethically bound to fair, respectful, and transparent dealings with Indigenous artists. By dealing with art centres and artists directly, and avoiding exploitative dealers, we ensure your acquisition fully respects and protects the rights, culture, and incomes of the creators.

2. Framing, Display, and Care

Does the artwork arrive stretched and ready to hang?

Yes. To ensure absolute safety during international transit, all artworks are shipped to the UK rolled in heavy-duty, climate-resistant tubes. This is the industry standard for art shipping.

We then manage premium, professional custom stretching in London as part of your purchase price—meaning your piece arrives fully ready to hang. Premium floating timber framing is available as an option to complete your acquisition; please select this paid addition at check-out if desired. All purchases include professional delivery within Greater London. For clients outside Greater London, we welcome you to arrange a courier service collecting from our London stretching and framing partner.

What kind of framing do you recommend?

If you wish to add custom float framing, we recommend a clean, architectural aesthetic that allows the raw texture and vibrant energy of your canvas to command the attention. Therefore, we recommend a sleek, slim, black timber float frame. Depending on your interior palette, a premium Wenge or Oak timber frame can also complement the piece. We strongly advise against white or coloured framing, as it distracts from the work's inherent power. (A reminder: standard professional stretch-framing is already included in your purchase).

How should I care for and position my painting?

Original acrylics on canvas should be hung away from direct, harsh sunlight (UV rays) and clear of high-moisture zones or intense heating vents. To clean the artwork, do not use any water, liquids, or chemicals. Simply dust the surface occasionally and lightly with a clean, dry, professional microfiber cloth or a soft feather duster.

3. Shipping, Logistics, and Insurance

Is the artwork insured during transit?

Yes. Every shipment is fully insured by the gallery for its complete commercial value from the moment it leaves Australia until it is securely delivered and signed for at your door. In the exceptionally rare event of transit damage, you are completely protected.

Who handles customs, duties, and VAT?

We do. All customs clearances, import duties, and VAT are fully managed by us and are completely included in your purchase price. We handle all necessary declaration paperwork to ensure a seamless arrival into the UK and to your door.

How long will it take to receive my artwork?

Delivery takes approximately 4 weeks. This comprehensive timeline includes preparing your item for export in Australia, premium international freight, professional stretch-framing upon arrival in London, and final hand-delivery to your door within Greater London. For orders destined outside Greater London, you are welcome to arrange your own courier service collecting from our London stretching and framing partner.

4. Visual Advisory

Can I see how a painting looks in my space before purchasing?

Absolutely. We offer a digital render service to help you visualise the scale, presence, and impact of a piece. Simply email us a high-resolution, straight-on photograph of your wall alongside the exact floor-to-ceiling OR wall-width dimensions, and our team will digitally scale and superimpose the artwork into your space.

Furthermore, when our team is not on-site in Australia sourcing new collections, we offer an exclusive, in-home consultancy service within London to help you select the perfect piece for your home. The fee is refundable against your purchase. Please contact us at enquiries@studioaustralis.co.uk to check availability and arrange an appointment.

5. Returns

What is your returns policy?

Because your artwork is custom stretch-framed to order upon arrival in London, it is classified as a bespoke item. Consequently, under UK consumer law, custom and bespoke goods are non-refundable. Therefore all sales are final, and returns are not permitted.

To ensure you are entirely confident in your acquisition, we are always happy to provide additional high-resolution images and videos upon request during the purchase process. Every piece is thoroughly inspected for quality prior to leaving Australia, and again at the time of framing in London. A reminder that as these are original works of art painted by human hand. As such, natural variations should be embraced as unique moments of beauty rather than defects.

6. Trade & Project Advisory

Do you offer a trade program for interior designers and architects?

Yes, we work extensively with industry professionals sourcing for high-end residential, multi-residential, hospitality and commercial projects. Registered architects and interior designers receive dedicated trade pricing, tailored curation proposals suited to specific needs, and priority preview access to premium acquisitions. Commissions for projects are also available. Please visit our trade portal, THE BRIEF, to register your studio's interest and share your active project requirements.