Guidelines

Image File Requirements

• File Format: JPG in RGB colour format (not CMYK)
• Resolution: Minimum of 1200 x 1500 pixels
• File Size: Less than 50MB

Uploading Multiple Images

Interested collectors often request additional images before purchasing an artwork online. After uploading your primary artwork image, you can add up to five (5) additional images. We highly recommend including:

• The artwork displayed on a wall
• Detail shots and close-ups
• Views of the edges and the back of the artwork

Lighting Tips

• Colour Balance and Exposure: Ensure accurate color representation by avoiding colour distortions caused by room color, lighting temperature, and flash. Strive for colours that closely resemble true whites.
• Harsh Shadows and Reflections: Use a light source that provides even lighting without creating distracting shadows or reflections.

Image Quality

• Noise and Compression: Use a low ISO (100-200) or shoot in sufficient light to minimize noise. Ensure your camera settings are at the highest quality and save the file at maximum quality.
• Focus and Motion Blur: Review images at 100% to select the best shot with proper focus. Sufficient lighting reduces the risk of camera shake during handheld shooting.
• Post-Production Over Filtering: While minor adjustments to color, brightness, or contrast can be beneficial, avoid heavy post-processing that misrepresents the artwork’s medium or quality. Over-processed files may be deactivated.

Additional Tips

• Upsampling: Increasing file size decreases quality. It does not improve print size but rather degrades the quality of the print.
• Intrusive Digital Signatures or Text: Avoid digital watermarks or in-camera date and time stamps as they can detract from the artwork’s perceived value.

Composition

• Parallel Angles/Rotation: Ensure the camera is parallel to the artwork when photographing. Rectangular or square artworks should have even edges.
• Borders and Padding: Crop excessive blank space, borders, mattes, and padding. Extra space will not meet minimum size requirements.
• Rotation: Ensure images are correctly oriented (90º-180º) for proper viewing.

How to Write an Artwork Description

Collectors appreciate knowing the story behind an artwork. Write clear and informative descriptions in simple English. Effective descriptions provide:

• Inspiration: What or who inspired the work?
• Viewer Impact: What emotions or thoughts do you hope to evoke?
• Artistic Choices: Why did you choose this medium, subject matter, or style?

Additionally, include practical details such as:

• Materials: Any extra materials used in the creation
• Surface Description: Physical texture and delicacy of the work
• Framing: Whether the artwork is framed or unframed, and the condition of the edges
• Hanging/Installation: Recommended procedures and whether hardware is included

Please write your text in English if possible, and always check spelling and grammar to ensure professionalism.

Packaging Your Artworks for Shipping

Proper packaging is crucial for safely shipping artwork. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your artwork arrives in perfect condition.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, secure the following packaging materials:

• Scissors
• Tape measure
• Gloves
• Painter’s tape or washi tape
• Packing paper
• Acid-free glassine paper
• Shrink-wrap/cling film
• Heavyweight plastic bag
• Packing tape (avoid duct tape, masking tape, or scotch tape)
• Bubble wrap (or eco-friendly alternatives)
• Foam boards
• Cardboard corner protectors
• Sturdy cardboard boxes or rigid mailers
• Paper tubes
• “Fragile” stickers

Step 2: Preliminary Preparations

Prepare your workspace and artwork before packaging:

• Sanitize Your Workspace: Clean your table with a cloth to remove dust and dirt. Pad the surface with protective material like cardboard.
• Measure the Artwork: Use a tape measure to determine the length, width, and height. Choose a box that provides at least 5 cm of clearance on all sides.
• Take Photos: Photograph your artwork from all angles to document its condition before shipment.

Step 3: Add Protective Packaging

Proper cushioning is essential to protect delicate artworks:

• Wrap the Artwork in Paper: Use archival-quality glassine paper or acid-free tissue paper. Cover all sides and edges, then secure with painter’s tape or washi tape. Place the wrapped artwork in a clear, sturdy plastic bag to protect against moisture.
• Wrap in Bubble Wrap or Cling Film: Wrap tightly with bubble wrap and secure with packing tape. Cut small slits in the back to allow airflow.
• Add Corner Protectors: Use cardboard or foam corner protectors to cushion the corners.
• Add Cardboard Padding: Double-pack your artwork by placing it in an internal cardboard box, then place this box into the shipping box for added protection.

Step 4: Package Your Artwork

Follow these steps to complete the packaging:

• Find an Appropriately Sized Box: Use an outer box or mailer slightly larger than your internal packaging.
• Place the Internal Packaging Inside: Ensure there is about 2 inches of space around the perimeter for cushioning.
• Fill Extra Space with Bubble Wrap: Use bubble wrap or packing peanuts to fill the space, absorbing shocks and preventing movement.

Step 5: Tape and Label Your Package

Finalize your package with the following steps:

• Tape the Box Shut: Use high-quality, moisture-resistant packing tape to seal all seams.
• Label Your Box: Mark the box with “FRAGILE” or “HANDLE WITH CARE” stickers or stamps.

Shipping Artwork with a Tube

For rolled artworks, follow these steps:

• Wrap with Glassine Paper: Cover all sides with glassine paper, ensuring it is 2-3 inches larger than the artwork on all sides.
• Roll the Artwork: Roll the paper-covered artwork around a smaller tube for support and secure with artist’s tape. Add a layer of protective wrapping like tissue paper.
• Seal and Insert into the Tube: Seal the wrapping and slide it into the shipping tube. Fill any extra space with bubble wrap or tissue paper, then seal the tube with packing tape and label it as “FRAGILE – DO NOT BEND.”

Shipping costs vary based on weight, dimensions, and distance. Consider using an online shipping calculator for accurate estimates.