Thank you for visiting my studio. I want collecting art to feel thoughtful, transparent, and joyful. Below you’ll find answers about original oil paintings, fine art prints, driftwood and live edge artworks, shipping, and the Studio Archive.

If you need additional photos, scale guidance, or have any questions before purchasing, please reach out through the contact page.

I’m always happy to help you feel confident in your decision.

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Are all paintings original?

Yes. Every painting listed as an original is a one-of-a-kind oil painting created by Mara Szyp using professional-grade materials selected for longevity and depth of colour. No two original paintings are ever replicated.

A small selection of 8.5 x 11 fine art prints is occasionally available and will be clearly indicated on the individual product page.

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Are all wood works original?

Yes. Every driftwood and wood artwork is entirely hand-painted and individually created. Each piece begins with locally sourced Vancouver Island driftwood or natural wood and is transformed into a one-of-a-kind work of art.

Because of the organic nature of the wood, no two pieces are ever identical in shape, texture, or finish.

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Are wood artworks wall hangings?

Not all wood artworks are wall pieces.

Some driftwood works are designed to hang and include marine twine for display. Others are freestanding sculptural pieces, finished with refined wood bases or solid copper feet. Certain pieces may also be displayed on easels.

Each product page clearly indicates how the artwork is intended to be displayed.

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What is the Studio Archive?

The Studio Archive features earlier original oil paintings from a previous chapter of my artistic journey. These works are deeply loved but no longer reflect my current style direction.

They are offered at special pricing as my work continues to evolve. Each piece remains an authentic, original painting in excellent condition.

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Why are Studio Archive paintings offered at special pricing?

The pricing reflects artistic evolution, not quality. As my style develops, the Studio Archive allows these earlier works to find new homes where they can be appreciated and collected.

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Are artworks ready to hang?

Most original canvas paintings arrive professionally wired and ready to hang.

Sculptural Wood Driftwood artworks vary in presentation. Some include marine twine for hanging, while others are freestanding sculptural pieces with finished wood bases or copper feet.

Display details are always noted in the product description.

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Are driftwood pieces one-of-a-kind?

Yes. All driftwood wall art and sculptural wood pieces are created using locally sourced Vancouver Island driftwood. Each piece is shaped by the ocean and naturally unique in texture, tone, and form.

And locally and ethically sourced live edge slabs shaped by the rugged nature of our wonderful forests.

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Are all wood artworks driftwood?

No. Wood artworks include both locally sourced driftwood and live edge wood pieces. Driftwood works are shaped naturally by the ocean, while live edge artworks preserve the natural contour of cut wood slabs.

Each piece is individually hand-painted and one-of-a-kind.

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Are wood artworks sculptural?

Some wood pieces are freestanding sculptural works finished with refined wood bases or solid copper feet. Others are designed to hang or rest on easels.

Display details are always listed in the individual product description.

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Do you ship original artwork?

Yes. Original oil paintings on canvas and sculptural driftwood and live edge artworks are carefully packaged and shipped securely from Canada.

Freestanding wood sculptures are professionally wrapped to protect delicate elements such as copper feet or natural edges. Tracking information is provided once your order has been dispatched.

Shipping costs are calculated at checkout based on the size, weight, and destination of the artwork.

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Where do you ship?

I ship original oil paintings and wood artworks from Canada to collectors across:

• Canada

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Europe

• Australia

• New Zealand

If your country is not listed, please contact me for a custom shipping quote.

Please note that some countries — including Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and others — have strict regulations regarding natural wood entering customs. It is the buyer’s responsibility to research import regulations for wood products in their country prior to purchasing.

If additional documentation, treatment, or special preparation is required for a wood artwork to enter your country, those requests must be made before purchase and may involve additional costs.

Original canvas paintings generally move through customs without issue.

Any applicable customs duties, taxes, or import fees are the responsibility of the buyer.

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How long does it take to ship my order?

Processing times:

• Original oil paintings and wood artwork: approximately 3 business days

• Fine art prints: up to 3 weeks (some may ship sooner if in stock)

Delivery times vary depending on location and time of year and currier.

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Can I request expedited shipping?

If you need your artwork by a specific date, please reach out before purchasing and I will explore available expedited shipping options.

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Do you offer local pickup?

Yes. Local pickup in Victoria, British Columbia is available. In some cases, local delivery may also be arranged.

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Do you accept returns or exchanges?

Due to the original and one-of-a-kind nature of my artwork, all sales are final.

I encourage you to review dimensions, photos, and descriptions carefully before purchasing. If you have questions about scale, colour, or placement in your space, please contact me prior to checkout. I’m happy to provide additional details to help you make an informed decision.

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What if my artwork arrives damaged?

If your package arrives damaged during transit:

1. Photograph the exterior packaging before opening.

2. Document any visible damage to the artwork.

3. Contact me immediately so we can resolve the issue with the shipping carrier.

Damage in transit is handled separately from return policies.

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Is checkout secure?

Yes. This website uses secure checkout and SSL encryption to protect your personal and payment information.

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How do I care for my oil, acrylic, or mixed media paintings?

To preserve your original painting:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight

• Keep away from high humidity or extreme temperature changes

• Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth

In very luminous rooms, oil, acrylic, and mixed media paintings can be protected with a UV-resistant varnish. If additional protection is desired over time, the artwork can be re-varnished.

I recommend using a matte UV-protective spray to maintain the integrity of the surface. Before reapplying varnish, the painting should be gently cleaned to remove dust or residue. If you are unsure about the process, consulting a professional framer or art conservator is recommended.

With proper care, original paintings can last for generations.

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How do I care for my wood artwork?

Wood is a natural material and always contains some level of moisture. Because of this, it may gently respond to changes in temperature and humidity over time. Small cracks, subtle separations, or shifts in the grain can occur — this is not considered damage, but a natural characteristic of real wood.

To preserve your artwork:

• Keep it away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture

• Avoid placing it near heat sources such as fireplaces, heaters, or vents

• Maintain a stable indoor environment when possible

• Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth

• Do not use water, sprays, or chemical cleaners

Freestanding pieces with refined wood bases or solid copper feet should be placed on stable surfaces.

If a copper foot becomes loose due to handling or movement, it can be easily reattached. A small amount of appropriate adhesive can be used if necessary. These elements are designed to be secure but may loosen if frequently moved.

With proper care, your wood artwork will age naturally and beautifully over time.

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