Frequently Asked Questions
Step behind the veil of the Tabernacle of Memories. Here, you’ll find answers about Wim van Zyl’s fine art prints, archival materials, and framing. From giclée printing to packaging and display, this guide ensures your artwork arrives safely and can be cherished for years to come.
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Printing & Paper
What paper do you use?
All prints are produced on Hahnemühle Photorag Ultrasmooth, 305gsm, a museum-grade fine art paper trusted worldwide by artists, collectors, and galleries.
Why is this paper special?
- 100% cotton, smooth surface
- Acid- and lignin-free
- Archival quality (meets museum conservation standards)
- Exceptional detail reproduction with rich blacks and vibrant colour
What printing method is used?
We use the giclée fine art printing process with pigment-based inks. This method ensures high-resolution detail, colour accuracy, and archival stability. When properly cared for, your print will last for generations without fading.
What sizes are available?
Prints are available in custom sizes that resemble standard A-format dimensions:
- A2 (420 x 594 mm)
- A1 (594 x 841 mm)
- A0 (841 x 1189 mm)
Each size is carefully cropped and adjusted to maintain the integrity and composition of the artwork.
Can I handle my unframed print
We strongly advise against personally unpacking or handling unframed prints, as fine art prints are extremely delicate and can be easily damaged. Whenever possible, we recommend sending the print directly to your nearest professional framer to ensure its safety and proper handling.
Artwork Details
Will my print be signed?
Yes, all prints are hand-signed by Wim van Zyl.
Does my artwork come with a Certificate of Authenticity?
Yes, each print is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, verifying its edition and archival quality.
What edition number will I receive?
You will receive the next available number in the series, based on the limited edition run. Edition sizes are listed on each product page.
Framing Recommendations
Each artwork by Wim van Zyl is printed to the highest archival standards, ready for professional framing once received. While framing is not offered directly through the website, we encourage collectors to work with a trusted framer who understands fine-art giclée prints and conservation materials.
Recommended Framing Approach
Choose natural wood frames, finished in black, to complement the tone and character of the artwork. Simple, well-crafted frames tend to enhance rather than compete with the image.
Opt for museum-grade glazing such as AR70 or AR92 Anti-Reflective Museum Glass or equivalent. These options provide:
- UV protection to prevent fading and preserve colour
- Exceptional optical clarity for true viewing fidelity
- Significantly reduced reflections for optimal presentation
Handling and Delivery
All prints are shipped unframed, rolled in tissue with a 20 mm handling border to protect the edges. Fine-art giclée prints are delicate and can easily be marked or creased if handled incorrectly.
- Whenever possible, send the print directly to your chosen framer to avoid unnecessary unpacking.
- If handling yourself, only touch the white border area and ensure hands are clean and dry.
- Your framer should use archival, acid-free mounting materials and avoid adhesives that contact the printed surface.
Packaging & Shipping
How are unframed prints packaged?
Unframed prints are:
- Rolled in acid-free tissue paper
- Shipped in sturdy protective tubes
- Supplied with a 20mm handling border around the print image area. This allows safe handling and assists framers. The border is removed by default during framing.
What are the shipping timelines?
- Unframed prints: 7 working days
Payment & Orders
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major South African debit/credit cards and EFT. For international clients, we also process card payments via Shopify’s secure checkout.
Can I return a print?
Due to the custom nature of fine art printing and framing, returns are not accepted unless the artwork arrives damaged. If this happens, please contact us immediately with photos of the damage. Please be sure to include photos of the packaging condition upon arrival.
Care & Handling
How should I handle my print?
Only handle your print using the supplied handling borders. Avoid touching the image area directly, as oils from skin can cause damage.
How long will my print last?
With proper care, your print will remain vibrant and stable for generations.
Where should I display my artwork?
- Keep out of direct sunlight.
- Avoid high humidity areas (bathrooms, kitchens).
Damages, Defects & Returns
Do you accept returns or refunds?
We only accept returns or offer refunds if your order arrives damaged in transit or shows a defect upon arrival. Because each piece is made to order, we cannot accept returns for any other reason.
What should I do if my order arrives damaged or defective?
Please contact us within 7 days of receiving your parcel and include clear photos of:
- The damage to the product
- The packaging and parcel condition
This helps us assess the issue and resolve it quickly.
Will I get a replacement or a refund?
Once we’ve reviewed the photos and confirmed the issue, we’ll guide you through the next steps. In most cases, we’ll either replace the item or process a refund.
What if I change my mind after ordering?
Unfortunately, because our prints and frames are made to order, we cannot offer cancellations or refunds for change of mind.
Commission Enquiries
Can I commission a custom artwork?
Yes — Wim welcomes commissions. If you’d like to commission a piece, please reach out via the Contact page with details about your idea, preferred size, and any inspiration or references you’d like to share.
How do commissions work?
Once Wim has reviewed your request, he’ll get back to you with availability, timelines, and a quotation. A deposit is usually required before work can begin.
How long does a commission take?
Timelines vary depending on the scale and complexity of the piece. Wim will provide an estimated completion date once the project details are confirmed.
Can I make changes during the process?
Small adjustments can often be accommodated during the early stages, but major changes after work has begun may affect cost and delivery time.
How is shipping handled for commissions?
Commissioned works are treated with the utmost care and are considered extremely fragile. Each piece requires specialized crating, designed to protect the artwork during transit. Because of this, shipping cannot be set at a flat rate in advance — it will be quoted upon completion of the artwork, once dimensions, weight, and crating requirements are confirmed. The shipping cost will be communicated to you before dispatch, ensuring transparency and safe delivery of your commissioned work.
Can I collect my commissioned artwork instead of shipping it?
Yes — if you are based in or able to travel to the Western Cape region, you are welcome to arrange collection of your commissioned artwork directly. This option can be discussed during the commissioning process.