Where are the studios?
My studios are located in Santa Barbara, California and Washington, DC. Please call 805.452.2211 or email michele.zuzalek@gmail.com with any questions.
How do I buy a painting?
Write, call or use the contact form, naming the work you are interested in. I will confirm availability, price, framing options and shipping. International buyers: please email me before purchasing so that I can calculate your shipping cost.
Do you take commissions?
Yes — we are happy to do custom orders. A commissioned painting is not a reproduction of any original: it is an original, one-of-a-kind new painting, so shapes and hues will always differ slightly from any earlier work. Processing time for custom orders is normally 4–8 weeks.
What are the giclée prints?
Fine art prints are museum quality and signed by Michele Zuzalek, reproduced with professional giclée equipment using only the finest archival materials and inks. The paper is acid-free and extremely age-resistant. Frames are not included; they are shown for presentation only. Please contact me regarding availability of prints.
How is artwork shipped?
Wrapped canvas paintings are carefully packed in sturdy double-layered cardboard boxes. Large unmatted prints are rolled and shipped in sturdy tubes; small prints up to 12×12″ go in thick protective mailers. Orders are processed and shipped within 1–3 business days, and you will receive an email with tracking details. We ship with USPS and FedEx, which do not deliver to PO boxes, so please give a street address and a local phone number.
What if my piece arrives damaged?
If your piece is lost or damaged we offer a replacement or full refund, pending an insurance claim. Damage must be reported on the day of arrival: photograph the package and the painting that day and notify us and the carrier (USPS or FedEx) by email.
What is the return policy?
If you are unhappy with your piece, we offer a refund up to 7 days after receipt (including the day of arrival), provided the piece is returned undamaged with a registered tracking code. The buyer pays shipping and insurance, and a 30% restocking fee applies — waived if you choose a house credit towards an equal or greater purchase. Return customs, duties and fees are paid by the buyer, and a signature is required for returns. Custom orders and made-to-order works are not refundable.
Are the works signed?
All paintings and prints are original and hand-signed on the back by the artist, Michele Zuzalek.
Who owns the copyright?
All work is protected under copyright, including reproduction rights. The sale of an artwork does not transfer copyright: you own the artwork, not the copyrighted image. Artwork may not be published, copied or reproduced in any way without the artist’s written permission.
Will the colours match what I see on screen?
Not all monitors are the same, so colours may vary slightly from the actual work. Ask for more photos or a viewing if you would like to be sure.
Questions coming soon.