Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Artwork
Are these original paintings?
Yes — every piece in my shop is a one-of-a-kind, original oil painting. No prints, no reproductions. When you purchase a painting, you own the only one in existence.
Do the paintings come with a certificate of authenticity?
Yes. Each painting is signed and dated on the reverse, serving as your certificate of authenticity.
What medium do you use?
I work in oil on canvas. My paintings feature rich, layered paint application that creates texture, depth, and movement — qualities that photographs don't fully capture.
Can I commission a custom painting?
I do accept a limited number of commissions. Please reach out at laurie@laurierubell.com or call 804-543-6351 to discuss your vision, size, and timeline.
Framing & Display
Do the paintings come framed?
All paintings are sold unframed, which gives you the freedom to choose a frame that suits your space. That said, most collectors hang them as-is — these are large-scale works that make a strong statement on their own. I'm happy to offer framing suggestions if you'd like.
How should I hang and care for my painting?
Hang your painting away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Dust lightly with a soft, dry cloth if needed. Avoid cleaning with water or solvents. Oil paintings are durable and, with basic care, will last for generations.
Shipping
How is the painting shipped?
Paintings are carefully packed and shipped by a private, professional art handler to ensure your artwork arrives safely and in perfect condition.
Is shipping free?
Yes — shipping within the contiguous United States (lower 48 states) is free. You're also welcome to pick up your painting at my studio in Glen Allen, VA — just contact me to arrange a time.
Do you ship to Alaska, Hawaii, or internationally?
Yes, but shipping costs for Alaska, Hawaii, Canada, and all other international destinations are not calculated at checkout. After your order is placed, I'll research the best courier rates for your location and send you a quote. Shipping is charged separately at cost — no markup. Contact me at laurie@laurierubell.com or 804-543-6351 with any questions before ordering.
Is the painting insured during shipping?
Please contact me directly to discuss insurance options for your shipment. I strongly recommend insurance for higher-value works and am happy to arrange it.
Returns & Refunds
What is your return policy?
Returns are accepted within 7 days of purchase. Because of the complexity of shipping large-scale original artwork, return shipping costs are the buyer's responsibility. I encourage potential buyers to visit my studio before purchasing, or to request a video walkthrough of any painting — I'm always happy to share more.
Who pays for return shipping?
Return shipping costs are the buyer's responsibility and are non-refundable. If you receive a refund, the cost of return shipping will be deducted from your refund.
What if my painting arrives damaged?
Please contact me immediately at laurie@laurierubell.com if your painting arrives damaged or defective. I use a professional art handler and take every precaution, but if something goes wrong I will make it right.
How are refunds processed?
Once I receive and inspect the returned painting, I'll notify you by email. If approved, your refund will be applied to your original payment method within a few business days.
Visiting the Studio
Can I visit your studio to see the work in person?
Absolutely — I love meeting collectors in person. Studio visits are available by appointment at my studio in Glen Allen, Virginia. Reach out at laurie@laurierubell.com or 804-543-6351 to schedule a visit.
Still Have Questions?
I'm always happy to help. Email me at laurie@laurierubell.com or call 804-543-6351.
Are your paintings made in a factory, are they made by a machine?
My paintings are handmade in my studio. I have 0 Assistants. My paintings are hand-stretched (Not store-bought pre-assembled Canvases.) On double-thick wood Stretchers, Oil on canvas.
You paint in Oil Paint only. Why not use Acrylic paint?
Oil paint has Depth of color which enhances luminosity.It is also slow drying as you can add colors on the surface and into the surface of other colors,creating depth of color.Some colors are naturally transparent,some opaque,creating areas of Matte and areas of gloss in a painting.
Are Oil Paintings perfect in tone, depth of color and size?
The beauty of handmade oil paintings is that they are not perfect in tone, depth of color or size. Oil colors are of various different properties, some are transparent,some Opaque. Some areas will appear glossy, some matte. This allows me to paint and present colors in an artistic manner reflective of my unique style.
Why don’t you sign you paintings on the front?
I always find a Signature on the front to be a distraction from the painting. My paintings are Signed and dated on the back, often called reverse.
Can your paintings fit in a box, are they easy to ship?
My handmade large-scale paintings need to be shipped via truck or Crated. They can also be picked up at my studio. Local delivery is possible, please e-mail for more info.