FAQs

About the Art

What is the difference between an original painting and a print?

An original painting is a one-of-a-kind work, hand-painted in oil on canvas by Maria. No two are alike. A print is a high-quality reproduction of an original, printed on archival cardstock or cotton rag paper. Prints let you bring the same image home at an accessible price point.

What does “limited edition” mean?

Limited edition prints are numbered (e.g., 7/50) and signed by Maria. Only the stated number of copies will ever be made. Each ships with a certificate of authenticity.

Can I commission a painting?

Yes — Maria accepts a limited number of commissions each season. Commissions are priced at 1.5× the equivalent original size. Please reach out via the Contact page with your vision, preferred dimensions, and timeline.

How do I care for an original oil painting?

Keep the painting away from direct sunlight and high humidity. Do not clean the surface with water or household cleaners. For framing, use UV-protective glass or acrylic. Oil paintings may take 6–12 months to fully cure — do not varnish before then.

Ocean Mail Club

What’s included in each envelope?

Every month you receive: one 4×6” art print (a reproduction of Maria’s featured painting that month), one real shell hand-collected from the beach on Nantucket, and one story card with the inspiration behind the painting.

When does my subscription ship?

Envelopes ship on the 1st of each month via USPS First Class Mail. Your first envelope ships within 2 weeks of subscribing.

Can I gift the Ocean Mail Club?

Yes. At checkout, enter the recipient’s shipping address. We’ll send the envelope directly to them each month. A gift note option is available at checkout.

Can I cancel my subscription?

Yes — cancel anytime, no commitments. Your subscription will not renew after the current billing cycle ends.

Ordering & Shipping

How long does shipping take?

Art prints ship within 2–3 business days. Original paintings ship within 3–5 business days. Ocean Mail Club envelopes ship on the 1st of each month.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes, we ship originals and prints internationally. Please contact us for international Ocean Mail Club shipping rates.

How are originals packaged?

Original paintings are wrapped in glassine paper, padded with foam corner protectors, and shipped in a custom art box. Every original is insured during transit.