FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Which paintings become prints?

I select a couple of new original paintings from my studio each year to become prints.

The prints are posted first for purchase on my shop and social media, and then the original painting is posted available for purchase after the prints are released.

I never make prints of a commissioned painting (unless the client request one or a small amount of prints made for family as gifts, but never without the clients request do I do this, and they will never be offered as prints for public sale).

Under the description of the original painting, it will say whether there are prints made of that image.  The prints are always smaller in size than the original painting. The high quality print on canvas is mounted on a wooden stretcher, and we attach a wire on the back, so it’s ready to hang as is, and doesn’t need to be framed.

There is always a limited stock in the studio, and higher stock available from my printing partner in Winnipeg, so the prints are usually shipped directly out from that location. If you're wanting to pick it up from my studio (Kenora, ON) then please text me first to make sure it is here.

What are the differences between Original Paintings and Prints?

Original Paintings are rich in translucent layered colours, thick texture and brushstrokes. Painted on Canvas that is mounted on a deep edge wooden stretcher, they are ready to hang as is, or could be framed if desired. 

Original Paintings hold and increase their value over time, making them a fantastic investment and heirloom. Originals are protected from fading and damage with an archival high quality UV protection varnish.  

Prints are smaller reproductions of an Original Painting, and capture the image and colour and even brushstrokes beautifully, but don’t have the texture of Original Paintings, because they are reproductions. They are also on canvas, mounted on a wooden stretcher in a similar fashion, ready to hang as is, similar to the original painting in that way. They work great to brighten up a space, whether it be office, cabin, or home, and are a great alternative to an original painting if budget is a factor in purchasing.  Prints are generally about 15% of the cost of what an Original Painting is.  They also make great gifts!

I want to commission a painting of the view from my cabin, what is the process to do that?

Whether it be a view from you home away from home, a favourite place on the lake or something that really spoke to you, a custom painting will capture that magic moment on canvas forever.  Perhaps you are looking for a special gift that is one of a kind.  A custom painting is perfect for that.  I can do a custom painting in any size, and with a photograph or series of photographs to be combined, or I can come out to your location and take photographs and sketches on site.  Not sure what size to get, or exactly what would compliment your room? No problem, I can come over, or we can chat/FaceTime to come up with the perfect idea and size for your space together.  Visit my page, “Custom Artwork” under Shop for more information, or give me a call at (807)407-3388.

Where can I view your Original paintings in person?

You can view original, fresh off the easel paintings right here in my studio. Email mel@melissajeanart.com or call/text (807)407-3388 to set up an appointment. I'm generally in the studios 10-5 and some evenings/weekends, but just reach out with what works for you, and I'll try to accommodate. (not too difficult as I live just down the hill from my studio)

You can also go to any of my representing galleries to view my paintings.  Have a look to see if there is one near you.  The inventory and displays are always changing, so have a look at the gallery pages to see what’s new.  

What is your process in creating art?

I love sharing my process with time lapse videos and photos in the studio, or in person if someone happens by... but this doesn't share the whole story. Art takes private reflection, and thought. It unfolds at its own pace. Some artists speed up the process using projectors and/or tracing methods, but I don’t. You'd be surprised how many artists also don't disclose this to their clients or galleries. It's easy to tell if you look closely.. the painting has the essence of a photograph in capturing the subject, but not the spirit of the place. I paint how a place makes me feel, as well as how it looks. How only I can interpret it, bringing emphasis on what moves me. This connection and process makes my art unique.

My process is about watching, observing, effusing myself in the environment that I want to paint, keeping an eye out, an open mind, and letting the painting find me. I sketch, I photograph, I feel. Above all, I feel a place. Then it unfolds in the studio. The idea is delicate, fragile, and requires privacy...me and the idea becoming something else.  That’s my process, and no judgement at all on anyone else’s… this is just what works for me.

I prefer this way to any time-savers and projectors because the skill that it takes to create a a painting, by observing, drawing, and painting free-hand is a valuable one that I have worked on for decades, and I don’t want to give up that valuable skill... it allows me to set up anywhere, anytime... to look at something and paint it on the spot, in my own voice/style. It's the personal interpretation of the artist that gives a painting life.That "looking, feeling and painting" makes my heart flutter every time, it's a tool that I've created and earned, more valuable than anything I could buy. I love my process. Sometimes it requires long periods of time to stew, ideas coming out on not one but many pieces. It's unpredictable and runs by its own schedule, but I'm not in a hurry, time doesn't matter... my goal is truth and quality, uninhibited. 

Where do you get your inspiration?

I've painted in many places across Canada and further out. I love the Canadian Wilderness, but my heart feels at home right here where I live and create... in Northwestern Ontario. This is my favourite place for inspiration, and I only wish I had another lifetime to get through all of the ideas I have because of it. I feel connected to the landscape and water here in the Lake of the Woods region of Ontario.

Water especially inspires me and time goes on without me while I lose myself in watching moving reflections. It captivates me every time, much like the flames of a campfire or the northern lights above. I have it all here, right outside my door. Most of my paintings are within less than 100 kms of my studio. Some are less than a km. I feel very fortunate to be in love with where I live, and in love with painting it.

In the summer I go out by boat or paddle board to various islands, painting and sketching on location, always happy to explore and find new islands. There's no shortage of inspiration all around me. Sometimes I take photos to look at while I'm painting when the water is long frozen and it summer seems so far away. Sometimes I paint by memory, and sometimes both. But my favourite is to paint immersed in the landscape I'm painting. To hear nothing but the flap of wings as pelicans come in for a landing on the water, or the quiet ripples touching the Canadian Shield shore. To feel the sand, dirt or rocks beneath my feet as I connect with nature. 

What does an Original painting cost?

Prices are determined by size. You can see the menu for my current price list under my main menu or under Custom Artwork towards the bottom of the page.  This is a condensed price list, so if there is a size you are looking for that is not on the menu, please contact me directly.  

( price list is subject to possible annual increases of approximately 2-5% every year, as explained on that price list)

How long does it take to receive a Canvas Art Print?

Canvas Art prints typically take 5 days to process, but can take up to 10 days depending on the time of year. From that point, all prints are shipped via courier (usually Purolator) and depending on the location could take between 1-6 days for shipping. If you're surprising a loved one with a print, just reach out to me and I can help you get an idea of when they would receive it. Also, you can tell me when it should arrive and I will make that happen for you as best as I can.

How long does it take to receive an Original Painting?

Original Paintings are sent out directly from my studio here in Keewatin, Ontario... usually the day after the order is received. Depending on the location, the courier could take 1-6 days to have it to your doorstep. We take great care to ensure Original Paintings are well wrapped and secure for their journey to your home, and have never had any issues with damage. If the delivery address is close by, I usually offer to deliver and sometimes hang it up myself. 

 

What happens if my print or painting becomes damaged or has any issues?

My Original Paintings are guaranteed for my life... meaning if you have any issues or accidents that have damaged your painting, please reach out to me and I'll do my best to fix it for you. My printing partner also stands by their work, so if there's a quality issue with any print, please let me know and I will try to get a replacement for you. In either case, please reach out to me if you have any concerns.