Important facts about the business!
FAQ's
Sometimes you just need more detail. Here are some answers to questions you might have.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of prints do you sell?
Every work is a limited edition archival pigment print, hand-produced in studio by Steve Speer. Prints are made with Epson UltraChrome and carbon pigment inks on 100% cotton rag papers from German and French mould-made mills, or on traditional handmade Japanese Washi. We also offer metal leaf works on vellum, which are unique objects rather than reproductions in the conventional sense.
Are the prints archival?
Yes. The pigment inks and acid-free, lignin-free papers used are rated for 100+ years of display permanence under proper conditions (framed under UV-protective glazing, away from direct sunlight, stable humidity). Metal leaf works are printed on vellum and are sealed and finished for long-term display.
How are the editions structured?
Standard editions are limited to 15 prints plus 3 artist proofs across all sizes of a given image. Washi paper editions are limited to 7 prints plus artist proofs. Once an edition is closed, no further prints of that image are produced — at any size, on any paper.
Every print is signed, numbered, and ships with a Certificate of Authenticity recording the edition number, paper, dimensions, and date of production.
Will the print look exactly like what I see on screen?
Close, but not identical. Monitors emit light; prints reflect it. Black-and-white tonality, in particular, has a depth and subtlety on rag and Washi papers that a screen can only approximate. Each print is proofed by the artist before shipping to ensure tonality, contrast, and detail match the studio reference.
Why does the same image look different on rag vs. Washi?
The papers behave differently. 100% rag holds deep blacks and crisp edges with a smooth, neutral surface. Washi has a softer, more textural fibre that lends warmth and a tactile quality to the image. Both are intentional choices — the same image becomes a meaningfully different object on each substrate.
How long until my print ships?
Prints are made to order. Please allow approximately 2–3 weeks for production, proofing, and packaging before shipment. Larger sizes, Washi editions, and metal leaf works may require additional time; you'll be notified at the time of order if this applies. The studio ships throughout Canada, the United States, the UK, the EU, Australia, and most other regions. Currency and shipping rates adjust based on the country selected at checkout (default currency is CAD)
What if my print arrives damaged?
Every shipment is insured. If a package arrives damaged, photograph the outer packaging and the work before unpacking further, and contact the studio within 7 days of delivery. A replacement print from the edition will be issued at no cost.