A limited, intimate experience — created just for you.
Commission an Original Work
Commissioning a piece is one of the most personal ways to collect original art. Each work is built from a collaborative conversation, executed in Shalimar's signature style, and finished with museum-quality materials designed to last a lifetime.
Availability & Investment
Priority consideration is given to established collectors. All commission requests are subject to approval at the artist's sole discretion. Your place in the commission calendar is confirmed upon receipt of deposit.
Timeline
Commission timelines range from 12–24 weeks, depending on placement in the current calendar, scale of the piece, and studio schedule. Larger works may require additional time for layering, drying, curing, and finishing.
Quality and longevity are always prioritized over speed.
Creative Process & Artistic Integrity
Collectors are warmly encouraged to share inspiration images, preferred color palettes, spatial dimensions, and overall mood direction. This guides the work — but final composition, texture, and artistic interpretation remain entirely at the artist's discretion.
There are no revisions.
Each piece is executed as a finished original in alignment with the agreed-upon vision and Shalimar's established body of work. Commissioning a piece means trusting the artist's expertise and creative direction — and that trust is something she takes seriously.
Deposit & Payment
- 50% non-refundable deposit required to secure your commission and reserve your place in the production calendar
- Remaining 50% due upon completion, prior to delivery or shipment
- Artwork will not be released until the final balance is received
The deposit covers consultation, design planning, materials sourcing, and studio preparation.
Collector Satisfaction
In the rare event that a completed commission doesn't feel aligned, all payments made may be applied as studio credit toward any available original work. Your investment stays with the gallery — and finds its way to a piece that truly resonates.
Shipping & Delivery
Shipping and delivery are not included in commission pricing. A custom quote will be provided based on size, weight, insurance value, and destination — always before final payment is due. All works are professionally packaged and fully insured in transit.
Ready to Begin?
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Art by Shalimar located and what are the gallery hours?
Art by Shalimar is a contemporary oil painting studio and gallery located at 121-B E. Chatham Street in Downtown Cary, North Carolina. Walk-ins are always welcome during open hours, or you can book a private appointment through our website.
Current gallery hours:
- Wednesday & Friday: 6 PM – 8 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM – 2 PM and 5 PM – 8 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 3 PM
Hours are updated weekly on Google — check there for the most current schedule, or call us at 919-213-0440.
How much do Shalimar's original oil paintings cost?
Original artwork is priced at approximately $2.50–$3.50 per square inch, reflecting the scale, complexity, and materials of each piece. Pricing is reviewed annually as the artist's body of work and collector demand continues to grow.
Does Art by Shalimar offer free shipping?
Yes — most original artworks on our website ship free within the United States. Please allow 2–4 weeks for delivery as each piece is carefully handled and packed by our small team.
For pieces where free shipping isn't listed, costs are calculated based on final dimensions (including frame), packaged weight, destination, and packaging requirements. You'll always receive a shipping quote for approval before anything is dispatched.
Shipping carriers:
- Standard pieces: UPS or FedEx
- Large pieces over 45" × 45": Navis Pack & Ship specialists
International shipping is available. Rates vary by destination and package specifications — contact us at 919-213-0440 or info@artbyshalimar.com for a custom quote.
For complete details, visit our Shipping Policy page.
What is the return and exchange policy for original artwork?
All original artwork sales are final. That said, we want every collector to feel confident in their purchase.
- Exchanges or gallery credit may be requested within 14 days of receipt, provided the piece is in its original condition and packaging
- Commissioned works are final sale, though gallery credit may be considered if the piece isn't the right fit
- Damaged on arrival? Please notify us within 48 hours with photos and we'll work toward a resolution promptly
For full details, visit our Return & Exchange Policy page.
How does the commission process work?
Shalimar accepts a limited number of commissions each year — no more than 10 — to ensure every piece receives her full attention and care.
- Pricing: based on size at a per square inch rate, with a custom quote after your consultation.
- Timeline: 12–24 weeks depending on complexity and studio schedule
- Deposit: 50% non-refundable deposit required to secure your commission
- Balance: Remaining 50% due upon completion
To inquire about a commission, reach out to us.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, personal checks, all major credit cards, and Affirm for flexible financing options. Affirm allows qualified buyers to split purchases into manageable payments — making it easier to invest in original art.
Does Art by Shalimar host exhibitions or events?
Yes — we host at least one major exhibition each fall, along with smaller events and gallery openings throughout the year. Our studio and gallery space in Downtown Cary is also available for private event rentals.
Follow us on Instagram @artbyshalimar or join our email list to be the first to hear about upcoming events.
How do I care for an original oil painting?
Each painting leaves the studio finished with a protective varnish. Here's how to keep it looking its best for years to come:
- Dusting: Gently wipe with a dry microfiber cloth — no water, no sprays
- Curing time: Oil paintings can take up to 12 months to fully cure. Avoid placing anything directly on the surface during this period
- Sunlight: Keep artwork away from direct sunlight and high-UV areas to preserve color and vibrancy long-term
- Framing: Highly recommended — framing protects the edges and prevents the canvas and wood from warping over time
How can I contact Art by Shalimar?
We're a small, dedicated team and we genuinely love hearing from collectors and art enthusiasts.
- Phone: 919-213-0440
- Email: info@artbyshalimar.com
- Visit: 121-B E. Chatham St, Downtown Cary, NC
We'd Love to Hear From You
Whether you're interested in an available work, thinking about a commission, or simply want to visit the gallery — reach out and we'll get back to you personally. We're a small, dedicated team and no question is too big or too small. Shalimar's studio is built on connection, and that starts here.