This page gathers the support information collectors need most: availability, private viewing rooms, checkout, certificates, shipping, returns, accessibility, privacy, and how to reach the gallery.
How do I ask about an artwork?
Can I request a private viewing?
Can I place a work on hold?
What comes with the artwork?
Where can I find shipping and returns?
Who receives support requests?
Customer Support
Overview
At Emerald Thinker Gallery we believe that acquiring a work of art is a deeply personal journey, and our
support team is committed to making every step of that journey smooth. We know that each artwork we
offer has been chosen for its narrative depth and technical excellence , and we extend that same care to
our service. Whether you are looking for information about an available painting, have questions about
framing and shipping, or need guidance on commissioning a piece, our support team is ready to help. We
recognize that trust is at the core of collecting art , so our goal is to provide clear, timely answers and
keep you informed.
Support Channels
Phone and video consultations: We understand that sometimes a conversation is the quickest way
to solve a problem. Our art advisors are available by phone during standard business hours
(Monday–Friday, 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Pacific Time) and by appointment for video consultations. If you are
outside of these hours, you may leave a message and we will return your call within one business
day.
Email support: Email is ideal for sending reference images or detailed questions. We aim to respond
to all emails within 24 hours (excluding weekends and holidays). If your inquiry concerns shipping or
returns, please include your order number so we can locate your records quickly. As noted in the
shipping policy of Art by Shalimar, works may take 2–4 weeks for delivery . Including your order
details helps us provide timely updates.
Chat and social media: For quick questions—such as confirming the availability of a work, pricing
inquiries, or scheduling a studio visit—you can reach us via our website chat tool or direct message
us on our social channels. We monitor messages daily and will respond as soon as possible.
Response Philosophy
Art collecting is deeply personal, and our response philosophy reflects this. We aim to treat each inquiry
with respect and provide transparent information. If we cannot answer your question immediately (for
example, if we need to consult the artist or our framing partner), we will let you know when you can expect
a reply. Our support team is small and dedicated, similar to the team described on Art by Shalimar’s
shipping page , so we balance careful handling of artworks with prompt communication.
Educational Resources
As an educational gallery, we strive to empower collectors with knowledge. Our support staff can direct you
to resources on materials, mediums, archival care, and installation. They can also share the stories behind
each artwork and its creator; many of our artists work in figurative realism and narrative expression ,
and understanding those influences can enhance your collecting experience. We also publish journal
articles and interviews where artists discuss their process, influences, and the stories embedded in their
paintings.
Ordering Help
Should you need assistance placing an order, our support team can guide you through the process. They
can explain pricing, discuss available payment methods, and help with applying discount codes or gift
cards. If you are commissioning a custom work, they will outline the timeline and deposit schedule.
Transparency is important—your order won’t ship until you have approved the final quote, much like the
shipping quote process described by Art by Shalimar . If a piece requires custom crating or freight
shipping, we will clearly explain any additional costs.
After‐Purchase Assistance
Once you have purchased a work, our support continues. We provide updates on production and shipping,
including tracking information. Our packaging follows professional standards—works are wrapped,
corner‐guarded, and packed in reinforced cartons or custom crates for larger pieces . All shipments are
insured for the full purchase value . Upon delivery, please inspect the artwork. In the rare case that
something arrives damaged, notify us within 48 hours as advised by return policies so we can work with
the carrier to resolve the issue.
Commissioning & Installations
Our support team can facilitate commission inquiries, from matching you with an artist to discussing
concept sketches. Commissions require close collaboration, and we ensure you understand every stage. For
local collectors, we can arrange direct delivery and assist with installation guidance; our delivery team can
place artwork onto existing hardware but cannot drill into walls or install anchors, consistent with
professional practice . We recommend using a licensed installer or framer to prepare your space.
Feedback & Continuous Improvement
Your feedback helps us improve. We may follow up after your purchase to ask about your experience. If you
have suggestions for improving our service or website accessibility, please reach out. Our mission is to
honor art not just as decoration but as a way of thinking and seeing . Offering excellent support is part
of that mission.
Opportunities
Purpose
The Opportunities page outlines how Emerald Thinker Gallery builds long‐term relationships with artists,
curators, and collectors. As a gallery dedicated to emerging American painters working in narrative and
figurative styles , we seek to create an ecosystem where artists thrive and collectors discover work that
resonates with them over time. This page also details professional opportunities—employment, internships,
volunteer roles and partnerships—for those who share our mission.
Opportunities for Artist
We are always seeking new talent whose work embodies narrative depth, technical mastery, and emotional
resonance . Our open calls invite submissions from emerging painters working in figurative realism,
atmospheric landscapes, narrative expression, and symbolic contemporary art. Artists are selected based
on originality, craft, and long‐term potential, not on trends. If selected, you will be featured in our online
gallery, receive dedicated marketing support, and participate in curated exhibitions. Our aim is to foster
enduring relationships; we provide feedback on portfolios and offer guidance on career development.
Residencies & Commissions
We partner with regional studios to offer residency opportunities for emerging artists. These residencies
provide studio space, mentorship, and exhibition opportunities. Commission opportunities are available for
collectors interested in bespoke works. Our team facilitates introductions between clients and artists,
manages the commission timeline, and ensures that both parties are satisfied. Commissions are considered
final sale (unless otherwise agreed), consistent with common art gallery practices .
Employment & Internships
As our digital platform grows, we seek passionate individuals to join our team in roles such as gallery
assistance, marketing, curatorial research, and technology. We prioritize applicants who share our
commitment to ethical and inclusive practices. The Art Gallery of Mississauga emphasises values such as
respecting others, maintaining ethical standards, valuing diversity, and ensuring accessible spaces .
Likewise, Emerald Thinker embraces these values; we strive to maintain a healthy work‐life balance,
encourage innovation, and foster a diverse and inclusive work environment. Internships are available for
students and recent graduates interested in curatorial practice, art history, or digital marketing.
Volunteer & Docent Programme
Volunteers are vital to our community. Docents assist with virtual tours, educational outreach, and events.
You do not need prior gallery experience; we provide training that emphasises our mission and values. Our
volunteer programme reflects our commitment to accessibility and equity, similar to the Art Gallery of
Mississauga’s dedication to equity of access and diversity . We welcome volunteers from all backgrounds
and abilities.
Partnerships & Collaborations
Emerald Thinker fosters collaborations with cultural institutions, non‐profits, universities, and community
groups. We seek partners who support our mission to slow the conversation around art, emphasising
substance and craft over fleeting trends . If your organisation is interested in co‐curating exhibitions,
sponsoring artists, or hosting educational events, we encourage you to reach out. Partnerships enable us to
support more artists and reach new audiences.
Career Development Resources
In addition to opportunities within our gallery, we maintain a resource library with links to open calls,
residencies, grants, and art fairs. We encourage artists to explore external opportunities and will happily
provide letters of recommendation for past collaborators. Our commitment extends beyond the walls of our
gallery; we celebrate when our artists succeed on a national or international stage.
How to Apply
To apply for any opportunity—whether as an artist, intern, volunteer, or partner—please complete the
relevant form on our website. Provide a brief statement about your interest and attach required materials
(e.g., artist statement, résumé). We review submissions on a rolling basis. Due to the volume of inquiries,
please allow up to two weeks for a response. We appreciate your patience and your interest in building a
community where art has meaning and impact.
Our Mission
Guiding Principles
Emerald Thinker Gallery is a contemporary art gallery dedicated to discovering, supporting, and presenting
emerging American painters whose work carries narrative depth, technical excellence, and long‐term
cultural relevance . Our mission is to curate original contemporary paintings that reward thoughtful
looking and meaningful collecting . We focus on artists working in figurative realism, atmospheric
painting, narrative expression, and symbolic contemporary art —artists whose work reflects both
personal vision and the broader American experience . In an art world increasingly driven by trend
cycles and digital spectacle, we exist to slow the conversation down . We believe in art with substance,
craft with intention, and artists with something to say .
Celebrating American Contemporary Art
We represent a carefully selected group of contemporary American artists working primarily in oil painting,
mixed media, and traditional studio practices . Our curatorial approach prioritises narrative and
emotional resonance, technical mastery, a clear and evolving artistic voice, and long‐term relevance . By
focusing on emerging and early‐career painters, we aim to build lasting relationships between artists and
collectors—relationships grounded in trust, transparency, and shared values .
A Modern Online Gallery
Emerald Thinker operates as a modern online gallery designed to meet the needs of today’s artists and
collectors without sacrificing curatorial rigour . We combine traditional gallery values with a
contemporary digital platform to create an accessible, transparent space for discovering and acquiring fine
art . Every artist, artwork, and collection presented through Emerald Thinker is selected with intention
and care .
Commitments
We are committed to championing contemporary American painters; presenting original artworks with
clarity and context; building trust between artists and collectors; and elevating art that reflects thought,
imagination, and lived experience . At its core, Emerald Thinker exists to honor the idea that art is not
just decoration, but a way of thinking, seeing, and understanding the world . We also commit to values
similar to those expressed by the Art Gallery of Mississauga: conducting ourselves with the highest
professional and ethical standards, respecting others, valuing diversity, maintaining a healthy and inclusive
working environment, and ensuring accessible spaces . These values guide our interactions with artists,
collectors, staff, volunteers, and the broader community.
Educational Outreach
Our mission goes beyond sales. We seek to educate and inspire. Through journals, interviews, and online
workshops, we encourage audiences to engage deeply with art. We address themes that remain critical to
the multitude of identities that make up contemporary society—such as cultural heritage, identity, and
social sustainability . By integrating perspectives from different communities and acknowledging our
shared histories, we foster empathy and understanding. We believe that art can break down social barriers
and forge connections, echoing the belief of the Art Gallery of Mississauga that art has an important role in
addressing critical issues and forging connections .
Sustainability & Ethics
Our mission includes caring for the environment and practicing ethical business. We work with artists who
are conscious of their materials and processes. We minimise waste by producing limited runs, using
recyclable packaging, and partnering with carriers that offset carbon emissions. All works are shipped
professionally, using protective wrapping and reinforced cartons or custom crates . We ensure every
shipment is insured for its full purchase value and we encourage clients to handle works carefully and
to support sustainable framing and installation practices.
Looking Ahead
As we grow, we aim to expand our support for artists, increase our educational offerings, and develop new
digital tools that make art discovery more immersive. We will continue to champion art that rewards
thoughtful looking, maintain the integrity of our curation, and build community through conversations
around art. We invite you to be part of our mission—whether as an artist, a collector, a supporter, or an
observer—and to help us shape a future where art enriches and connects us all.
Shipping Policy
Processing & Delivery Times
Our artworks are created with care and are often made to order. Most original artworks ship free within the
United States, and because each piece is handled by our small, dedicated team, we ask that you allow 2–
4 weeks for delivery . For special commissions or framed pieces, additional processing time may be
required. We will provide an estimated timeline when your order is confirmed.
Shipping Quotes & Methods
For pieces where free shipping is not available, shipping costs are calculated based on final dimensions
(including frame), total packaged weight, destination, and packaging requirements . You will always
receive a shipping quote for your approval before anything is dispatched . We use the safest and mostappropriate carrier for each piece: UPS or FedEx for standard pieces and specialised carriers for large works
over 45 × 45 inches . If a piece requires freight or custom crating, we will inform you in advance because
such services may incur higher costs due to crating, freight handling, and insurance requirements .
Packaging & Insurance
Every artwork leaves our studio professionally packaged with protective wrapping, corner guards, and
reinforced cartons . Large‐scale pieces are custom crated for maximum protection . All shipped
artwork is insured for the full purchase value during transit . Please inspect your piece upon arrival and
notify us within 48 hours if any concerns arise . Document any damage to packaging or artwork with
photographs so we can work with the carrier to resolve the issue promptly.
Delivery Options
We offer direct delivery within 140 miles of our base. Standard delivery includes placing artwork onto
existing, properly installed hardware for a modest fee; our team cannot drill into walls or mount hardware
. Oversized pieces may require a specialty vehicle and carry an additional fee . We are happy to assist
with installation guidance or recommend professional installers. For national and international customers,
we use carriers that provide tracking numbers and signatures upon delivery. We will keep you updated on
the status of your shipment and provide an estimated arrival date once arrangements are finalised .
International Shipping
International shipping is available. Rates vary by destination and package specifications . Due to the
complexity of customs and import taxes, please contact us before purchasing so we can arrange a custom
quote. Buyers are responsible for any duties or taxes imposed by their country. We comply with all export
regulations and provide the necessary documentation for smooth customs clearance.
Holding and Combining Orders
If you purchase multiple artworks in a short time, we may be able to combine shipments to reduce
environmental impact and costs. Please contact us after placing your orders. We can hold a piece for up to
10 days for combining shipments. Combined orders will be packaged securely and insured individually.
Shipping rates will be adjusted accordingly.
Lost or Delayed Shipments
We do our best to ensure safe and timely delivery, but occasionally delays occur due to carrier issues or
extreme weather. If your tracking information shows no movement for more than five days or indicates that
the package has been lost, please contact us so we can open an investigation. Rest assured that all
shipments are insured and we will work with the carrier to resolve any issues.
Environment & Sustainability
We aim to reduce our carbon footprint by using recyclable materials where possible and choosing carriers
that offer carbon‐neutral options. We encourage clients to reuse packaging materials and to recycle responsibly. Shipping fine art is inherently resource‐intensive, but through careful planning and
partnerships we strive to mitigate impact.
Return Policy
Our Commitment to Collectors
We want you to feel proud and connected to the work you bring home . Because original art is unique
and created with intention, sales of original artworks are generally final . However, we recognise that
sometimes a piece may not be the perfect fit. To ensure that you feel confident in your investment, we offer
exchanges or gallery credit within 14 days of delivery .
Eligibility for Exchange or Gallery Credit
To be eligible for an exchange or gallery credit, the artwork must be returned in its original condition and
original packaging, provided the packaging is undamaged . The collector is responsible for all return
shipping, insurance, and handling costs . Gallery credit is valid for 12 months from the date issued .
Exchanges are subject to availability and may require additional payment if the selected replacement piece
has a higher value.
Commissions & Custom Work
Commissioned pieces are created specifically for each collector and are considered final sale . In the rare
event that a finished commission isn’t the right fit, the amount paid may be applied as gallery credit toward
any available original work . As commissions require significant time and collaboration, please carefully
review concept sketches and provide feedback at each stage to ensure the final piece aligns with your
vision.
Damaged or Incorrect Items
If your artwork arrives damaged, please notify us within 48 hours of delivery with photographs of both
the packaging and the artwork. We will work directly with the shipping carrier to resolve the issue promptly
. If we ship the wrong item, contact us immediately and we will provide instructions for returning the
incorrect piece at our expense and arrange shipment of the correct item. We take responsibility for any
errors on our end.
Return Procedure
Contact us: Email us within 14 days of receiving the artwork to request an exchange or gallery
credit. Include your order number, reason for the return, and photographs if applicable.
Return authorisation: We will provide a return authorisation number and confirm packaging and
shipping instructions.
Packaging: Repack the artwork in its original packaging. If the original packaging was damaged in
transit, please let us know so we can send replacement materials.
Shipping & insurance: Ship the artwork using a trackable service and purchase insurance for the full
purchase value. Send us the tracking information.
Inspection & credit issuance
Once the artwork is received and inspected, we will issue gallery
credit or process an exchange. If there are signs of damage beyond normal wear, we reserve the
right to decline the return.
Non‐Returnable Items
Gift cards, digital downloads, and one‐of‐a‐kind sculptures created in collaboration with the artist are
non‐returnable. Custom framing and installation services are also non‐refundable. These items involve
specific customisation and cannot be resold. We encourage you to review all details before placing orders
for such services.
Refunds
Emerald Thinker does not provide cash refunds except where required by law. Gallery credit allows you to
choose another work within 12 months. If a return is due to our error or a damaged piece, we will either
repair or replace the item at no cost to you or issue a full refund.
Contact
Questions? Our team is here to help. We are a small, dedicated group and are happy to answer any
questions about our return process .
Privacy Policy
Introduction
Emerald Thinker Gallery respects your privacy and is committed to protecting your personal information.
This policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard information when you visit our website, purchase
artwork, or interact with us. It is designed to comply with applicable data protection laws and to provide
transparency about our practices.
Personal Information We Collect
We collect information that can identify you (“personally identifiable information” or PII) when you place an
order, register an account, subscribe to our newsletter, or provide feedback . This information may
include your name, email address, mailing address, phone number, and payment details . We collect this
information to help us personalise your experience, process transactions, and respond to customer service
requests . We also gather information when you provide feedback or participate in surveys .
We may use your information in the following ways:
To personalise your experience and deliver content and product offerings in which you are most
interested .
To improve our website based on the information and feedback we receive .
To allow us to better service you in responding to your customer service requests .
To administer contests, promotions, surveys, or other site features .
To quickly process your transactions .
To ask for ratings and reviews of services or products .
Protection of Your Information
Our website is scanned regularly for security holes and known vulnerabilities to make your visit as safe as
possible . Personal information is contained behind secured networks and is only accessible by a limited
number of persons who have special access rights and are required to keep the information confidential
. All sensitive/credit information you supply is encrypted via Secure Socket Layer (SSL) technology .
All transactions are processed through a gateway provider and are not stored or processed on our servers
Cookies & Tracking
We use cookies to enhance your experience and gather aggregate data about site traffic and interactions.
You can choose to have your computer warn you each time a cookie is being sent or turn off all cookies via
your browser settings . If you turn cookies off, some features may not function properly. We do not use
cookies for third‐party advertising or allow third‐party behavioral tracking . We do not sell, trade, or
otherwise transfer your personally identifiable information to outside parties .
Third‐Party Disclosure & Links
We may share your data with third‐party vendors, service providers, contractors, or agents who perform
services on our behalf (e.g., payment processing, shipping). These parties have access only to the
information needed to perform their functions and must keep it confidential. We do not include or offer
third‐party products or services on our website .
California Online Privacy Protection Act (CalOPPA)
We comply with CalOPPA, which requires commercial websites to post a privacy policy and disclose what
information is being collected and how it is used . Users can visit our site anonymously and can change
personal information by emailing us . We will notify users of any privacy policy changes via email .
Data Breaches & Redress
In the unlikely event of a data breach, we will notify affected users via email and in‐site notifications within
one business day . We adhere to the Individual Redress Principle, which grants individuals the right to
pursue legal rights against data collectors and processors who fail to adhere to the law .
Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)
We do not specifically market to children under the age of 13 . Our site and services are intended for
adults. If we learn that we have collected personal information from a child under 13 without parental
consent, we will delete that information immediately.
Consent
By using our site, you consent to our privacy policy. If you do not agree to this policy, please do not use our
site. Continued use following the posting of changes to these terms means that you accept those changes.
Contact
If you have any questions about this privacy policy, please contact us. We value your privacy and are
committed to safeguarding your information.
Terms of Service
Introduction
These Terms of Service (“Terms”) govern your use of Emerald Thinker Gallery’s website, its subdomains, and
any related applications (collectively, “the Sites”). By accessing or using the Sites, you agree to be bound by
these Terms. Please read them carefully. Emerald Thinker reserves the right to modify these Terms at any
time, and such modifications shall be effective immediately upon posting. Users are encouraged to review
the Terms periodically .
Proprietary Rights & Trademarks
All text, images, trademarks, data, audio files, video files, software, and other content on the Sites
(collectively, “Materials”) are proprietary to Emerald Thinker or its licensors unless otherwise noted . You
may not use any trademarks displayed on the Sites without the express written permission of
Emerald Thinker or the third‐party owners . You may not remove any copyright, trademark, or other
proprietary notices from the Materials .
Authorized Use
Materials are provided for your personal, noncommercial use only. You may download, print, or otherwise
use Materials for non‐commercial, educational, or personal purposes, provided you cite the author and
source as you would material from any work . Downloading, printing, copying, distributing, or otherwise
using Materials for commercial purposes is expressly prohibited . All rights not expressly granted herein
are reserved .
User Responsibility & Security
If you create an account on our Sites, you agree to maintain the confidentiality of your login credentials and
restrict access to your personal computer and mobile devices . You agree to use the Sites for lawful
purposes only and will not participate in any action that could compromise the security or integrity of the
Sites . You agree not to post or transmit any unlawful, threatening, infringing, or offensive material .
Emerald Thinker reserves the right, but not the obligation, to monitor, edit, or remove any user‐generated
content for any reason and to terminate access for repeat infringers .
User‐Generated Content
By posting content on our Sites (including comments, reviews, or uploaded artwork), you grant
Emerald Thinker a non‐exclusive, royalty‐free license to use, reproduce, modify, publish, and distribute that
content in any medium. You represent that you have all necessary rights to post the content and that it
does not infringe on any third party’s rights . You agree to refrain from posting content that is abusive,
defamatory, obscene, or advocates a political cause .
External Links & Third‐Party Content
Our Sites may contain links to external websites. These links are provided for your convenience and do not
constitute an endorsement. Emerald Thinker has no control over the content of external sites and is not
responsible for their content or accuracy. Use of any linked website is at the user’s own risk.
Warranty Disclaimer
The Sites and all Materials are provided “as is” without warranty of any kind, either express or implied.
Emerald Thinker does not warrant that the Sites will be uninterrupted or error‐free or that use of the Sites
will not infringe the rights of third parties . Emerald Thinker assumes no responsibility for any errors or
omissions in the Materials.
Limitation of Liability
In no event shall Emerald Thinker, its directors, employees, or agents be liable for any indirect, incidental,
special, consequential, or punitive damages arising out of or relating to the use of the Sites. The total
liability of Emerald Thinker for any claim arising out of or related to these Terms shall not exceed the
amount paid by you, if any, for accessing the Sites.
Governing Law & Jurisdiction
These Terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of California
without regard to its conflict of laws principles. Any dispute arising under these Terms shall be resolved
exclusively by the state or federal courts located in California.
Termination
Emerald Thinker reserves the right to terminate your access to the Sites at any time, without notice, for
conduct that violates these Terms or is otherwise harmful to other users or to Emerald Thinker. The
provisions regarding proprietary rights, warranty disclaimer, limitation of liability, and governing law shall
survive any termination.
Collector Support Paths
For collector support, use these paths to review current works, request gallery follow-up, check acquisition steps, and review provenance documentation.