Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are considering your first original artwork, commissioning something for a particular space or developing a larger collection, these are some of the questions I am asked most often.

Collecting Original Art

Are all the artworks original?

Yes. Every artwork is an original created by me in my Cape Town studio. I do not produce prints or reproductions.

Why don’t you sell prints?

I believe the value of an artwork lies partly in its originality: the physical marks, material and decisions that belong only to that piece. For that reason, I have always chosen to offer original artworks rather than printed editions.

What materials do you work with?

My two-dimensional artworks are created using charcoal and PanPastel on fine art paper or specially prepared canvas. The material and surface are selected according to the character, scale and intended presentation of each work.

Is every artwork signed?

Yes. Every original artwork is signed ♡ Brett Field. The heart reflects the idea that each artwork is one of my love letters from Africa to the world.

Are the artworks shown online currently available?

The website is updated regularly, but availability can change quickly. Please contact me to confirm that a particular work is still available before making final arrangements.

How do I choose the right artwork for my space?

You are welcome to send photographs of the room, wall dimensions and any relevant interior references. I can help you consider scale, subject, placement and how the artwork will respond to the wider space.

Can I request additional photographs or videos?

Yes. Additional images, close-up details and video can be provided for available works, particularly when a collector is unable to visit the studio in person.

Can I buy an artwork as a gift?

Yes. Original art can be an exceptionally personal gift. I can help with the selection, presentation and delivery arrangements while keeping the purchase discreet where necessary.

Do you work with first-time collectors?

Absolutely. You do not need specialist knowledge to collect original art. The starting point is simply finding a work that creates a genuine connection and suits the space in which it will live.

Commissioning an Artwork

Do you accept commissions?

Yes. I accept a limited number of private, residential, hospitality and corporate commissions.

How does the commission process begin?

The process begins with a conversation about the subject, intended space, scale, mood and story behind the work. From there, we agree on the creative direction, dimensions, medium, framing requirements, timing and cost.

Can an artwork be commissioned for a specific wall?

Yes. Commissioned artworks can be developed around the dimensions and proportions of a particular wall or architectural setting. Considering the work early in the design process often creates a stronger relationship between the artwork and the room.

Can you create an artwork that responds to an interior palette?

Yes, although the artwork should feel connected to the interior rather than simply matched to it. I can work with fabric samples, material boards, paint references and Pantone colours to understand the wider design language of the space.

Can you work from photographs?

Photographic references can be used where appropriate, provided the images are clear and you have the right to use them. The finished artwork will be interpreted through my own visual language rather than copied as a photographic reproduction.

Can I commission a larger version of an existing artwork?

An existing work cannot be duplicated exactly because every artwork is original. A new piece can, however, be developed around a related subject, atmosphere or compositional idea.

Will I see the artwork while it is being created?

The concept and overall direction are agreed before work begins. Progress updates are not possible, this is to ensure the artwork develops naturally through the creative process.

How long does a commission take?

Timing depends on the size, complexity, medium, framing and current studio schedule. A clear lead time will be confirmed before the commission is accepted.

What are the payment terms for commissions?

A 50% deposit confirms the commission and secures the production schedule. The balance is payable before the completed artwork is delivered or shipped.

Can commissioned artwork be returned?

Because commissioned artworks are created specifically for the client and approved concept, they cannot be returned or exchanged.

Art for Home Interiors

Do you help private collectors select art for their homes?

Yes. I work directly with collectors to identify artworks that suit both their personal connection to the work and the character of the interior.

Should art match the interior?

Art does not need to match every colour or finish in a room. The strongest placements often create a relationship through mood, scale, contrast or narrative, allowing the artwork to contribute something distinct to the space.

When should art be considered during an interior project?

Ideally, art should be considered early enough to influence scale, lighting, furniture placement and the narrative of the room. It can still be introduced successfully into a completed interior, but early collaboration creates more possibilities.

Can you visit the space?

Site visits can be arranged in Cape Town and surrounding areas where appropriate. For projects elsewhere, photographs, drawings, elevations, measurements and digital meetings usually provide enough information to begin.

Can you help build a collection over time?

Yes. A collection does not need to be completed at once. I can help collectors establish a clear direction and add works gradually while maintaining a sense of connection across different rooms and subjects.

Interior Designers and Decorators

Do you work directly with interior designers?

Yes. I work closely with interior designers and decorators on private homes, hospitality environments and corporate projects.

At what stage should an interior designer involve you?

I can become involved during early concept development, once the design direction has been established, or when artwork is needed for a completed space. Earlier involvement allows the art to become part of the wider narrative rather than a final decorative layer.

Can you work from mood boards and design presentations?

Yes. Mood boards, renders, elevations, finishes, fabric samples and floor plans are all useful when considering subject, scale, palette and placement.

Can you source both individual works and larger collections?

Yes. I can assist with one statement artwork, a pair or series, or a cohesive collection across multiple rooms and spaces.

Can artwork be created to meet a project programme?

Yes. Clear lead times and delivery requirements are agreed at the start. My background in corporate property means I understand the importance of deadlines, approvals and installation schedules.

Do you provide specifications for project documentation?

Artwork dimensions, medium, framing, orientation and other relevant details can be supplied for schedules, procurement documents and installation planning.

Can you assist with presentation to the client?

Yes. Placement mock-ups, artwork information, scale recommendations and supporting narrative can be provided to help designers present the proposed work clearly.

Is framing included?

Framing requirements are discussed and quoted according to the work and project. This allows the frame profile, finish and presentation to respond to the interior rather than using one standard treatment for every space.

Hospitality Projects

Do you work with hotels, lodges and restaurants?

Yes. I work with hospitality groups, owners, developers, designers and procurement teams on individual artworks, commissioned pieces and larger collections.

Can the collection respond to the location of the property?

Yes. Place is often the strongest starting point for a hospitality collection. The surrounding landscape, people, wildlife, heritage and cultural context can be translated into a visual narrative that gives the property a stronger identity.

Can you develop art for different areas within one property?

Yes. A narrative can move through reception areas, restaurants, lounges, corridors, suites and guest rooms without every artwork needing to look the same. The aim is cohesion, not repetition.

Can you create different sizes within one collection?

Yes. A collection can include statement pieces, smaller supporting works, pairs and series. Scale is considered according to each space, viewing distance and the role the artwork needs to play.

Can you work with the project’s existing design concept?

Yes. The artwork can respond to the architecture, materials, interior palette, brand story and guest experience while still retaining its integrity as original art.

Can original artworks be created for multiple guest rooms?

This depends on the number of rooms, budget and project requirements. I do not reproduce original artworks as prints, but a collection of individual works or another suitable original-art approach can be considered.

Do you work on international hospitality projects?

Yes. Projects can be developed remotely using design documentation, digital meetings and visual presentations. Global shipping, specialist packaging and installation guidance can be arranged.

Offices and Corporate Spaces

Do you create art for offices and corporate environments?

Yes. I work with businesses, property developers, design teams and professional practices to place or commission artworks for reception areas, boardrooms, executive offices and shared spaces.

What can art bring to a workplace?

Art can give a workplace identity, warmth and a stronger sense of purpose. It can reflect the organisation’s values, location, history or people while creating an environment that feels considered rather than generic.

Can a commission reflect the company’s story?

Yes. The starting point might be the organisation’s history, industry, location, values or a specific theme. The intention is not to create corporate branding, but to translate the story into an artwork with lasting visual and emotional value.

Can you work with architects and corporate interior designers?

Yes. I can collaborate with architects, interior designers, project managers and procurement teams to ensure that scale, framing, placement, delivery and installation are properly coordinated.

Can artwork be supplied for more than one office?

Yes. A wider collection can be developed across several areas, floors or locations. Each space can have its own character while remaining connected to the broader narrative.

Can you provide formal quotations and supporting documentation?

Yes. Formal quotations, artwork specifications and relevant project information can be supplied for internal approval and procurement processes.

Sculpture

Are sculptures available to purchase?

Available sculptures will be shown on the website or can be viewed by appointment at my Cape Town studio. Please enquire to confirm availability.

Do you accept sculpture commissions?

A limited number of sculpture commissions are considered. Each project begins with a discussion around the subject, story, scale, material, intended setting and timeline.

Can a sculpture be created for a particular interior?

Yes. Scale, viewing angles, surrounding architecture, lighting and the relationship with nearby furniture or artworks can all be considered during development.

Can you advise on a plinth?

Yes. The dimensions, height and finish of the plinth should support the sculpture and relate to the interior. Guidance can be provided so that the work is presented at the correct height and with sufficient space around it.

Are the sculptures suitable for outdoor installation?

Suitability depends on the material, finish and environmental exposure of the individual sculpture. Outdoor placement should be discussed before purchase or commissioning so the correct production and installation requirements can be considered.

How are sculptures shipped?

Sculptures are professionally packed or crated according to their size, material and destination. The shipping method is planned individually to protect the work throughout transit.

Framing and Presentation

Are artworks supplied framed?

Some artworks are offered framed and others may be purchased unframed. The product information or quotation will confirm what is included.

How are works on fine art paper framed?

Works on paper are generally presented in a premium box frame behind non-reflective art glass. The framing protects the work while preserving its tonal depth and surface detail.

How are canvas artworks presented?

Canvas works are sealed and do not require glass. They can be displayed unframed or finished with a suitable outer frame, depending on the work and the interior.

Can I choose the frame?

Yes. Framing can be tailored to the artwork and design style. Where a project has specific timber, metal or colour requirements, these can be considered during sourcing.

Can an existing frame be changed?

In many cases, yes. The work and current framing will first need to be assessed to ensure that reframing can be completed safely.

Do you provide installation?

Professional installation can be arranged through trusted partners in Cape Town. For projects elsewhere, placement and installation guidance can be provided to the appointed installer.

How should an artwork be lit?

Good lighting should reveal the work without creating harsh glare or excessive heat. Adjustable, indirect or properly positioned picture lighting is generally preferable to strong light placed very close to the surface.

Caring for Your Artwork

How should I care for an original artwork?

Handle the artwork as little as possible and avoid touching the surface directly. Keep it away from excessive moisture, heat and prolonged direct sunlight.

Can charcoal artwork smudge?

The artworks are a created using a powdered pastel and are prepared and finished for display, overcoming the concerns associated with charcoal. It remains a sensitive fine-art medium so the surface should never be touched, rubbed or cleaned directly.

How should framed artwork be cleaned?

Clean only the outer frame and glazing using an appropriate soft cloth. Do not spray cleaning products directly onto the frame or glass, as moisture may enter the framing package.

Can artwork be displayed in a bathroom?

Bathrooms and other high-humidity spaces are generally not recommended for works on paper. Placement should be assessed carefully, particularly where steam, condensation or rapid temperature changes are present.

What should I do if the artwork is damaged?

Do not attempt to repair or clean the work yourself. Contact me with clear photographs so that the damage can be assessed and an appropriate professional conservator or framer can be recommended.

Shipping and Delivery

Do you ship throughout South Africa?

Yes. Delivery can be arranged throughout South Africa using an art handler or specialist transport service.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. Artworks are shipped worldwide. The packaging and shipping method will depend on the size, framing, material and destination.

How are artworks packaged?

Unframed works on paper may be carefully rolled and shipped in a protective tube where appropriate. Framed works, canvas artworks and sculptures are professionally protected and may require custom crating.

Can you arrange crating and fumigation?

Yes. Custom crating and fumigation documentation can be arranged when required by the destination or shipping method.

Are shipping costs included in the artwork price?

Shipping, packaging, crating, insurance, installation and any destination-specific requirements are quoted separately unless the listing or quotation states otherwise.

Are customs duties and taxes included?

Import duties, customs charges and local taxes are determined by the destination country and are generally payable by the recipient. Any known shipping requirements will be discussed before dispatch.

How long does international shipping take?

Transit times vary according to the destination, artwork size, packaging requirements, customs clearance and selected shipping service. An estimated timeline will be provided once the shipping details are confirmed.

Can an artwork be shipped unframed?

Yes. Shipping an artwork on paper unframed and rolled can be a practical option for international collectors. Framing guidance can then be provided for a trusted local framer.

Can you ship directly to my interior designer or installer?

Yes. Delivery can be coordinated directly with your designer, project manager, gallery, hotel, office or appointed installer.

Studio Visits and Viewings

Can I visit the studio?

Yes. Private studio visits are available by appointment in Tokai, Cape Town.

What can I see during a studio visit?

You can view available artworks and sculptures, see materials and framing options, and discuss commissions or placement within your space.

Do I need to know which artwork I want before visiting?

No. A studio visit can simply be an opportunity to experience the work in person and understand which subjects, sizes and pieces you respond to.

Can my interior designer attend the appointment?

Yes. Designers, architects and other project representatives are welcome to join the appointment.

Can we meet online?

Yes. Virtual consultations can be arranged for collectors and project teams outside Cape Town or South Africa.

How do I arrange a viewing or consultation?

Use the contact form on the website and include the artwork, commission or project you would like to discuss. For placement enquiries, it is helpful to include the location, approximate wall dimensions and any relevant photographs or design material.

Artworks for you

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