FAQ – hand-painted images | Barbara Puto

I know that choosing a painting – especially online – sometimes raises questions and doubts. I have gathered answers to the questions I hear most often. If you don't find what you're looking for here – feel free to write to me. I will be happy to respond.

📩 painting@barbaraputo.pl

🖼️ Are all the paintings original?

Yes. Every work presented on the site has been hand-painted by me – using watercolors or acrylic paints. I do not sell reproductions.

📏 Can I order a painting in a different size?

For commissioned works – yes. Write to me, and we will agree on the theme, format, and mood of the painting that will be created especially for you.

🛒 How can I buy a painting?

You can find a detailed description of the purchasing process under the button"How to buy a painting". I encourage you to check it out – I explain step by step how the purchase process works.

🎁 Can I order a painting as a gift?

Of course. Upon request, I can prepare a painting as a gift – with a delicate note, packaging, and shipping without a receipt inside.

🖼️ Do you sell framed paintings?

As a rule, I sell watercolors and acrylics without frames. In special situations, I can take on framing, but we will need to agree on the details together. Please contact me if such a need arises.

✍️ Is the painting signed?

Yes. Each painting is signed by me – on the painting itself and on the back, depending on the composition.

📜 What does the certificate of authenticity look like?

At your request, I will include acertificate of authenticity – it contains the title of the work, date of creation, technique, format, and my signature. This is confirmation that the painting is original and made by me.

🔖 What is the purpose of the certificate of authenticity?

The certificate is a document confirming the origin and originality of the work. It is useful, for example, when giving the painting as a gift, for resale, or for insuring the work.

💧 How durable is watercolor?

Watercolor is a subtle technique, but very durable – provided it is properly protected. All my watercolors are painted on high-quality paper. I recommend framing with a mat and glass that protects against UV radiation. Their durability is estimated to be the same (or longer) than oil paintings, as long as they are protected from light, moisture, and pollution. The oldest watercolors are thousands of years old and date back to the Paleolithic era when scenes of hunting and daily life were painted in caves using natural pigments. Watercolors as an independent artistic medium began to develop from the Renaissance, and their popularity especially increased in the 18th century in Europe. In Poland, watercolors have been known since the times of manuscript illumination, and the oldest Polish watercolor manufacturer is the Karmański company, founded in 1894.

🎨 Can I order a watercolor painting as an acrylic?

Yes, it is possible to create a version of a watercolor painting in acrylic technique. The final effect will differ due to the different properties of the paints, but the mood of the work can be preserved. Therefore, it is important to relate this question to a specific painting. Write to me – we will agree on the details together.

❓ What is a cycle of paintings?

A cycle of paintings is a series of artistic works connected by a common theme, style, or mood. Each painting stands as an independent work, but together they create a coherent narrative – in the case of my paintings, for example, about nature, light, silence, and emotions. The cycle allows the viewer to dive deeper into the author's world and trace the development of ideas or moods across several works.

💬 Is there a discount for purchasing several paintings from the cycle?

Yes – when purchasing two or more paintings from the same cycle, individual pricing conditions may apply. I encourage you to contact me via email:malarstwo@barbaraputo.pl – I will be happy to prepare a discount proposal and a shipping package tailored to the order.

🖼️ How to frame a watercolor? – Key information

1. Mat – for display and protection

Watercolors look best when framed with amat, which creates an elegant margin around the work, giving it depth and visual breathing space. The color selection should be thoughtful – often, neutral colors (ecru, beige, gray) work well, gently transitioning into the frame without disrupting the perception of the painting.

2. Acid-free materials – protection for years

To maintain the durability of watercolors, it is extremely important to useacid-free matting. Acidic products can causeyellowing, paper cracking and fading of pigments over time. Workshops such as Galeria Norland offer a wide selection of professional, acid-free materials.

3. Distance from the glass – a necessity, not an option

The mat also serves a protective function: it creates the distance between the image and the glass, which prevents condensation of vapor and warping of the paper. It also protects against the work sticking to the glass – particularly important for pastels and watercolors.

4. Choice of glass – regular or museum quality?

The glass protects the watercolor from dust, moisture, and contaminants.

Regular glass – more budget-friendly, but reflects light and can hinder the viewing of the artwork.
Museum glass (anti-reflective, UV) – almost completely eliminates reflections, has perfect clarity, and protects the image from UV rays. It is more expensive, but significantly enhances the quality of the display and the durability of the artwork.

💡 Why is it worth buying directly from the artist?

When you purchase a painting on the website barbaraputo.pl:

– you receive it without intermediaries and commission from third parties,

– the prices of the paintings equal to those listed on other gallery websites will be cleared of commission in direct contact,

– you can consult the framing and shipping options,

– you have contact with the author and access to the history of the work's creation,

– you support creativity directly, in its purest form.

📬 Do you have another question?

If you want to ask about something not covered here – feel free to write. There are no stupid questions, only conversations from which everything begins.