Our Sales & Shipping Policy

Collector Experience, Sales, Shipping & Stewardship

At The Distelheim Gallery™, acquisition is not transactional, it is intentional. Each work exists within a larger, unfolding body of art created at a singular cultural moment. Rooted in the legacy of Oak Street and shaped by the urgency of time, the gallery operates not as a traditional commercial venue, but as a living archive—one that invites collectors into a relationship with the work, the artist, and the historical context from which it emerges.

This philosophy informs every aspect of how we present, place, deliver, and steward the work.
The Distelheim Gallery™ is structured as an artist-led cultural house. Rather than representing a broad roster, the gallery is anchored in a singular voice and a cohesive, evolving body of work. Each piece exists not in isolation, but as part of a larger narrative—one that reflects artistic exploration alongside a moment of transition, preservation, and cultural response.

Because of this, the gallery does not operate on a conventional retail model. Works are introduced through a combination of private communication, invitation-only salon presentations, direct collector relationships, and select online releases. Many pieces are placed quietly, without ever appearing publicly, while others are made available only for a limited time. Availability is therefore fluid and may change without notice, and the gallery reserves the right to prioritize placement based on curatorial direction, ongoing collector relationships, and broader legacy considerations.

To acquire a work from The Distelheim Gallery™ is to enter into a relationship defined by stewardship, context, and continuity. Original works are one-of-one and, once placed, become part of a permanent collector record. Limited editions and collector objects—such as prints, boxed sets, and archival reproductions—are produced in strictly defined quantities and are not reissued once complete, unless explicitly stated at the time of release.

Each qualifying work is accompanied by documentation that situates it within the broader body of work, including a Certificate of Authenticity and detailed records of title, medium, dimensions, and year, along with edition information where applicable. The Gallery maintains internal provenance records for all works, forming part of a long-term archival system designed to preserve continuity and historical accuracy.

Given the nature of original and limited-edition works, all sales are final. The Gallery does not offer returns, exchanges, or cancellations. Collectors are encouraged to engage fully with the work prior to acquisition—through direct conversation, additional imagery or video, and, where possible, private or salon-based viewing—so that each decision is informed and intentional.

The works themselves are often materially complex—layered, textured, and dimensional. While every effort is made to represent each piece accurately, variations in color, surface, and scale perception may occur due to lighting conditions, screen displays, and the inherent qualities of mixed media. These variations are not defects, but rather part of the physical presence of the work. Collectors seeking additional clarity are encouraged to request further materials or arrange a private viewing.

A defining element of The Distelheim Gallery™ experience is the salon.

These intimate, invitation-based gatherings—typically limited to a small number of guests—are designed to create direct access to the work within a conversational setting. Here, collectors engage with the artist, hear the story behind specific pieces, and experience the work within the context in which it was created.

These are not traditional exhibitions; they are moments of shared access.

Works presented in salon settings may be reserved, placed on hold, or acquired during or immediately following the event. Availability is not guaranteed beyond the time of presentation, and attendance is treated as a meaningful commitment within a curated environment. Those who participate may receive early access to new works, priority consideration for placement, and invitations to future private offerings.

Pricing reflects not only the material and scale of a work, but also its position within the broader body of work and the moment in which it was created. Prices are listed in U.S. Dollars and may change without notice. Payment is required in full unless otherwise arranged, with accepted methods including credit and debit cards, ACH or wire transfer—preferred for higher-value works—and, in select cases, approved installment arrangements.

For certain works, the Gallery may offer temporary holds or require a non-refundable deposit to secure placement. If payment is not completed within the agreed timeframe, the Gallery reserves the right to release the work and retain any deposit made. Ownership transfers upon receipt of full payment and release of the work for delivery or pickup.

The delivery of a work is treated as an extension of the acquisition experience. Each piece is prepared with care, using professional packaging and materials appropriate to its scale and composition. Shipping may be arranged through fine art handlers, insured carriers, or white-glove delivery services, depending on the nature of the work. All works are insured in transit, and collectors are provided with appropriate tracking or delivery coordination.

Shipping timelines typically range from five to fifteen business days, though larger or more complex works may require additional preparation time. For collectors based in Chicago, private delivery or scheduled pickup may be arranged. International shipping is available on a case-by-case basis, with collectors responsible for any customs duties, import taxes, or related fees.

Responsibility for the work transfers upon confirmed delivery, or upon transfer to a collector-designated shipping provider. Collectors are asked to inspect the work within 48 hours of receipt and to notify the Gallery of any concerns related to transit. In the event of damage, the Gallery will assist in coordinating appropriate next steps, including insurance claims where applicable.

Beyond delivery, collectors are viewed as stewards of the work. This includes maintaining the piece in a stable environment, preserving its accompanying documentation, and supporting the integrity of the work over time. While not required, collectors are encouraged to inform the Gallery of any future resale or transfer of ownership, allowing for continued provenance tracking and long-term valuation support.

Ownership of a work does not transfer copyright. All rights to reproduce, publish, or otherwise represent the work remain with The Distelheim Gallery™ and the artist. This ensures that each piece continues to live within exhibitions, publications, and the evolving archive that defines the gallery’s mission.
The Gallery is not responsible for delays or disruptions caused by factors beyond its control, including carrier delays, weather conditions, supply chain issues, customs processing, or other unforeseen events. All transactions are governed by the laws of the State of Illinois.

In the end, The Distelheim Gallery™ exists not simply to facilitate acquisition, but to build continuity.

Collectors who engage with the gallery are not participating in a single transaction, but in an evolving narrative shaped by time, place, and intention. Each work placed becomes part of a larger record, a preservation of a moment, a reflection of urgency, and a continuation of legacy.