FAQs

How are your paintings framed?

Our frame is a simple black molding. On works under 500 square inches (think 20” x 24”-ish), the molding measures .5” on it’s face and is 1.5” deep. On works over 500 square inches, the molding measures .75” on it’s face and is 2” deep. Image sizes listed in the shop are for the image only, the frame adds to that measurement.

Each frame is custom made for its painting and is attached directly to the painting support. If you prefer to substitute your own frame, it can be easily removed by your framer. For directions on how to safely remove the frame, give us a shout at sgrushovenko@gmail.com.

Can I order a piece unframed?

Because so many of the components in our compositions break the edge of the picture plane, we strongly prefer the work framed. The frame acts as an external visual boundary that ‘binds’ the edge of the composition.

If you prefer a different style of frame, we can send you simple instructions on how your framer can safely remove the frame for reframing.

Are the materials used to make your paintings archival?

Yes. Small works are made on cradled, primed Masonite supports that we make to order for each piece. Large works are on stretched linen. The linen is Centurion brand. Genna builds the stretchers himself and they are engineered to lay beautifully flat. Every painting is treated with a hearty coat of UV protecting varnish.

All materials are selected to create heirloom quality objects that will last well into the future.

Where do you get your images?

We collect images from the 1940’s-1980’s both physically and digitally. The actual physical photos come from antique shops, yard sales, and ebay mostly. Digitally we spend hours combing through old images online (pinterest, tumblr, etc.). If you have images from your own family to share, we’d love to see them! We look for images with great physical personality, full figures, good lighting, and with interesting backgrounds and interaction between the figures. Our favorite images are not staged but are instead accidentally well composed…think more quirky and offhand than posed.

Usually we know nothing about our subjects and we prefer it that way. We do our best to avoid working with published images or photos taken by professionals. Instead we’re looking for vernacular images…everyday moments not formally produced compositions.

Do you ever repeat compositions?

Yes. We look through thousands of images to find one that will translate successfully into our style. Once we’ve located such a jewel, we will usually visit that composition now and again over time. Each time we work with an inspiration image is a different experience. Variables in the size of the support, the colors and textures in the underpainting, and where we are in our evolution as artists mean that no two pieces will ever be the same. As an example, you can visit our ‘Crowd Scenes’ archive to see multiple variations of our ‘All in Awe’ and ‘Looking Up’ compositions. While the inspiration was the same, each one has its own vibe.

Do you take commissions?

In an attempt to clear our backlog of custom projects, we are not currently accepting commissions or custom projects.

How is work packed and shipped?

Small to medium-large paintings are carefully double boxed and shipped FedEx ground. Oversized pieces are generally shipped with a company called I Transport 4 You that specifically handles art. The large pieces are minimally packed with a plastic barrier and a cardboard sleeve for protection. This service can sometimes take longer than conventional freight shipping but they handle the work with great care and you aren’t left with a wooden crate to dispose of.