Returns & Refunds

1. Overview

At Art by Joy, we are committed to your satisfaction. However, due to the unique, one-of-a-kind nature of original artwork, our return policy differs from standard retail products. This page outlines when returns are accepted, the refund process, and your rights as a customer.

Please read this policy carefully before making a purchase. By completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to these return and refund terms.

2. General Return Policy

Due to the unique, one-of-a-kind nature of original watercolor paintings, we do not accept returns or offer refunds on original artwork except in the following circumstances:

• The artwork arrives damaged during shipping
• You receive the wrong item
• The artwork has undisclosed defects or authenticity issues
• The artwork significantly differs from its description or photos

3. Damaged Artwork

3.1 Reporting Damage

If your artwork arrives damaged, you must report it within 48 hours of delivery. To file a damage claim:

1. Do NOT discard any packaging materials
2. Take clear, detailed photos of:
   • The damaged artwork (multiple angles)
   • All packaging materials showing damage
   • The shipping label and box exterior
   • Any visible shipping damage
3. Email us with subject line: "Damaged Delivery - Order #[Your Order Number]"
4. Include all photos and a description of the damage
5. Provide your order number and delivery date

3.2 Resolution Options

Upon verification of damage, we will offer one of the following solutions:

• Full Refund: Complete refund of the purchase price (including original shipping costs)
• Replacement: If the artwork can be replicated or a similar piece is available
• Partial Refund: If the damage is minor and you wish to keep the artwork
• Store Credit: Credit toward a future purchase (with bonus percentage as goodwill)

3.3 Return Shipping for Damaged Items

If a return is required, we will provide a prepaid return shipping label. You are not responsible for return shipping costs for damaged items.

4. Wrong Item Received

If you receive an incorrect item (different artwork than ordered):

1. Contact us within 7 days of delivery
2. Provide your order number and photos of the received item
3. Do not return the item until we provide instructions

Resolution: We will send you the correct artwork at no additional cost and provide a prepaid return label for the incorrect item. You may also choose a full refund instead.

If we discover the error before shipping, we will contact you to confirm whether you'd like the substitute or a refund.

5. Significantly Different from Description

If the artwork you receive is significantly different from the description or photos on our website (excluding minor variations inherent in handmade art):

1. Contact us within 7 days of delivery
2. Provide detailed photos showing the discrepancy
3. Explain the specific differences you've identified

We will review your claim and may request additional photos or information. If we determine the artwork does significantly differ from our representation, you may:

• Return the artwork for a full refund (we cover return shipping)
• Receive a partial refund and keep the artwork
• Exchange for a different artwork of equal or lesser value

6. Change of Mind / Buyer's Remorse

Original artwork is a unique purchase, not a mass-produced item. We provide:

• High-resolution images showing fine details
• Accurate measurements and descriptions
• Multiple photos from different angles (when available)
• Detailed medium, size, and condition information

Please review all product details carefully before purchasing. If you have questions about an artwork, contact us before placing your order.

6.1 Cancellation Before Shipment

If you wish to cancel your order before it ships, contact us immediately. We may be able to cancel the order and issue a full refund if the artwork has not yet been packaged or dispatched. Once shipped, the order cannot be canceled.

7. Commissioned Artwork

7.1 Deposit Policy

For commissioned work:

• A 50% non-refundable deposit is required to begin work
• The deposit covers materials, time, and reservation of the artist's schedule
• If you cancel after work has begun, the deposit is forfeited

7.2 Approval Process

Commissions include an approval process:

1. Initial sketch or concept for your approval
2. Progress photos during creation (if requested)
3. Final approval before shipping
4. Minor revisions included (as agreed in commission contract)

Once you approve the final artwork, the sale is final and no refunds or returns are accepted.

8. Refund Process

8.1 Refund Timeline

Once your return is approved and we receive the returned artwork (or confirm damage):

• Processing: 3-5 business days to inspect and process the return
• Refund Issued: Within 5-7 business days after processing
• Bank Processing: Additional 5-10 business days for your bank to post the refund

Total timeframe: Approximately 14-21 business days from return approval to funds in your account.

8.2 Refund Method

Refunds are issued to the original payment method:

• Credit/Debit Card: Refunded to the same card used for purchase
• UPI/Net Banking: Refunded to the linked account
• Cash on Delivery: Refunded via bank transfer (provide account details)

8.3 Partial Refunds

Partial refunds may be granted in the following situations:

• Minor damage that doesn't affect the artwork's overall appeal
• Artwork shows signs of being displayed or used
• Packaging is missing or damaged (if return is accepted)
• Mutual agreement for resolution without full return

9. Non-Returnable Items

The following items cannot be returned under any circumstances:

• Commissioned or custom artwork after approval
• Digital products or downloads (if offered)
• Gift cards or store credit
• Artwork purchased during final sale or clearance events (unless damaged)
• Items marked "Final Sale" or "No Returns" at the time of purchase

10. Return Shipping Guidelines

10.1 When We Cover Return Shipping

We cover return shipping costs when:

• Artwork arrives damaged
• Wrong item was sent
• Artwork is significantly different from description
• Defective or authenticity issues

10.2 Return Packaging Requirements

If you need to return an artwork:

• Use the original packaging if possible
• Protect the artwork with bubble wrap and rigid backing
• Mark the package as "Fragile - Original Artwork"
• Insure the package for full artwork value
• Use a trackable shipping method

You are responsible for ensuring the artwork arrives back to us safely. We recommend purchasing shipping insurance.

10.3 Return Address

Do not return items without prior authorization. We will provide a return address and RMA (Return Merchandise Authorization) number when your return is approved.

11. Exchanges

We do not offer direct exchanges. If you wish to exchange an artwork:

1. Return the original artwork for a refund (if eligible)
2. Place a new order for the desired artwork

Alternatively, we may offer store credit for the returned item that can be applied to a new purchase.

12. Inspection Period

Upon receiving your artwork:

• Inspect the package immediately upon delivery
• If the outer packaging is damaged, note it with the courier and photograph it
• Carefully unpack and inspect the artwork within 48 hours
• Report any issues immediately (within 48 hours for damage, 7 days for other issues)

After the inspection period, we assume the artwork was received in good condition.

13. Restocking Fees

We do not charge restocking fees for approved returns due to:

• Damage during shipping
• Wrong item sent
• Significant difference from description
• Defects or authenticity issues

However, if an exception is made for a return outside our policy (at our discretion), a 20% restocking fee may apply.

14. Disputes and Chargebacks

If you have an issue with your order, please contact us directly before initiating a chargeback or payment dispute. We are committed to resolving issues fairly and quickly.

Important: Initiating a chargeback without contacting us first may result in:

• Inability to process refunds or exchanges
• Legal action to recover funds and costs
• Suspension of your account

15. Consumer Rights (India)

This return policy complies with the Consumer Protection Act, 2019 of India. As a consumer, you have the right to:

• Receive goods that match the description provided
• Receive goods free from defects
• Seek recourse for damaged or defective items
• File a complaint with consumer forums if a dispute cannot be resolved

For consumer grievances that cannot be resolved directly, you may contact the National Consumer Helpline (1800-11-4000) or file a complaint at consumerhelpline.gov.in

16. Contact Us for Returns

To initiate a return or refund request, or if you have questions about our policy:

• Email: joymkh21@gmail.com
• Subject Line: "Return Request - Order #[Your Order Number]"
• Include: Order number, reason for return, and supporting photos
• Response Time: We respond within 24-48 hours on business days

Our customer service team will guide you through the return process and provide an RMA number if your return is approved.