FAQ
GENERAL
What is Koena Atelier?
Koena Atelier is a South African online store specialising in African-inspired canvas and texture art, artistic homeware, and hand-poured candles. Every piece we carry is original, hand-made, or produced in small batches by South African artists and artisans. We exist for those who want their home to carry intention — not trend.
Where are you based?
We are based in South Africa, with delivery available to Cape Town, Johannesburg, and nationally across the country.
Do you have a physical store or showroom?
We are an online store. While we do not maintain a permanent gallery space, we regularly present our work through curated pop-up exhibitions and are featured in established galleries throughout the year.
Are the artworks and homeware pieces truly original and hand-made?
Yes. We do not stock mass-produced, machine-printed, or factory-made items. Every canvas and texture artwork is one of a kind. All homeware is hand-thrown, hand-carved, or hand-crafted by individual artisans working in small batches. Slight variations in form, glaze, or finish are a natural result of the process — not a defect.
Who are the artists and makers behind the pieces?
We work with a curated circle of South African and African artists and makers. Each piece is accompanied by a short provenance card crediting the individual behind it. Nothing on our site is anonymous.
Can I commission a custom piece?
Yes. Custom commissions are available for canvas and texture art, including specific dimensions, colour palettes, and wall placement guidance. Reach out to us with your brief and we will connect you with the right artist.
How do I contact you?
You can reach us via the contact form on our website, or directly at info@studiokoena.co.za. We respond to all enquiries within one business day.
SHOPPING INFORMATION
How do I place an order?
Browse the collection, select your piece, and proceed through the checkout. Orders are confirmed via email once payment has cleared.
Can I purchase art as a gift?
All products make meaningful gifts. At checkout, you can include a personalised note with your order — handwritten and placed inside the packaging. Gifting sets within our candle collection are also available, presented in curated, ready-to-give packaging.
Are all items shown on the website available for purchase?
All items listed are available unless marked Sold or Out of Stock. Because many pieces are one-of-a-kind or made in limited batches, we cannot guarantee restocks of specific items. If a piece you were considering is no longer available, contact us — we may be able to connect you with something similar or facilitate a commission.
Do you offer returns or exchanges?
We take care to photograph and describe every piece accurately so that what arrives reflects what you selected. Should a piece arrive damaged or significantly different from what was shown, please contact us within 48 hours of receipt with photographs and we will resolve it. Please note that natural variations in glaze, texture, grain, and hand-applied pigment are inherent to hand-made work and do not constitute damage.
How are the artworks packaged for delivery?
Canvas and texture works are packed flat or rolled in protective tubing, depending on size and the artist's recommendation. Ceramic and sculptural homeware is individually wrapped and boxed to withstand transit. Candles are packed in protective tissue and boxed securely. Fragile and high-value pieces are packed by hand before dispatch.
Do you deliver to my area?
We deliver to Cape Town, Johannesburg, and all major centres across South Africa. Remote locations may have extended delivery windows — we will always confirm your timeline before your order is dispatched. International delivery is not currently available, but please contact us if you have a specific enquiry.
How long does delivery take?
Cape Town and Johannesburg orders typically arrive within 2–4 working days. Deliveries to other areas of South Africa typically take 3–7 working days. Large or fragile pieces may be dispatched via a specialist art courier, which can add 1–2 days but ensures your piece arrives without compromise.
Will I receive tracking information?
Yes. A tracking number is sent to you via email once your order has been dispatched. If you have not received tracking details within 2 business days of your order confirmation, contact us and we will follow up immediately.
PAYMENT INFORMATION
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit and debit cards through Paystack and Payfast, as well as EFT (electronic funds transfer) for South African customers. Payment options are displayed at checkout.
Is it safe to pay on your website?
Yes. Our checkout process is secured with SSL encryption. We do not store your card details — all transactions are processed through a trusted, PCI-compliant payment gateway.
Do you offer payment plans or instalment options?
We understand that original art and considered homeware represent a meaningful purchase. Instalment options via third-party payment providers may be available at checkout. If you are considering a high-value or commissioned piece and would like to discuss a payment arrangement, contact us directly and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Will I receive a receipt or invoice?
An order confirmation is sent to your email address immediately upon successful payment. A formal invoice is available on request — simply email us with your order number.
What currency are prices displayed in?
All prices are displayed in South African Rand (ZAR).
What happens if my payment is declined?
If your payment does not go through, your order will not be confirmed and no amount will be deducted. Please check your card details and try again, or contact your bank. If the issue persists, reach out to us and we will assist.