Introduction
1.1. North Coast Artists (“NCA”, “we”, “our”) operates an online platform that showcases and sells original artwork created by participating artists (“Artists”).
1.2. These Terms & Conditions (“Terms”) govern your use of the website and the purchase of artwork through the platform.
1.3. By browsing, registering, or purchasing on this website, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

Role of NCA
2.1. NCA acts as a curated marketplace, facilitating transactions between Artists and Buyers.
2.2. Ownership, creation, authenticity, and accurate representation of each artwork remain the sole responsibility of the Artist.
2.3. NCA handles the online sales transaction and initial communication but is not the physical handler of artworks, nor the courier.

Artist Responsibilities
3.1. Artists must ensure that:
all artworks listed are accurately described and photographed; artworks are available and ready for dispatch within the agreed 5 working day dispatch window after an order is confirmed; artworks are packaged securely for courier transport; they communicate professionally and timeously with the Buyer to arrange delivery.
3.2. Artists are solely responsible for confirming availability and authenticity of works
listed for sale.

Payment Process
4.1. Buyers pay NCA directly through the online checkout system.
4.2. Once payment has cleared, NCA notifies the Artist to prepare the order for dispatch.
4.3. NCA pays the Artist their sale amount (minus any agreed fees or commissions) within 7 working days of the artwork being dispatched.
4.4. Dispatch confirmation must include a valid tracking number from the courier.

Delivery & Courier Handling
5.1. After the online sale is completed, the Artist and Buyer arrange delivery directly at mutually agreed courier rates.
5.2. The Buyer is responsible for paying delivery fees unless otherwise agreed with the Artist.
5.3. Risk transfers to the Buyer once the artwork has been handed to the courier.
5.4. Courier Damage Clause:
 The Artist must package the artwork securely and appropriately for transport.
 If a courier damages the artwork, responsibility lies between the Buyer and the courier, according to the courier’s own terms.
 NCA is not liable for courier-related damage, delay, or loss.
 Artists are encouraged to use reputable couriers and offer optional insurance to Buyers.
 Buyers are responsible for submitting damage claims directly to the courier within the
required timeframe.

Returns & Refunds
6.1. Returns are permitted only under the conditions set out in the Returns Policy (below).
6.2. Because artworks are unique, returns are handled case-by-case and must comply with the CPA.
6.3. If a return is approved:
 the Buyer pays return courier fees, unless the Artist materially misrepresented the artwork;
 the artwork must be returned in original condition and packaging;
 a refund is processed within 7 days of the Artist confirming safe return.

Cancellations
7.1. Orders may not be cancelled after the Artist has dispatched the artwork.
7.2. If the Artist fails to dispatch within the 5-day window, the Buyer may request a cancellation and full refund.

Artwork Variations
8.1. Minor colour differences caused by screen calibration do not constitute grounds for return.
8.2. All artworks are handmade; natural variations are part of their character.

Pricing
9.1. All prices are listed in South African Rand (ZAR) and include VAT where applicable.
9.2. NCA reserves the right to update pricing, commissions, or fees with reasonable notice.

Liability
10.1. NCA is not liable for:
 courier loss, breakage, or damage;
 delays caused by Artists, couriers, or force majeure;
 the condition of artworks after dispatch.
10.2. NCA’s maximum liability is limited to the value of the transaction processed through the website.

Governing Law
11.1. These Terms are governed by the laws of the Republic of South Africa.
11.2. Any disputes shall be resolved under South African jurisdiction.