Acquisition Guide

This guide is designed to provide transparency and security for collectors as they navigate the acquisition of work by Michel Devanakis. Whether you are investing in a unique original or an archival multiple, each work is handled with professional rigor to ensure its long-term preservation and value.

1. Unique Original Works

My studio practice is built on technical slowness and conceptual focus. As a result, I produce a limited number of paintings each year, typically between eight and ten. Each work is developed over extended sessions and stands as a distinct stage within an ongoing investigation into the Threshold.

The Acquisition Workflow

To ensure clarity for international collectors, acquisitions follow a structured sequence:

Securing the Work
A non-refundable deposit confirms the acquisition and removes the painting from availability.

Authorization & Preparation
Following the deposit, the mandatory export authorization process is initiated with the Greek National Gallery. At the same time, the work is prepared for transport using archival standards.

Final Payment
Once authorization and preparation are complete, the collector is invited to complete the balance.

Shipment
The work is dispatched immediately upon receipt of the final payment.

Documentation

Each original painting is accompanied by essential documentation:

A hand-signed Certificate of Authenticity
A record of provenance from the studio
A brief narrative situating the work within its series

Logistics

For international delivery, the recommended method is to ship the canvas rolled in a reinforced tube. For larger oil paintings, this approach reduces structural stress during transit.

The surface is protected with acid-free glassine and rolled face-out
Export permits are issued by the Greek National Gallery (typically within 7 days)
All shipments are fully insured for the total invoice value.
Optional Crating: Collectors may request a custom-built wooden crate. This method requires an additional 5 days for construction and involves significantly higher freight costs.

For a detailed overview of the factors that inform pricing, please refer to the Pricing & Valuation Structure page.

2. Limited Edition Fine Art Prints

Limited editions extend access to the work without compromising material standards. They are produced with the same attention to longevity and consistency.

Material & Edition Structure

Printed on Hahnemühle German Etching 310gsm paper or similar
Produced with archival pigment inks
Limited to 100 prints per size
Each print is signed, numbered, and accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity

Edition numbers are assigned sequentially. Once completed, an edition is not reproduced.

Shipping

Prints are rolled and shipped in protective tubes. Delivery operates on a flat-rate system depending on the destination.

Further details are available on the Shipping Information page.