Common Questions
What does sustainable sourcing mean?
Sustainable sourcing means that all materials used are responsibly obtained and that no animals or insects are harmed for the purpose of creating this art. This ensures that nothing is taken unnecessarily and honors what already existed, rather than contributing to harm.
Where do the bones and skulls come from?
Bones and skulls are sourced through a combination of natural foraging and ethical suppliers. Many are found after natural passing, while others are byproducts that would otherwise go to waste. Every element used by Soil Bound follows U.S. Fish & Wildlife guidelines and the CITES Act. These standards help ensure that each piece honors both the life it came from and the ecosystems it belongs to.
Are the insects real, and how are they sourced?
Yes, all insects are real. They are sourced from reputable insect farms and ethical suppliers. These farms raise insects for conservation, education, and sustainability purposes, helping reduce pressure on wild populations.
Why are insect farms considered environmentally beneficial?
Insect farming requires significantly fewer resources than traditional agriculture and can help support biodiversity. By providing a controlled and sustainable source, these farms reduce the need for wild harvesting and contribute to a more balanced ecosystem.
Butterfly farms are environmental powerhouses that protect land by providing local communities with sustainable economic alternatives to deforestation and agriculture. By turning forest conservation into a profitable endeavor, these farms incentivize habitat preservation, bolster biodiversity, and aid in repopulating endangered species through captive breeding and reintroduction.
Will my piece look exactly like the photos?
Yes! Each piece is one of a kind and individually photographed, so what you see is what you get!
Are imperfections normal?
Yes. Because natural materials are used, you may notice small imperfections such as minor cracks, worn edges, a slightly frayed wing or missing elements (like teeth or antennae). These are not flaws, but part of the story and authenticity of the piece. At Soil Bound these imperfections are embraced, as they show the passage of time and the life lived by these creatures.
What should I do if my item arrives damaged?
If your artwork arrives damaged, please contact me at sales@soilboundart.com within 48 hours of delivery and include clear photographs of:
- The damaged artwork
- The interior packaging
- The exterior shipping box
This allows me to assess the situation and work with you toward an appropriate resolution. While minor shifts or imperfections may occur due to the nature of the materials, significant damage caused during shipping will always be addressed with care and fairness.
Can pests get into my artwork?
While rare, if this occurs, place the item in a sealed bag (double-bagged) and freeze for at least seventy-two hours, though one to two weeks is recommended to ensure full resolution. After the issue has been resolved, adding a fresh layer of silicone adhesive around the rim is suggested.
What is the best way to care for my new artwork?
Some skull and jaw pieces may have movable elements, but they are not designed for repeated handling, adhesives can wear over time, and components may loosen if frequently manipulated. I recommended to display these artworks rather than incorporate them for interaction.
When receiving a glass encapsulated piece, it is always best practice to handle from the base and not the glass dome itself. These designs are lightly sealed with a silicone adhesive but are subject to loosening after shipping and repeated handling.
All artwork from Soil Bound should be kept in a dry, cool environment. Because of the use of natural materials in these works contact with humidity or exposure to direct sunlight can significantly alter the appearance and longevity of your artwork.
When cleaning your artwork avoid paper towels as they may be too abrasive to the glass and cause minor scratches. Microfiber towels can be used to gently remove dust from specimens, while a gentle glass cleaner can sparingly be used on glass display components.