Navigating the art world can sometimes feel like deciphering a foreign language, especially when understanding the nuances of art prints, originals, and multiples. Let’s dive into this topic and clarify some confusion surrounding these terms. As the owner of a fine art gallery in Victoria BC and someone passionate about printmaking, I’m here to guide you through the basics.
What is an Original Artwork?
The term “original” can be a bit tricky because it has two meanings in the art world:
- Uniquely Created: The artist conceived and executed an original piece without copying someone else’s work.
- One of a Kind: It’s a single piece with no other copies.
For instance, when you see the label “original artwork,” you might think there’s only one copy. However, this could also refer to a print available in multiple copies, reducing its value compared to a single unique piece. Therefore, artists should clearly communicate the nature of their work to their customers, especially if the piece is a unique creation. This transparency can significantly affect the artwork’s perceived and real value.
Types of Art Reproductions
Art reproductions come in various forms, each with distinct characteristics and value implications:
- Multiple/Open Edition: These are typically the most affordable art prints. They are unlimited reproductions of artwork and often come unsigned or with the artist’s signature printed on the artwork.
- Limited Edition: These reproductions are more valuable due to their limited number. Artists generally sign and number each print. For example, if an artist produces 50 copies, they should refrain from selling more of the exact reproduction without modifications, like changing the colour or format. Honesty is crucial here to maintain trust and the artwork’s value.
- Limited editions may also include Artist Proofs (AP), which are initial prints used by the artist to check the quality. Due to their exclusivity, these proofs are often more expensive than the standard limited edition prints.
- Unique Copy: This is a one-of-a-kind piece, whether it’s a painting, a sculpture, a monoprint, or a handmade tapestry. For artists selling a unique copy, including a certificate of authenticity can add credibility and value to the artwork.
Different Printing Techniques
‘There are several printing methods used to create art prints, each with its own style and quality:
- Giclée Print: This is a high-quality print of an original artwork. Giclée prints are made using professional photography of the original piece, printed on acid-free paper or canvas with archival inks. They are often inspected individually to ensure top-notch quality. To distinguish a giclée, look for at least eight colour runs on fine art paper.
- Digital Print: More affordable than giclées, digital prints use standard photo paper and inks and lack fine art quality. While they’re a cost-effective option, they don’t match the longevity and vibrancy of giclée prints.
- Screen Print: Created using a stencil technique, screen prints can feature unique colours, such as neon or gold. This method involves applying each colour layer by hand, making each print slightly different and often more valuable.
- Risoprint/Risograph: Like screen printing, risoprinting uses a stencil technique and soy or rice oil-based inks. Each colour is printed separately, resulting in variations that give misprints their charm.
- Lithography: A traditional method where a drawing is made on a stone or metal plate, treated with acid and gum Arabic, and then inked. Limited edition lithographs are highly valued, especially when the prints are of excellent quality.
- Etching/Intaglio Print: This method involves etching a design into a plate with acid. Depending on the material, etchings can produce a limited number of prints, with copper plates yielding more copies than cardboard ones.
Understanding these different types and techniques of art prints can enhance your appreciation of the art and help you make informed decisions when buying or creating art. Whether you’re a collector or an artist, knowing the nuances of art prints can enrich your experience and deepen your connection to the world of art.
