Prints in Depth Guide
https://unsplash.com/photos/a-close-up-of-a-printer-on-a-table-Da9qsu-0a00
I’m Kiki and here I'll explain some of the artwork and print definitions that I use on my website. My experience comes from working as a graphic designer since 2014 (including in the commercial print industry) and an artist since 2017.
[Note: Different art disciplines sometimes use the same words (such as prints) to mean slightly different things. That's why the definitions I use will sit within the scope of paintings, photos and illustrations - rather than methods of print-making (such as screen printing, lithography and etchings).]
First I'll discuss original artworks and then go into more depth about prints.
Original Artwork
What are original artworks?
Original artworks are:
- the first authentic unique custom-made work of art that an artist creates.
The Eden Gallery (2021) explains that "An original artwork would, for example, be the first version of a painting an artist creates".
Original artworks are not:
- reproductions of other artwork (including subsequent prints)
- mechanical or digital copies
- imitations of any other existing artwork
"The term original art can be applied to the fine visual arts painting, such as sculpture, and photography. But it may also apply to the first productions of performance work or other kinds of media" (Eden Gallery, 2021).
Check out Eden Gallery's article for more information.
Prints
What are artwork prints?
Prints are paper reproductions of original artworks that have been carefully scanned and adjusted for printing. In comparison to original artworks, prints are reproductions that can include photographs, drawings, sketches, paintings, etchings, linocut,
Originals and prints comparison
- Originals tend to be more expensive because of the exclusivity
- Prints tend to be more affordable and accessible
- Originals (generally) tend to be higher quality and last longer because the artist will put more effort into it, though you can get very high quality prints
Print Methods
Fine Art (Giclée) Prints
Fine Art Prints (also known as Giclée Prints) are extremely high quality
indistinguishable reproductions of original artworks and will last 100 years if looked after correctly. They are printed with genuine lightfast inks which are fade resistant.
High quality
Giclee meaning
Digital Prints
Digital prints are
As a graphic designer who has worked in commercial print companies I have very high standard for printing. I went through several rounds of testing with different printers but have found the folks at Few & Far Studio do a fantastic job to make this reproduction look like it is the original watercolour painting.
Paper Stock
Paper used for printing is often referred to as paper stock or just stock in the printing industry. Paper stock comes in different materials, sizes and thicknesses.
Paper Stock Material
Paper stock can come in many different materials such as coated, uncoated, cardstock and specialty papers (such as textured or recycled options).
Archival stock
Museum quality
I've chosen to print on 240gsm Premium Textured Cotton Rag for its colour reproduction and thickness. It is a 100% cotton, acid-free, archival stock that artists often use to paint original artworks. To ensure your print lasts 100+ years, only touch and handle your print by the edges, avoid bending and keep away from any direct sunlight, moisture, humidity or dust.
Paper material
Cotton rag
Acid free paper
Paper / Stock Thickness
Paper stock come in different thickness, indicated by a GSM number - for example 240gsm or 300gsm. GSM means grams per square metre and indicates the density of the paper fibres. A higher GSM is often associated with higher quality because it requires more material and is more durable.
Paper Sizes
Artworks can be created and printed in any size (depending on your location) but they are commonly found in standardised sizing such as the International Standard (such as A0 to A6) or North American sizes based on inches.
Size is an important factor to consider when purchasing art as it may affect how the piece is displayed. If you wish the piece to be framed and hung, you will need to consider frame and mat board sizing, in addition to how it fits within its environment.
Print & Proper lounge room scale
Ink
Editions
Limited or Open Editions
Artworks (including prints) can be reproduced in batches or what we call 'editions', which can be limited or open. Limited edition means that only a set number of prints will be produced (e.g. 10) whereas open edition means there will be an unlimited amount.
Numbered Editions
Artists may choose to produce only one edition or several different types of editions and they may be numbered (e.g. first edition).They may choose the edition type based on demand, cost and how they want their artwork to be perceived.
