FAQs

Artist Proof: Artist proofs are a tradition in printmaking and are generally limited to 10% or less of the regular edition size. These prints are the first ones off the press and made outside of the regular limited edition These prints are signed and numbered as an Artist Proof. Example: 21/65 Artist Proof. They are considered to be more valuable and more of a collector item because there are fewer available. Quality between the regular edition and the Artist Proof is equal. The differences are the "AP" designation and that they have a lower-number edition.

Open Edition: These prints are not numbered and they are not limited in number. An open edition print may be signed by the artist.

Canvas Transfer: A reproduction in which inks are chemically lifted off a piece of paper and applied to a piece of canvas. Some processes can replicate the texture and appearance of an original painting.

Conservation Framing: Framing that aims to prevent warping, fading, tearing or any other
kind of print deterioration. Acid-free mats and glazing with UV protection are used in conservation framing.

Dry Mounting: A pressurized seal that adheres the print to an acid-free foamcore board permanently. This process alleviates any wrinkling or warping with humidity or weather changes. This is not a laminate or anything that will cover the surface of your print. It is relatively inexpensive and well worth the extra cost. Usually not done on limited edition print, but something to enhance longevity of an open edition print or poster.

Edition Size: The total number of prints printed of one particular image. Separate edition sizes are recorded for the signed and numbered prints and artist's proofs.

giclée (pronounced: jhee-Clay) :The French word giclée describes a technique of spraying. Industry wide, it has become the definition for quality, archival fine art reproduced by digital print technology. A giclée is authentic of the original and the specialty of the ink being printed on canvas.

Image Size: The physical dimensions of an image, not counting the white border around it.

Matting: Decorative board used in framing that provides contrast between the image and the moulding. There are numerous styles of matting, including rag mats (100% acid-free and acid-neutral mats (for posters and less expensive open-edition prints.) Denim, faux-leather, linen, metallic, and suede mats are some of the more decorative mats popular today.

Moulding: A piece of wood, plastic, metal, or other material used to frame a piece of art.
Original Painting: A one-of-a-kind image created by an artist that often sells for several
thousands of dollars.

Poster: A reproduction that is usually printed in unlimited quantities with a lower grade of paper and inks than limited-edition or open-edition prints. Posters often include graphics.

Remarque: Small sketches, painted drawings or additional enhancements made by the artist, usually in the margin of the print.

Reproduction: An original work of art that has been replicated by photographic or other means.

Secondary Market: An unofficial network of dealers and individuals who buy and sell prints above the issue price after an image is sold-out at the publisher.

Secondary Market Value: The reported price for a sold-out limited-edition, set by supply and demand. Unlike retail prices, secondary market prices can vary from one source to another.

Signed/Numbered Limited Edition Print (S/N): A reproduction of an original work of art
that is signed and numbered by the artist. The total number of prints is limited by the artist or the publisher. If you have number 65 of an edition of 750, the number looks like this – 65/750.

Sold-Out: When all prints in a limited-edition have been sold, the edition is sold-out and prints must be bought on the secondary market.