WHAT IS A FINE ART PRINT?
Fine art printing, also called giclee printing, is the closest possible replication of an original artwork. The process uses pigment based inks, archival quality paper and a wide format inkjet printer.
However, every fine art print starts with a high resolution art scan or photo. Without a high resolution digital file, colour and detail will get lost in the process of printing. All of my fine art prints have first been professionally digitised and colour corrected in order to make sure they are as close to the original as possible.
Using pigment based inks is important for colour accuracy. Getting the colours correct is important, especially in abstract art where colour is the main feature and has to “carry” the artwork.
A lower quality traditional print process will use dye-based inks, lower quality paper and a printer that is cheaper. This means that the print is less durable, will fade quicker and is easier to damage.
HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR PRINT.
When cared for appropriately, a fine art print can last a lifetime (between 75 and 100 years).
First of all, it is important to avoid direct sunlight. If this is unavoidable, you should look into a framer who can provide UV-protected glass.
Trying to avoid extreme heat and moisture is also important. For instance, hanging an art print close to a fire place is not a great idea. Hanging an artwork in the bathroom is not a great idea either.
Unpacking your print as soon as you get it, especially if the print comes in a tube. The reason is, that paper has memory, meaning that the longer the print stays rolled, the longer it will take to flatten it out.
YOU CAN READ MORE ABOUT HOW TO FLATTEN YOUR PRINT ON MY FAQ SITE
SO ARE FINE ART PRINTs WORTH THE MONEY?
Like with anything else, you get what you pay for.
As previously mentioned, fine art prints are as close to the original artwork as physically possible. They are a great way to get art into your home when you do not have the funds to purchase original artwork. Whether fine art prints are worth the extra cost depends on whether you value high quality prints or if you are happy with a lower quality, but cheaper print.