Quotations

Here is some pertinent information
that you will help you when making a decision about purchasing artwork.

Archival - Archival material is created on strata that has a neutral PH, and are therefore acid free so that they will resist yellowing and aging. Archival papers are usually 100% cotton.

Mat boards can be archival (100% rag, neutral PH), or buffered (this helps deter the aging process) or non-archival.

Non-archival material will yellow with age and fox (rusty stains will appear). Non-archival mat board will eventually burn the edges of artwork, leaving dark marks on the paper.

Note: Because the environment is slightly acidic to begin with, mat boards will over time become acidic, even if they were made with a neutral PH. It is therefore recommended that mats be changed every 15 years to keep the environment around your original artwork in good condition.

Copyright - All rights pertaining to a work of art are the sole property of the artist unless arrangements have been made and fees paid. The copyright is automatic as soon as anyone creates anything, it is protected. No reproductions of the art for any purpose are allowed without a prior agreement. This extends for 95 years after the artists death and may be extended by the heirs.

Giclee - A Giclee is a reproduction produced using digital imaging. The original work is copied and digitized, then printed. They are usually printed with archival inks on archival paper or canvas.

Limited Edition Print - This refers to the actual number of pieces that are created. This usually refers to work created by any hand pulled printmaking process, and is usually limited by the process itself. An etching plate may only be able to produce 100 images. (see Reproductions)

Original - This term refers to any piece of artwork created by hand. They may be done in a series, but there will be some variations between two pieces - even if they look alike. This term also refers to works produced using any of the many printmaking techniques - such as etching, silkscreen, block printing, lithography, etc.

Print - This term has been used incorrectly for many years to refer to a “reproduction”. The word “print” actually refers to a work done using a printmaking technique such as etching, silk-screen, block printing, or intaglio - these techniques create pieces one by one in a limited number. Over time, the plate deteriorates and is no longer usable - thus the limited number.

Reproductions - The term “print” has been used to refer to “reproductions”. These are copies created by an offset printing or a photographic process. These are made from an Original work of art. An unlimited number can be run off and thousands more when those are sold. Limited Editions of reproductions should be no more than 1,000.