Artist’s Proof (AP) :
When a limited edition is created there will generally be approximately 10% additional run off as Artist’s Proofs. These are sometimes numbered and sometimes they are not. They are exactly the same in quality and marked “AP”. These prints are set aside for the artist and publisher. There is a perception that an AP is of more value because it is a smaller edition. Realistically they are exactly the same but some people prefer to collect AP’s because of their exclusivity. We do not charge more for AP’s if they are available.
Certificates of Authenticity:
Each limited-edition print is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity that serves to authenticate the work for insurance and valuation purposes.
Giclée:
From the French word meaning “spray of ink”, a Giclee is a print created by using state of the art computer technology to reproduce images. By printing the image on media much like that used for the original – usually either canvas or high-quality paper – a piece of artwork stunningly similar to the original is created.
Hors de Commerce:
These prints in addition to the regular edition but are the same as the edition and are used as gifts or payments to those involved in the production of the edition. They are marked “HC” and are usually numbered but not always.
Limited Edition:
A predetermined number of impressions are produced from an original painting, after which no more impressions are allowed. The edition size is the sum of all numbered pieces and artist’s proofs.
Lithograph:
Based on the principle that oil and water repel, a Lithograph is created when an artist produces an oil-based or pen image on a stone or piece of metal. This surface is then moistened and covered with an oil-based ink. The resulting chemical reaction between the oil and water drives away the ink on the surface – except where the drawing was first done. Fine quality paper is then placed against the surface and a lithographic press is used to create the print. Modern technology and processes have provided artists with many unique methods with which to create magnificent lithographs.
Originals:
Originals are painted utilizing acrylic, oil, airbrush, watercolor paints, or various other kinds of media which are hand-brushed onto the canvas. All limited editions and even posters must start out as an original. But, not every original is created into a print edition (you’ll find these under “Unpublished Works”).
Serigraph:
A Serigraph (sometimes called Silkscreen) is created using a printmaking process in which paint is pushed through a fine screen – usually made of silk or nylon — onto either canvas or fine art paper. A different screen is used for each color represented in the print.
A variation on this process is a Seri-cel. Used predominately in animation art, a Seri-cel is created by pushing paint through a screen onto a film surface-likely made of acetate or mylar. This process allows artists to strongly express themselves with the use of vibrant colors and definitions.
Signed and Numbered:
In a limited edition, the artist writes his/her signature and a number on the bottom of the print. The number appears as a fraction, such as 10/75. This indicates that the work is the 10th print signed in this edition of 75 prints.