People search for all types of prints. Archival prints. Fine art prints. Giclee prints. Photo prints. Or simply, “prints.”
Does it matter what you get? You bet.
Giclee prints are crème-de-la-crème of fine art reproduction, and give you an opportunity to own art with unmatched fidelity to the original artwork.
But not every one that claims giclee actually does so. Read on for more.
Often, people search for fine art prints without realizing the difference that giclee prints can make. Giclee, derived from the French le gicleur (which means “the squirter”), refers to the process of spraying tiny spots of premium inks onto a surface like archival (i.e., acid-free) fine art paper.
With giclee, pigment-based inks are used rather than dye ink, which is prone to fading. The result is a visually engaging, detailed fine art print that replicates the original painting to the highest degree. There is a strong fidelity to the original work of art because the palette involved in the printing process includes 12 pigments, and adjustments to color and other variables can be readily made to match the original art. Giclee prints are archival, which means they are acid-fee and (with the proper care) resistant to fading or yellowing, ensuring their longevity. Certain printers, however, use less than 12 pigments and pass that off as the same high-quality giclee printing. That is why you will see low-cost, $12 or $15 prints in some venues. In fact, a well-known photo printer claims to offer “giclee” printing, but the reality is, the paper is photographic paper except one option for “fine art paper” mention that is not noted as having archival properties) and their print machines utilize seven (7) inks, not 12 pigments as is the standard for true giclee printing. Discerning artists know the difference, and so do informed customers.
Most people, when they purchase fine art prints, are looking for genuine giclee prints - that is, ones that look like fine art and act like fine art, and thus can be fully appreciated as fine art. While they are more expensive than standard prints, the long-term quality is well worth it. And, at a small fraction of the cost of an original painting, giclee prints make wonderful gifts for birthdays, First Communions, Baptisms, Confirmations, retirements, or any occasion - helping any family member, friend, parishioner, or neighbor become a collector of art that inspires the soul and uplifts the home or office environment.
Photos (L-R): Close-up of giclee prints of the original pastels “And Now I See,” “Lead, Kindly Light,” and “Graced” on Hahnemühle William Turner fine art paper
So what’s wrong with other types of prints? On the surface, nothing…but when a person cares about quality and longevity, then giclee is the best option when it comes to fine art reproductions. Whether you are a seasoned art collector or looking to give a piece of fine art as a gift, a giclee print of a soft pastel painting is sure to please.
After carefully vetting numerous vendors, The Acquired Palette works with a trusted giclee printer known for its superior fine art reproductions, so that original pastels, watercolors, and other works are reproduced with fidelity in terms of marks, chroma, color temperature, and other variables. Besides the fact 12 pigments are used, and there are multiple options for fine art paper carefully vetted by the artist, each giclee is carefully inspected prior to future production, ensuring you receive the high quality fine art reproduction you expect. The big picture matters, but all the details matter too!
Whether you’re looking for a unique gift, or want to invest in beauty for your own surroundings, be sure to invest in a giclee print that can last for generations to come.