The Fine ART Print - Real or Not?

Demystifying the Print

I don’t know about you, but my eyes glaze over when trying to determine not only the difference in the varied styles of prints, but also how to recognize what is the real thing. Many are touted to be originals when in fact they are not. If you are not educated in the subtle differences, to the untrained eye a beginning collector can be taken in. To those of us who would like to be enlightened, an article Demystifying the Print written by Michael Trant, columnist for Fine Art Registry, skillfully delivers a concise explanation.

Techniques in printing have been many and varied over the years. Those reproductions created by the artist himself are considered original prints and of course are more valuable. This seems very straightforward and makes sense. However, now we begin the more in depth examination when we have to consider the variety of surfaces involved. Print quality is another consideration and all the extras that add greater value.

Michael explains the most common fine art print types used today are; beginning with lithographs, serigraphs, seriolithographs and giclees, which is the newest of the methods. He has many tips for the novice collector of fine art prints and how to avoid the pitfalls that are often encountered.

Prints are without a doubt a great way to enter the world of collecting fine art. They are often less money and that makes it very desirable for the beginning collector. But, being keenly aware of what you are purchasing is a process of self-education. The article is chock-full of information that will help those who are not well versed in the fine art print market. By taking Michael’s sage advice, you will find yourself enlightened and ready to answer the question yourself, Real or Not? This article can be read in its entirety at www.fineartregistry.com.