It has been a while since I have been able to post, but I have been sitting on this one for literal months. I am excited to share it with you today, and I hope it is helpful!
Sometimes I forget that a lot of people may not have been educated in art terms, which can lead to some confusion when it comes to purchasing artwork. I have had a few questions lately about purchasing art, prints vs. originals, and what makes something “fine art”? I thought some others might have similar questions, so I wanted to compile all those answers in one place for easy access.
What makes it fine art?
Fine art can be defined as a visual art created primarily for aesthetic and intellectual purposes and valued for its beauty and meaning. In other words, its primary purpose is to exist as art, solely for its visual qualities. It differs from applied arts, which are created with a specific, practical purpose in mind. My paintings would be an example of fine art, and someone creating a ceramic mug or vase would be an example of applied art.
What is original fine art?
Original fine art is art that was created by an artist for aesthetic purposes. It's a one-of-a-kind piece, and the value is higher than an art print.
What is an art print?
A print is a high-quality image reproduction of an original artwork. The image can be printed on paper or canvas of different weights and textures. The prints from katielockhartfineart.com, for example, are created from a high resolution scan of an original artwork, and then printed onto a high quality, unframed canvas. This allows me to offer artwork in a variety of sizes at a more affordable price point. Art prints can be offered as limited or open edition prints (see below).
Closeup of the fine art print Cloud Shadows
What is limited edition vs. open edition?
You might have seen art prints listed as limited or open edition prints. Limited Edition prints are those where only a certain number of them are made. Once the last print sells, there are no more, so these prints typically have a higher value than open edition prints. Open Edition prints, which are what you will currently find on my website, can be printed indefinitely. There is no limit on the number of copies, so there is no limit to how many people can enjoy any given piece.
What is a giclée print?
Giclée is a French term meaning “to spray”, referring to how an inkjet printer works and how giclée prints are usually produced. However, not just any inkjet printer produces giclée prints. Your final image quality basically boils down to these four elements: resolution, ink, paper/canvas, and printer type. Giclée prints stand apart with their extremely high level of quality, longevity and value compared to a standard print.
What is an embellished print?
An embellished print is one where the artist adds to a “regular” fine art print using the medium of their choice. Often it is paint, ink, or some type of metal leaf…and I might just have another idea in mind. In the future I hope to be able to offer some limited runs of embellished prints! Some people consider an embellished print an original since it has been altered by the hand of the artist, but like so many things in the art world, that is a bit subjective.
How do I buy a print from katielockhartfineart.com?
It is really easy! There are limited options for originals, but you can make a purchase by visiting the originals tab on my site. Easy Peasy! For prints, just select the artwork you want, and you will see the description and available size options to the right. Keep in mind that the different size options will change the proportion of your image. Some of them are longer and narrower while others will allow for more of the image width. As of now, all prints are Lyve unframed canvas, but fine art paper is available upon request. Just shoot me an email before ordering. Also, please contact me if you don’t see the size or material you are looking for on the site. And just a reminder, be sure to sign up for the newsletter and stay tuned for all updates on sales, launches, and new products!
XO,