When buying or selling artwork it is important to understand the different types of print available. Two terms that often come up are giclée print and art print. While they may seem interchangeable at first glance they actually refer to different methods of reproduction. Each has unique qualities that affect the print’s appearance longevity and value.
This article will explain the difference between a giclée print and a standard art print so you can make more informed choices whether you are a collector an artist or someone looking to decorate your home.
Understanding Art Prints
Art prints is a general term that covers any printed reproduction of an original piece of artwork. These can be produced using various methods including digital inkjet offset lithography screen printing and more. The quality of art prints can vary widely depending on the process materials and printer used.
Some art prints are mass-produced and aimed at affordability while others are created with attention to detail and sold in limited runs. Art prints may or may not be printed on archival paper and the inks used can differ in durability and colour depth. Because the term is so broad it is always important to check how the print was made and what materials were used before purchasing.
What Makes a Giclée Print Different
The word giclée (pronounced zhee-clay) comes from the French word meaning “to spray” and refers to the way ink is applied to paper. A giclée print is a high-quality inkjet reproduction that meets specific standards. These include using pigment-based inks and printing on archival-grade paper or canvas. The process is designed to produce rich colour detail and long-lasting results.
Giclée printing is especially popular with artists photographers and galleries who want to sell fine art prints that closely match the quality of the original piece. The colour accuracy and level of detail are often superior to standard digital prints and the materials used help protect against fading over time.
Print Quality and Materials
One of the main differences between giclée prints and general art prints lies in the print resolution and materials. Giclée prints typically use a high DPI (dots per inch) usually 300 or more. This produces sharp crisp details and smooth gradients especially in photographic or highly detailed works.
In contrast many art prints are produced using lower-resolution processes especially when made for mass production. They might use dye-based inks which are less resistant to UV light and moisture. The paper might be standard poster paper or coated stock which is not ideal for long-term display.
Durability and Longevity
If you are looking for a print that will last for decades without losing its vibrancy then giclée is the better option. Because they use pigment-based inks and acid-free papers giclée prints resist fading and yellowing far better than typical art prints. This makes them ideal for investment pieces or cherished artworks that will be hung in well-lit spaces.
Standard art prints may still offer decent longevity but they are more likely to show signs of wear especially if not properly framed or displayed away from direct sunlight. For casual decoration or short-term use they can be perfectly suitable but they do not offer the same guarantees of preservation.
Cost and Accessibility
There is usually a price difference between giclée prints and standard art prints. Giclée printing involves higher-quality materials and more precise processes so the cost is generally higher. However for artists looking to sell their work professionally or for buyers wanting something closer to the original the added value is often worth the investment.
Art prints cover a wide range of prices. You can find very affordable poster-style prints as well as mid-range reproductions. The lower price can be appealing especially when decorating large spaces on a budget or when the print is more about style than collectability.
Which Should You Choose
If you are an artist aiming to reproduce your work with accuracy and quality giclée printing is the better choice. It reflects the value of your original piece and ensures your buyers receive a durable product. If you are a buyer looking for something special that will stand the test of time giclée also offers peace of mind in terms of colour fidelity and material strength.
On the other hand if you simply want a beautiful image to brighten a wall or if budget is a key concern an art print may be perfectly suitable. Just make sure to check the details of how it was made and what it was printed on so you know what to expect in terms of finish and durability.
Conclusion
Giclée prints and art prints both serve important roles in the world of visual art. While all giclées are technically art prints not all art prints are giclées. The distinction comes down to the printing method ink type paper quality and attention to detail. Understanding these differences will help you make smarter choices whether you are producing artwork for sale or curating pieces for your space.