What's the Difference? - A Print Primer

Clancy here. Each week, people come into Gallery One, just to see us. Many times, they’ll stop to look at the artwork. Naturally, if they have questions, they consult us. Many times they ask us to explain the different formats. So that’s this week’s topic. After answering all ten questions, do what we do – reward yourself with a nap!

1. This term refers to the source from which something arises or the first from which copies are generated. When referring to a painter’s creation, it is the one-of-a-kind work from which future editions are published. Name the term.
2. The ancient Greek word for stone was lithos; graphien in ancient Greek meant “to write.” This type of print is created from a design drawn on a surface such as a stone or mylar. The surface is moistened with water and then ink is applied. Paper is pressed onto this surface to pick up the design. Because this process must be repeated for each print made, each print is slightly different and therefore, unique. What is this kind of print called?
3. Most limited editions on paper are reproduced using this photo mechanical process. The inked image is transferred from a metal plate to a rubber blanket or rollers and then to the printing surface. All of the prints in an edition are identical. What is the term for this method of art printing?
4. This process is the first major change in printmaking since 1796 and has revolutionized the industry. High resolution digital scans direct the spray of archival inks directly onto the paper or canvas resulting in art with superior color accuracy. What is the French-sounding term for this printing process?
5. This type of print is created by taking the top layer of a paper print and fusing in onto a prepared canvas surface. Textured varnish is often applied to replicate the appearance of an artist’s brushstrokes. What is this type of print called?
6. This term means that the artist’s handwritten signature appears on the print (indicating its validity) along with a number identifying the print as one of a limited edition. What is this term associated with limited edition prints?
7. This term refers to an edition in which individual prints are not numbered. What kind of print edition is this?
8. These prints are an exclusive subset (generally less than 10% of the edition) traditionally reserved for the artist’s personal use. They bear the letters “AP” and a number. What is their name?
9. This type of art usually bears an image by an artist as well as information (such as exhibition dates and locations of galleries or museums). Name this art form.
10. This term means that the artist has added a small, original drawing, often in the margin of a paper print or on the back of a canvas print. What is it called?

ANSWERS TO WEEK #10

1. Force and Magic
2. Passage to Autumn
3. First Moments of Gold
4. Echoes in Gold
5. Golden Season – Gray Squirrel
6. Hardwood Forest – White-Tailed Buck
7. Moonrise at Sunset
8. Autumn Chill
9. The Watchers
10. Train Depot