Questions About Reproductive Art Terms

We are frequently asked about the technical differences between various types of art, prints, and reproductions we sell.  In addition to our limited and evolving inventory of original paintings, Island Art & Treaures is proud to offer a unique selection of varied tropical images.

Recent technical innovations in the production of reproductive prints, allows for cost effective print processes.  Advanced electronic imaging capability makes it feasible to produce one or two images at a time from digital files instead of having to publish hundreds. Each of our prints is authorized and produced under the artist's watchful eyes.  To assist in the understanding of these technical differences, we offer below some of the more frequently used terms.

ORIGINAL PAINTING
This is the original artist's handmade work of art.  These can be either oil paints on canvas or panels, or acrylics and watercolors on other mediums.

GICLEE
Giclay (zee-clay) is a French word meaning "sprayed ink". It is the most modern method of art reproduction.  An original painting is digitally captured with a high resolution Phase One camera, and then transferred to a computer with special color management software. Following this process a large inkjet printer sprays the UV stable, high longevity pigmented inks on the artist's choice of media. The resulting continuous tone, intense color is unparalleled.  In many cases the artist will then hand retouch any areas that they feel require a special touch. 

LITHOGRAPHIC REPRODUCTIONS 
Also called Photomechanical reproduction or Photo-Lithography.  The original work is photographed, separated into 4 colors, and printed on paper by an offset lithography press. When examined very closely you may see the dot patterns of the four colors.

POLYCHROME PRINT
The subject is digitally captured.  The image is then electronically adjusted and then chemically printed on emulsion enhanced paper. The continuous tone color is saturated and accurate.

OPEN EDITION PRINT/LIMITED EDITION PRINT
Prints and reproductions are published either as a limited edition of a pre-set quantity, or, an open edition with no predetermined number.

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