What is a Giclee?
(PRONOUNCED ZHEE-KLAY)
The term "giclee" comes from the French word for "to spray." This interpretation accurately describes the art form of giclee printing, which involves reproducing an original piece of art using a printer to achieve an almost identical likeness. This process demands a high resolution ink-jet printer that produces a wider range of colors for translating artwork with color accuracy and resolutions that are otherwise not possible with other forms of printmaking. Giclee prints are highly valued for their exceptional quality and can be found in prestigious art galleries, museums and private collections worldwide.
Limited Edition Giclee Prints can offer a more affordable option than original paintings, though still retain their value especially when signed, numbered and limited to set editions. They can increase in value over time, the same as an original work of art.
These prints meticulously replicate the vibrant colors and intricate details of each brushstroke of the original painting using high quality inks and UV inhibiting varnish which is designed to add an extra level of protection to the ink on the canvas. This coating also increases the longevity of the colors in your image. They can be treated them with the same level of care and respect as an original piece of artwork.
The Process
It all starts with a trusted local fine art printer who handles the reproduction and printing process in its entirety to create top-of-the-line giclee prints. The meticulous attention to detail ensures each print maintains the highest quality standards and precision in every print.
The original artwork is expertly photographed using a special large format digital camera to capture breathtaking images with an enormous file size and edge to edge clarity. Most photos on your phone are shot at a resolution of 72dpi, or "dots per inch" while a fine art giclee requires at least 300dpi to provide utmost detail. This can only be captured by a high quality camera system. The image is then color-corrected by a careful eye to meticulously match the likeness of the original painting. Test proofing is done to inspect the color, density and detail of the image as well as suggest any changes required before a full size print is made.
These demanding giclee prints require a large format printer with an advanced color management system to finely and precisely spray the ink onto artist-grade canvas. The wide color gamut, rich saturation, deep blacks, definition and detail make these canvas prints truly stunning.
Once the reproduction stage of the artwork is complete, the digital file, though as close as possible to the original painting, is now an entity of its own.
Giclees can be printed on specialized paper or canvas. When printed on canvas, they must be stretched by a framer in order to be displayed.
The stretching process begins with the canvas print itself, which in this case is made from cotton. The canvas gets gently pulled over a sturdy wooden frame, known as stretcher bars, usually made out of pine. With precision to ensure there are no wrinkles or sags, the canvas is pulled tight to create a smooth, even surface that showcases the artwork in all it’s glory.
To achieve this, the edges of the canvas are carefully stretched and folded over the wooden bars and secured in place, usually with staples. This part is done with care, ensuring the image aligns just right, especially if it wraps around the edges. Once stretched, the canvas print is wired and ready to hang, bringing a touch of tranquility and beauty to any space.
All prints are made-to-order and are hand signed and numbered.
Caring for Your Giclee Print
With these simple steps, your Limited Edition Giclee Canvas Print will last more than a lifetime.
Shop Limited Edition Giclee Prints
Browse a collection of Limited Edition Giclee Prints on canvas. All prints are made-to-order and come hand-signed and numbered.
