The printmaking process is generally a complex one, using a variety of different techniques, and medium, depending on the type of print. The artist creates different surface textures, color effects and forms, just as in painting, producing a unique work of art, defined by the artist s style and personality. Prints are usually made in limited editions, making them valuable artworks, although some prints, for example monoprints , mezzotints and others are entirely unrepeatable. Back to top Posters are simply large, glossy, high-quality photocopies, mechanically produced in hundreds or even thousands, often depicting images of originals or other limited edition artworks. Original artwork is among the few products that defy the modern world s insistence on the mass-produced, uniform and artificial.
Artwork is the essence of individual expression and creativity.
Original works of art have a personality and a presence that a poster may remind us of, but fails to reflect in full. Back to top Like with photography, prints that are limited editions are usually signed by the artist to confirm the edition size. Usually the matrix or original printing block is destroyed by the artist after the edition has been printed, thus ensuring that the edition is unique and unrepeatable. Back to top Prints are as collectible as paintings, sculptures or any other artworks. Many works by artists such as Henry Matisse or Pablo Picasso are prints and today they are not only collectible but also highly valuable.