Forging the Path to Abstraction Wassily Kandinsky’s woodcuts represent far more than a subsidiary aspect of his artistic production. These remarkable works served as an experimental laboratory where the Russian-born artist worked through fundamental questions about form, space, and perception that would ultimately revolutionise modern art. Whilst Kandinsky is justly celebrated for his groundbreaking abstract … Continued
The emergence of Impressionism in the 1860s fundamentally transformed artistic expression, and printmaking became a crucial medium for exploring and disseminating these revolutionary ideas. Impressionist printmakers, led by figures such as Edgar Degas, Mary Cassatt, and Camille Pissarro, embraced the medium’s inherent qualities to capture fleeting moments and atmospheric effects. Unlike traditional printmaking, which emphasised … Continued
The world of art print publishing is a fascinating blend of creativity and commerce, where artistic vision meets market forces in an eternal dance of supply and demand. From humble beginnings with woodcuts and engravings to today’s digital revolution, the print market has weathered countless storms whilst continuously reinventing itself. Understanding this complex landscape requires … Continued
Johannes Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press emerged from a unique convergence of his background, professional expertise, and the social circumstances of 15th-century Mainz. Born around 1400 into a patrician family involved in the cloth trade and ecclesiastical mint, Gutenberg possessed both the social connections and financial resources necessary for such an ambitious undertaking. His … Continued
1. Confusing Original Prints with Reproductions When collecting fine prints, one of the biggest mistakes is not understanding the difference between original prints and reproductions. An original print is created by the artist as part of the printmaking process itself – think etchings, lithographs, or screen prints where the artist directly works on the printing … Continued
The history of papermaking for fine art prints is a fascinating journey that spans over two millennia, beginning with the invention of paper in ancient China around 105 CE by Cai Lun, a court official during the Han Dynasty. This early paper was made from mulberry bark, hemp, rags, and fishing nets, creating a surface … Continued
Caring for prints properly will significantly extend their lifespan and preserve their value. For Framed Prints on Display Use archival-quality materials throughout. Mount prints with acid-free matting and backing boards, and ensure the frame has UV-filtering glazing – either museum glass or conservation-grade acrylic. Never let the print touch the glazing directly, as condensation can … Continued
The Foundation: Meticulous Documentation When insuring your print collection, the cornerstone of any successful insurance claim for your print collection lies in comprehensive documentation. Every piece in your collection should have a detailed record that includes the artist’s name, the complete title of the work, creation date, edition size and number, dimensions, medium specifications, and … Continued
The limited edition print size is determined by several interconnected factors that reflect both artistic intent and market considerations. The artist typically makes the primary decision about edition size based on their vision for the work’s exclusivity and their desire to maintain the piece’s collectible value, with smaller editions generally commanding higher prices per print. … Continued
