Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is a Giclee? How do you pronounce it?
A: Giclee is a French word translated to mean "sprayed on," guided by computer imaging software the image is literally sprayed onto the print media. The proper pronunciation is something like this; say the letter g then follow that by saying clay. In French you would roll the g by exhaling while saying giclee.
Q: Why do you recommend shipping canvas giclees unstretched?
A: A number of experiences with this product has shown that during shipping a stretched canvas goes through a number of environmental changes; especially changes in temperature and humidity; both of which can cause some minor shrinking and expansion of the stretcher bars. We feel it is best to have it stretched by a professional in the climate in which you live.
Q: What is the essential difference between an offset print and a giclee?
A: Offset lithography is a photo printing technique that uses inks carried by rubber rollers called printing blankets, to transfer images from metal plates to paper. The best way to visually see the difference is to examine an offset print side by side with a giclee and look at each with an 8X photo loupe.
Q: What does S/N mean?
A: S/N is a short way of saying
Signed and Numbered.
Q: What is Rag Paper
A: A high quality paper made of 100% Cotton.
Q: How does a publisher preserve the integrity of a limited edition.
A: By keeping editiion sizes low. Usually less than 1000 total.
Q: What is copyright infringement?
A: Any use of an Artist's images without expressed approval of the artist. In some cases copyright infringement can bring both civil and criminal charges,
Q: What is a time limited edition?
A: A certain period of time, determined by the publisher, in which a limited edition may be purchased. These offers are generally followed by a disclaimer such as "not to exceed" 250 S/N or 500 S/N. Thus preserving the integrity of the edition.
Q: What determines the value of a print when it is sold out.
A: Market demand. It is worth what someone is willing to pay for it.
Q: What is an open edition?
A: An edition, not numbered or limited in size; Usually printed from an offset press. Occasionally a publisher will publish an open edition giclee which may be offered as either signed or unsigned.
