Acclaimed modern art – art from the late 19th and 20th century – represents some of the most exciting art in history; however, modern art originals often come with a hefty price tag. A cheaper way to get quality modern art is to buy a reproduction, which will mean either getting a print or a handmade reproduction.
Read on to find out everything you need to know about buying modern art reproductions.
Print methods
Prints are the most popular and common way to get your hands on a reproduction of a famous – or at least costly – work of art. Even with prints, there are formats and processes to choose between.
Giclee is a high-quality printing method that works in a similar way to an inkjet printer. Reproductions produced with giclee processes have excellent attention to detail and colour; moreover, the colour will hold for a long time. It is also easy to order giclee printing online from companies such as http://www.river-studio.com/fine-art-printing/fine-art-giclee-printing.php.
Lithographic prints can be done for less money, as many can be produced in a short time. They do not stand up under such close scrutiny as a giclee print, but the lower cost may make them attractive.
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Print formats
Next is the choice between canvas and paper, with both available for either giclee or lithographic printing. Canvas reproductions arguably have more presence and are practical, reducing the need for a glass frame; in addition, canvasses add more texture and depth to a room. On the other hand, paper or card is cheaper and therefore easier to obtain. One good way to choose is to look to the original painting. Some would argue that an original canvas oil panting should only be reproduced on canvas and a paper painting on paper or card; in reality, this comes down to personal taste.
Handmade reproductions
These are costlier, as an artist produces the painting. They are never going to be the same as the original, but they are going to have the heart, colour, texture and authenticity of real paintings – because they are one.
Whether you go for a lithograph or giclee, paper or canvas, or indeed a handmade reproduction will all come down to a mixture of personal preference, availability and budget.