It doesn’t happen to me often but every once in a while someone likes to complain to me about my print prices. Next time that happens I’m just going to show them this video.
Many artists order their prints from your CVS photo department. Another many, many more order them in bulk from any number of online, low cost, fast delivery options.
How are my prints made? First I photograph or scan the original painting. Then I spend anywhere from 30 minutes to several days editing the digital version of the painting to get the colors and lines correct. After that there’s much test printing and fine tuning to make sure what’s on my screen actually prints a piece that matches the original. I then take the same watercolor paper that I paint on and cut it down to size. Once everything is printed on said paper I hand embellish every, single piece so she matches her original version perfectly. The 10 copied of these archival quality, pigment ink run, hand embellished, fine art prints are signed, numbered and packaged so they can be sent to my incredible collectors.
Too much? Probably. But something about me is that in every career I have ever dabbled in I become an absolute obsessive “I can do that better” perfectionist. When you buy an original painting, a fine art print, or even just a pack of greeting cards you know that at every opportunity I have chosen the best possible materials and process to create that piece for you.
Still think they cost too much? ($45-250)
Understanding the true value of fine art prints requires a deep dive into the meticulous and time-consuming processes that artists invest in to produce each piece. Unlike mass-produced prints available at big-box or bulk online retailers, fine art prints crafted by individual artists embody a commitment to authenticity, quality, and artistic integrity. The creation process begins with either a professional photograph or a digital scan of the original artwork, which serves as the foundation for the print. This digital file is then the focus of extensive editing that may range from 30 minutes to several days. This step involves color correction and refining every line to ensure that the digital version faithfully represents the original brushwork and color palette. Test printing is a critical phase where multiple prints are produced to calibrate and perfect how the digital file transfers onto physical medium. This process guarantees that what appears on screen matches the final print's color accuracy and detail. Unlike cheaper prints on standard paper, these fine art prints are produced on the same high-quality watercolor paper the artist uses for originals. Often this paper is archival-grade, designed to resist fading and deterioration over time. After printing, each piece receives hand embellishment—an artisanal touch where the artist manually enhances and perfects details, making each print unique. Every print is signed, numbered, and packaged individually, adding to its collectible value. This hands-on approach and dedication to using premium pigment inks and paper justify the higher price range of $45 to $250. It's a reflection not just of the material costs but of the artist's expertise, passion, and painstaking attention to detail. For collectors and art enthusiasts, purchasing such a print is an investment in a piece that closely connects to the original artwork’s spirit and quality, far beyond the typical mass-market print. This level of craftsmanship and care is often overlooked by those only comparing prices, but it embodies the artist’s obsessive pursuit of perfection in every stage of printmaking. In conclusion, while prints ordered through CVS or online bulk services might be convenient and inexpensive, the value of fine art prints lies in their authenticity, archival quality, and the artist’s personal involvement, justifying their price and providing lasting enjoyment and cultural worth.
![A white text box overlays a person and a black cat on a chair, listing ways to say "no" nicely from number 22 to 36. Examples include "Ask me again in a [year, month, week]" and "I'm not taking on any other tasks right now."](https://p16-lemon8-sign-sg.tiktokcdn.com/tos-maliva-v-ac5634-us/oUAIgQfAbxVEMHz8xAR4B5jLHeiMrEW5SMzCMe~tplv-sdweummd6v-shrinkf:640:0:q50.webp?lk3s=66c60501&source=seo_middle_feed_list&x-expires=1817424000&x-signature=LqY5yYY5Rq9ah%2B3myeDT2tfFlcM%3D)
