Giclée (pronounced zhee-clay) printing is a relatively new process
for art reproduction. It requires digital input (scanning) of original
art or of a large format, professionally produced transparency.
Once this is done, the file is painstakingly color corrected. Proofs
are made to produce a print that closely matches the original art
(or the transparency if the original is no longer available). After the
artist has approved the color, prints are made on a high resolution
inkjet printer using fine art paper or canvas and archival inks. In the past, the artist had to rely on photographic prints or be forced
to invest in offset printing, a process that usually costs thousands of
dollars. With giclée printing, an artist can offer a first rate product to
the art buying public, one that gives the look and feel of the original
artwork. The use of archival materials allows for a reproduction that
will last for generations, if cared for properly. The quality, longevity,
and repeatability are far superior to these other methods.
Giclée reproduction is considered to be “on demand” printing. Unlike
offset printing, you order only what you need at the time. A copy of
the approved piece should be archived by your printer to assure future
color match. |
Susan Imwalle |
