As mentioned in the previous article "Fine Art Print Making 101" a giclee reproduction is made by a computer file and an archival inkjet printer.  There are critics out there that believe giclee reproductions will not appreciate in value because they are created on a machine so they should not be purchased as an investment.  Do these critics really believe that if any of the old masters were able to make signed limited edition giclee reproductions of their famous works collectors would not value them worth much? Bull.

What then makes a giclee reproduction become valuable?  We know it is not the medium, but the rarity and desirability of a piece.  Digital printing has opened up a whole new world of marketing options for artists.  Giclees are accepted and established in the art world.  They are bought and sold in galleries and shows worldwide.

In order for a piece to be rare and desirable for collectors and command a higher price the artitist would have to make signed, numbered limited edition prints from the original.  The general guideline for pricing has become between 1/2 and 1/5th the price of the original.  The price being influenced by the number of reproductions in the edition.

Limited editions create a perception of value because, well because, there is a limited number of them. This makes selling them easier.  Artists who are not well known might decide to sell open signed editions.  Open editions have larger marketing options because print output is not limited.  So if you are lucky enough to have a mass marketer interested in your piece you are free to pursue that course.

Which ever way you decide to sell your art, always remember to have fun!