What is an original print?
Simply put, a print is an image that has been transferred from one surface to another.
'Printmaking' is a broad term that encapsulates a number of fine art techniques and processes, from etchings and monotype, to digital and screen printing, in which the artist makes images from a master (plate or 'device') or 'matrix'. This includes digital or photographic work where the image has been transferred either digitally from the screen to paper, or from the negative.
Although multiple editions can be created (excluding monotypes which are unique or 'mono'/1), each individual work is indeed an ‘original’ print as it has received the artist's individual attention. All WCPF prints are unique or limited edition, meaning that the artist has produced a finite number.
We define an ‘Original Print’ as a work of art that was conceived as a print in its first instance, as opposed to a reproduction of another original work.
This means the artist has set about to create a print, whether it is an etching, mono-print, lithograph etc. rather than simply taking a photograph or scan of an existing artwork and printing out a number of ‘reproduction’ prints like a poster. The artist decides on the number of editions within the print run and number each accordingly (eg. 1/30). There is no difference in value between the first and the last print within the edition as each one is an original artwork.
Once all editions have been printed the matrix is destroyed or repurposed so no others can be made.
Prints are classified according to the type of surface used to make them. These have historically been divided into three groups: Intaglio, Relief and Planographic. Each procedure is complex, frequently used in combination with another, and is in constant state of revision and refinement. Some artists have even developed their very own printmaking technique, involving all or none of these categories.