Adding value to Fine Art Collectible Prints.

We wrote earlier about the importance of using UV-resistant, pigmented inks. Quality ink is the only way to create an archival print that will last for generations.

In that discussion, we mentioned "supports." So let's talk a bit about why they are so important.

Supports

Supports are anything on which an artist paints or prints his artwork. (We'll discuss in a future email the actual process from easel to print.)

Supports include, of course, canvas. But, if you go back to the Old Masters, you'll find their choice was, most often, wood.

Fine Art prints depend on paper, but not any kind.

You see, the paper has to be specially prepared to accept the ink.

I'm sure you've had the experience of using a magic marker that "bled through" the paper making a mess on your table cloth. However, there are papers on which you can use markers that will remain on the paper's surface and leave the reverse side spotless.

If the paper is not prepared to receive the ink, bad things can happen over time. We mentioned fading, but this is worse. The ink can bleed through. It can even begin to separate and flake off the surface. These problems can turn a beautiful work of art into a disappointment.

Archival quality.

I'm sure you have held an ancient book. You have to turn the pages carefully as, in some cases, they will almost fall apart in your hands.

This condition is because, until the 1930s, paper was acidic. That's also why old books turn yellow with age. In addition, the paper manufacturing process left what is called "ligins" in the paper, which caused all the mischief in older paper products.

In the 1930s, scientists developed a method to remove the acid from paper, increasing its longevity and usefulness, especially for important documents. As a result, today, we have an alkaline paper with a life expectancy of 1,000 years for the best grade. Even average classifications sport a 500-year lifespan.

My paper

The paper I use is the finest acid-free/alkaline paper I can find.

Not only is the paper specially treated to receive the inks I use, but it contains elements within the surface that enhance the jewel-like effect I achieve in my original paintings.

Nothing is more important to me than producing a quality product for my clients. So, from the paper to the ink, you'll receive a print that will stand the test of time and become a cherished family heirloom.

For those who explore my hand-embellished (we'll explain that in a future email) prints, you'll find a work of art that resembles an original painting at a fraction of the cost.

Visit me.

Let's take the next step to bring your home alive with the wonder of the aquatic world. Click here for my online gallery.