What is a Giclée Print?

“The Overture” shown here in a 16x20” size in fine art paper

I am so glad you asked!

Giclée is a French term and is pronounced zshee-clay. It comes from the word for “nozzle” or “to spray” and refers to the method of using inkjet printers in the process.

Although, not all inkjet printers are alike. The ones in our homes use 4- dye based ink cartridges. The professional printers used in art reproduction use 12-archival pigment based inks.

A true giclée art print is created with these 12- pigment based inks on an archival printing surface. A professional watercolor paper or cotton canvas are great options. This process produces color accurate reproductions that are long lasting and include fine details.

Most giclée's are flat and have no actual texture to them. Sometimes paint will be added afterward to embellish the print. (The one’s I offer are not embellished.)

“Taking the Long View” and “The Overture” shown here in 11x14” canvas prints.

Colors resist fading and the paper/canvas will not yellow over time when using all archival materials. It is the highest quality art reproduction available. The Louvre as well as other well-known art museums collect and display giclée prints.

So, how long will they last?

A framed giclée or varnished canvas giclée displayed under normal home lighting (no direct sunlight) can last up to 85 years without any noticeable fading. If kept in darkness and in specific environmental conditions, they can last up to 200 years without noticeable fading or yellowing! Pretty amazing right?!

Many “art prints” on the market today are actually poster prints. These are not necessarily color accurate to the original and will fade and yellow with time because they are not made with archival materials. There is definitely a place for this type of print. They are budget friendly and are readily available.

It is important to know the difference of the quality of print you purchase. I believe that investing in giclée fine art prints is worth it because they will stand the test of time.

“River Serenade” and “Spring Breeze” shown here in 11x14” fine art paper prints

All of the prints I offer are giclée fine art prints. They are created here in a local art reproduction studio. Available in both fine art paper + gallery wrapped canvas options.

Above are some images from Vada Color, the art reproductions studio I use and love in town. It all starts will a museum quality image capture. Every proof is color matched to the original. They are then printed with professional printers using all archival materials. Then canvas prints are carefully protected with two coats of varnish. Each piece is hand cut and stretched with a careful attention to detail. It is quite a process!

“The Overture” in a 16x20” fine art paper print

I hope this post has helped you gain a better understanding of the giclée printing process. Giclée’s are a wonderful option if you want quality art in your home but you aren’t ready to invest in an original. It is a long lasting, high quality product that you are sure to love.