It’s been said that owning original artwork elicits an unparalleled sense of connection with the artist. However, the advantages of contemporary art prints should not be overlooked, as they offer a whole new and improved way to experience art.
These days, incorporating illustration art prints has arguably become the most accessible way to include visual art in the spaces we live and work in. Given their widespread availability, it's inspiring to see how these prints contribute to making art more inclusive and appreciated—and to sparking creative conversations and personal connections.
We’ll get into the nitty gritty, but you’ll see that there is definitely a place for prints alongside original works of art. Happily, graphic design and illustration art posters—such as those from DROOL—may even help make the art market more dynamic with their affordable price points, redefining traditional perceptions about what constitutes valuable art. Let’s look at some of the advantages art prints have, as well as their relationships with original pieces:
1) Print Reproductions Cost Far Less Than Originals
One of the most visible advantages of art prints is their affordability. Reproducing artworks in print form significantly reduces the cost of each piece, making it possible for art lovers to acquire pieces that may otherwise be financially out of reach. This variety of art allows a broader audience to enjoy and engage with a range of artistic styles.
2) Art Prints Can Be Safely Displayed Almost Anywhere
Original works may require specific environmental conditions to prevent damage. Modern art prints, on the other hand, can be safely displayed in a variety of settings. Their resilience to factors like UV light exposure and humidity makes them versatile and suitable for a range of spaces, from homes and offices to public institutions.
3) You Can Get Art Prints with Exceptional Quality
When used correctly, print reproduction technologies like giclée, which you can find on every DROOL print—can produce pieces that are difficult to tell from handmade art, even from up close. So long as you invest in high-quality printing and materials, you don’t have to worry that your graphic design poster or illustration art prints won’t live up to your expectations.
4) There’s Less Anxiety Over Potentially Damaging Art Prints
Collectors often face the dilemma of how to display and protect their valuable original artworks. With art prints, this anxiety is significantly reduced. Since prints are not one-of-a-kind, there is less concern about accidental damage or wear and tear. This peace of mind allows art enthusiasts to enjoy their collection without constant worry.
5) Art Prints are More Accessible
Compared to art prints, original works of art are more valuable and far more limited in quantity. The restrictions are such that even the wealthiest art collectors can’t hope to see or own any piece they like.
Art prints, on the other hand, are far more accessible to a global audience. There is even an argument to be made that the increased access to art made possible by widely reproduced contemporary art posters and graphic design prints helps to further increase the value and mystique of original works.
6) They Allow Originals to Be Kept Safe
Keeping original pieces out in the open where they could be exposed to sunlight, humidity, and oxidation can ultimately result in the deterioration of the artwork. Art prints provide a practical solution for allowing the enjoyment of the art while also preserving the longevity of original pieces. By displaying prints instead of originals, collectors can keep their valuable pieces safely stored away, protecting them from potential damage caused by environmental factors, improper handling, or unforeseen accidents.
7) Art Prints Facilitate Artistic Experimentation
The print medium allows for virtually unlimited creativity and freedom of expression. Print artists have long been pushing the possibilities of print by combining it with other mediums and art forms. Art collectors, too, have long been repurposing art prints for use in their own creative endeavours, encouraged by the lower cost and inclusivity of the medium.
8) Prints Are a Viable Medium for Emerging Artists
Since the emergence of print, artists have been creating unique art prints that were more accessible than one-off pieces while being no less meaningful. Being able to reach more audiences at a low cost brings down financial risks to artists who would otherwise need to have patrons or take risks producing art without ready buyers. So long as you source your cool art prints from reliable sources, you will be directly supporting artists and the wider art ecosystem.
Art Prints Will Always Be Relevant
Art prints have carved out a distinct place in the art world, offering a range of benefits that cater to both seasoned collectors and budding art enthusiasts. Their enduring popularity may be down to art’s all-encompassing nature and the mediums linked to our analog roots, which resonate in many of us even in today’s digitally transformed world. In any case, as tastes and technology continue to change, we'll see the print medium reinterpreted and retransformed—as it always has.