What are “Giclée” art prints?

“Giclee” art prints are high-quality pieces of art that are often found in museums. Artists and gallery owners use the term “giclée” to refer to this type of artwork, which is richer and more attractive than regular art prints or posters.

The term “Giclee” [pronounced zhee-clay] comes from a French word meaning “to spray,” which is exactly what an inkjet printer does when creating an image on paper. High-resolution images on photographic paper created by an inkjet printer are called digital pigment printing.

To simplify this technical jargon and to distinguish these high-quality reproductions from regular prints and posters, the term “Giclée” was coined to describe them. Since giclée prints are found in many art museums, the terms “giclée art prints” and “museum art prints” are often used interchangeably.

What is the difference between Giclee and regular prints and posters?

Giclée prints are created on high quality photographic or archival paper using a high end premium inkjet printer. They are produced one at a time to produce a rich and refined museum-quality image that lasts 100 years under glass.

The regular prints and posters you see online and in some retail stores use much cheaper paper and are produced in large quantities. They are “sealed”, usually in quantities of 10,000 or more pieces per run. Many of these prints are made in China and last around 5 years, after which they begin to turn yellow and their colors fade.

As you get larger sizes of 16″ x 20″ or more, you can really see the difference in quality between giclee and regular prints and posters. From a distance our eyes compensate for this, however when you get up close and compare them side by side you can instantly see the magnificent superiority of a giclée. In fact, when you look closely at a normal print or poster, you will see that the image is blurred and details are lost. Whereas a giclée print reveals a captivating level of detail, similar to that of a high resolution photograph.

Why do Giclée prints cost more than regular prints and posters?

Giclée prints cost more than regular prints and posters because of the way they are made. Giclée prints are produced one at a time by hand, using the best inkjet printers and quality high resolution photo paper. Regular art prints and posters are mass produced using machines that stamp image after image onto cheap paper that begins to deteriorate in 5 years or less.

Who are Giclée prints for?

Giclée prints are for people with a discerning eye who value fine art and museum-quality craftsmanship. They offer vibrancy and charm for a lifetime, whether placed in your beautiful home or professional office. Those who own giclée art prints delight in their exquisite beauty and richness of detail.

While Giclée art prints offer unmatched quality, their prices remain affordable. A beautiful 16″ x 20″ custom giclee art print is only $100-$150, unframed, and can be purchased online from a reputable company like Art Prints America.