Art FAQ

www.andythomas.com

Frequently, I get asked questions by new collectors or someone just purchasing a gift for a collector, what some of the terms listed below means. I decided to compile some frequently asked questions to help make it easier to purchase art for all those that may be wondering. If you have any additional questions or confusion about an item when purchasing, leave it in the comments below and I'll be sure to add it to the list!

What does AP mean?

AP refers to Artist Proofs, which go back to the days of hand made presses. The artist would actually crank the crank, print the print and check the colors. If they didn't like the red, they changed it; they made these adjustments until the print was to their liking. They were truly proofs. Today, they are a tradition since technology has made huge changes in the printing industry.

AP's are a limited edition that make up about 10%-15% of the signed and numbered edition of the same image and size. If 350 signed and numbered prints are made in a specific size, only about 35 artist proofs are created for that particular size. Each artist proof is numbered similar to this 20/35AP and signed as well.

What does S/N mean?

S/N refers Signed and Numbered prints, which means exactly that -- they are signed and they are numbered. Each reproduction that is S/N is limited in edition. Each S/N reproduction would look similar to this 20/300 and signed.

Should I purchase an AP or S/N reproduction?

Ultimately the decision is yours, some collectors feel as though an AP print will be more valuable in the long run since not many are produced compared to S/N editions. While that could be true, it also depends on the market at the time.

Is there a difference is quality between AP and S/N reproductions?

No, the quality is exactly the same, created from the same image, same paper and same inks. The only difference is the limited quantity of prints with the AP designation.

What is a Giclee Print?

A Giclee is the printing process used for reproducing a print. Giclee's are individually produced on a special large format printer from a digital scan of existing artwork. They contain bright colors, crisp detail with a high-resolution display.

What is Timeless Edition?

These prints are of an edition, which are signed and sequentially numbered reproductions. They are not limited edition prints, but are numbered in the order that they are produced. Every print will have a different number from each other. They are the same quality as limited edition prints. Example: #24   #25   #26

What is a Large Format Canvas Giclee?

A Large Format Canvas Giclee is something we offer to those of you with large spaces that need to be filled. They are special orders reproduced larger than what is offered on the site. They would be by-quote only depending on the size of the reproduction you would like. Any image on the site can be made to order and some can be made up to 50" high. They are the same quality as the reproductions offered on the site and one of a kind. If you are interested in a quote, you can email orders@andythomas.com.

What is Stretched and What is Rolled Canvas?

Stretching is the process of taking a Rolled Canvas and stretching it over a stretcher bar, thin wooden rails, in which the canvas is stapled to. The canvas is then ready to be framed.

A rolled canvas is a canvas that has not been stretched yet. It ships in a tube, rolled up, and would need to be stretched before framing.

What are the benefits of a Stretched Canvas?

Stretched canvases are ready to be hung, no other work is required, other than choosing a frame of your choice. If you were to buy a Rolled Canvas and have it stretched by a third party or yourself, you could have a higher risk of damage, such as the painting cracking during stretching especially if the person is not a professional. I advise against stretching the canvas yourself, unless you are a professional.

What are the benefits of a Rolled Canvas?

Rolled canvas is priced less than stretched canvas, but keep in mind that a rolled canvas will need to be stretched to frame. It is advisable to have a professional framer stretch the canvas when they are making your frame. If a print is larger than 24x36, it will automatically be shipped rolled due to the high cost of shipping. It's also much safer when the print is larger than 24x36.

Do you offer framing for prints?

At this time, you may only purchase some of the Civil War prints framed. If it's not listed in the product pull down menu, then it isn't an option. You will need to supply your own frame for most of the artwork.