• How does Stan begin?

Stan starts each painting by creating a number of small pencil sketches, where he experiments with subject matter and composition. The best of these small drawings will serve as a starting point for an original work of art as the artist transforms the "idea" into the "reality" with all the color and detail his collectors have come to expect.

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WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT LIMITED EDITION PRINTS

• Why the almost universal acceptance of prints?
  From the buyer's standpoint, the limited edition print is a bargain. Modern printing technology, offset printing and related processes, make it economically practical to reproduce copies of original art that are high in quality and reasonable in cost. With the cooperation of artist, color separator and printer, the integrity of these reproductions can be controlled to a high degree of accuracy. With the proper consideration given to materials as well as technique, the end result can be a lasting and faithful compliment to the artist as well as the owner.

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• Why do artists reproduce their work?
  You may have noticed that many established artists issue limited edition prints on a regular basis. For them it makes good business sense. Original paintings are produced singly in what we know to be a slow and arduous process, and the reimbursement for the artist hinges on his ability to find a buyer willing to absorb the time and expense that went into this work, which can be substantial. The limited edition print, although initially expensive, allows the artist's compensation to be spread among many buyers. It can eventually return an amount that, after expenses, still exceeds what could be expected from the sale of a single painting.
  Another important consideration for the artist is that with a volume of prints, his work can reach not only a greater number of customers, but also an entirely new and different market. Further, prints allow the artist to produce fewer paintings of higher quality and to experiment and explore new and different subjects and methods.
  Finally, the sale of limited edition prints, in broadening an individual artist's market, creates a more positive demand for his originals, further enhancing their value.

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• What, exactly, is a limited edition print?
  A limited edition print is a reproduction of an original work that is issued in a predetermined amount. That amount is usually guaranteed by an accompanying Certificate of Authenticity which states the length of the edition along with other pertinent facts. Also, the artist literally numbers and signs individual prints in pencil.

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• Is there a difference in a limited edition print and an original print?
  Definitely. An original print is done in multiple copies but usually pulled by the artist himself. There is no original as such, since the prints themselves are the object of the artist's work. Examples are silkscreen, etching, stone lithography, etc. It is the nature of these methods that no two prints are exactly the same, and that, because of inherent limitations in the processes, runs tend to be shorter. For example, it is not unusual for an original print to be issued in an amount of only 25, and seldom do the numbers exceed three hundred. As a rule, original prints are much more expensive.

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• What should a buyer consider in the purchase of a limited edition print?
  First, there are no firm rules that apply. Limited edition prints are a fairly new concept (when compared with other forms of art), and although most publishers and artists are scrupulously aware of the value of quality and longevity in the execution of their products, some mistakes are made. There are some general guidelines however. Among these are:

aaPaper: In the interest of longevity, it should be neutral ph, and of a substantial weight (thickness). This insures that the work will not "yellow" over the years, and that its body should hang nicely.

aaInks: These should be sunfast and fade resistant, particularly in the reds and yellows.

aaEdition Length: Although this subject is still debated, most knowledgeable people agree that the shorter the edition, the more valuable the individual print. For instance, an edition of 350 prints should be more valuable per copy than an issue of 1500 prints. In any case, it is considered more desirable to have a lower number no matter what the edition length. Print number and edition length (in pencil) should be visible on individual prints. Example: 1/950.

aaArtist's Proofs: Traditionally, artists have set aside proofs that they approve during the printing of the edition. These are sometimes sold or given to patrons or friends who have given support. Instead of numbering, Artist's Proof or AP is indicated on the print in pencil. Because of the limited proofs available (most artists keep less than 1/10th of the edition length as proofs), Artist's Proofs are considered to be more valuable than signed and numbered prints. Sometimes the artist will note the number of Artist's Proofs on the print as "Artist's Proof 6/50".

aaRemarque: Remarque stems from the French word meaning "to mark again". A remarque is usually an original pencil drawing found in the margin outside the print image. An extra cost item.

aaCertificate of Authenticity: A Certificate of Authenticity should accompany each limited edition print. It should include a description of the particular edition, describe papers, inks and printing process, along with other pertinent print information. The certificate should include a guarantee from the artist and/or publisher that all necessary negatives, plates and extra copies and proofs were destroyed - that, in effect, the edition exists only as represented.

aaProduction: The production of a limited edition print is too complicated to describe completely here. Basic steps are:

• How much should a limited edition print cost?
  As earlier discussion indicates, there are many factors involved in the pricing of prints. Some of these are edition length, size of individual prints, and cost of the particular process used, and even the popularity of the artist. Also, whether the print is an Artist's Proof and if it has been remarqued. Most editions you will encounter in this area are done in edition lengths of from 200 or so to as high as 2000 or more. So in an average edition of 1000 or less, prices usually start about $40 and can run past $250.

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• What about framing?
  In most custom frame shops, a simple presentation can cost as much or more than your limited edition print. You'll choose from a diverse assortment of mats and moldings, and the cost can vary dramatically. A reputable framer is always a good choice, one who will not only help with your choice of style and color, but who will care for the preservation of your art and keep the cost within your budget.
  A word of caution on framing: If you value your art and are concerned with its longevity, be sure your framer explains museum mounting. Ask him about acid-free or 100% rag mats or preservation framing. These are protective measures which will assure maximum life for your print by placing only acid-free materials in contact with the print itself. Acid and water damage are your prints worst enemies. Proper framing is your insurance policy.

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• What about hanging your limited edition print?
  Always hang artwork of any kind on dry, interior walls, away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging prints directly under a fluorescent fixture if possible - if not, rotate work periodically. Avoid hanging prints or paintings over fireplaces being used. The backside of all artwork should be checked annually for signs of insect invasion, moisture, mildew and weak hanger wires.
  And above all, enjoy your purchase. Your limited edition print, when properly framed by preservation standards, should not only bring you a lifetime of pleasure, it can be passed down through generations.