Room by Room – the Modern Print

This week on Room by Room with FormFire Glassworks, we move from the realm of original, one-of-a-kind pieces of painting and sculpture to the Modern Print.

Prints can be a more cost-effective way to own artwork because reproductions can be made of the same image. Depending on the artist, an image might be continually reproduced or have only a limited run, often signed and numbered. Prints can be made through a variety of processes: silkscreen (or its cousin, gocco, as seen in the panda and owl images), offset lithography, letterpress (as in the number print), woodcut, or digital, as exemplified by the orange branches, green pod and clover pieces. Any of these types are a way to bring style and color into your interior spaces. Prints can range from whimsical to representational to very abstract, evoking more of a mood that showing an actual item. Spend time picking one that furthers your decorating intent.

Be sure to note the type of printing as well as the materials used. Prints can be made on surfaces from canvas to cotton rag to wood to photo paper. Know what you’re purchasing. If you are buying a digital print of an illustration or digital artwork, be certain that it is printed using pigment inks, so that your image will last and have a crisp look that mimics traditional printing. A standard dye-based ink-jet will not have the same look. When in doubt, contact the artist and ask about their process before you make your purchase. If your item comes unframed, consider having it mounted by a professional. UV-resistant acrylic is available to protect your artwork from sun damage, which can occur quickly in bright light or slowly over time.

The really fun thing about prints is that due to a typically smaller scale, they are easily moved from one area to another. Or you might start a revolving collection in which you bring new pieces out and shelve a few to give the room a fresh look. Prints are a great way to liven up a room.