Art 101: Original vs. Print

Walk into any gallery, and you’ll likely see a mix of originals and prints — but what exactly is the difference, and why should you care as a collector?

Let’s break it down.

Original Artwork

An original is the one-of-a-kind piece that came directly from the artist’s hand. It may be an oil painting, a watercolor, a mixed media piece — but there’s only one. You’ll see brushstrokes, texture, and sometimes even the artist’s fingerprints. Owning an original means owning the full depth of that creative moment. It’s deeply personal, and for many collectors, that’s where the magic is.

Limited Edition Prints

These are high-quality reproductions of original artworks, created in a controlled, signed-and-numbered series. The artist often works closely with a printer to approve every detail. Once the edition is complete — say, 1 of 50 — no more will be made. These can be more affordable entry points for collectors and still hold value, especially when the artist is established or rising.

Open Edition Prints & Giclées

“Giclée” refers to the printing method — typically archival inkjet on fine art paper or canvas. Open edition means there’s no set limit on how many are produced. While giclées can be stunning and high quality, they’re typically less valuable in the long term because of their reproducibility. That doesn’t mean they aren’t worth collecting — they just belong in a different category.

So… Which One Should You Buy?

It depends on what you’re looking for. Want a one-of-a-kind showstopper? Go for the original. Looking to support a favorite artist at a lower price point? A limited edition print is a solid investment. Just want something beautiful that fits your space and style? A giclée might be perfect.

Whatever you choose, make sure you love it. Because in the end, collecting art is about connection — not just value.