If you are considering investing in art, you may have considered investing in art prints. It is important to do your research before investing in art and determine if investing in art prints is the right decision for you.
But what exactly is an art print? Do you opt for a limited edition or a signed print? And more importantly: how much is art print worth?
This is what we will explore in this blog. Read on to learn more about art prints and determine whether they are a worthwhile investment.
What is art print?
Art prints are reproductions of an original work of art. There are several methods and tools used to create art prints; all of which can affect the value of the print.
Typical,Art printare made on canvas or premium paper, often using inkjet printers. Original print
Original prints are works of art printed by hand by artists. An original print has more value than other prints.
Prints can be reproduced, while original art is unique. Original works of art often have a different texture due to the tools used to create the art, for example brushes and rollers. This is unique and tells a story. However, art prints do not have this texture; instead, they have a smooth, flat surface.
Prints are often made by the artist, but can also be made by others, under the artist's supervision. In 2009, Banksy collaborated with the printing company Pictures on Walls to publish his prints.
Art prints are ideal for art collectors and art investors who want to resell the artwork. It is possible to find prints that increase in value without spending a lot of money, whether at an art auction, art fair or art gallery.
Although not unique, they are often considered original works of art, just like paintings and drawings. This is because they are available in editions and limited editions.
Signed and unsigned prints
When purchasing art prints you often have a choice between signed prints and unsigned art prints. The general rule of thumb is that if a print is signed by the artist, it will be much more valuable.
A signed print refers to a finished small print with the artist's signature. You expect a signed print to be signed by hand and not via mechanical means of reproduction.
Art collectors and art investors are generally more attracted to signed prints than unsigned prints because they sell for more on the art market.
Limited edition print
Limited edition art prints have a set number of prints available. Because they are limited, they are often in higher demand, ultimately increasing the overall value of the print.
Smaller editions will have more value than larger editions due to higher demand. They are usually numbered. For example, an print from a set of 100 editions might be labeled "5/100". This means that the buyer is aware of the number on the print together with the size of the edition.
You may come across 'open edition' prints when browsing the art market. These prints know no bounds – and while they can still sell for thousands of pounds, they are usually worth significantly less than limited editions.
Artist proves
Artist proofs are typically the result of test prints made by the artist to check that the quality of the larger print is as high as expected.
Often artists release a small number of artist proofs - usually between 10 and 20 signed, limited edition prints.
They are often more valuable than limited edition signed prints. This is because they usually have unique features found in original art.
How much are art prints worth?
There are many factors that can determine the value of art prints - for example how many prints the edition consists of, the artist, the provenance, whether or not it is signed and of course the quality of the work. For example, a print with torn edges is likely to have less value than a pristine art print.
Banksy prints are a great investment opportunity; limited edition signed Banksy prints can sell for anywhere from £3,000 to more than £800,000 at auction.
Warholprints can also be sold at auction for staggering prices. A Giclée Warhol print can sell for around £2,000 – often much more. However, this depends on demand, the number of prints in the print run and many other factors. Check out this blog to learn somethinginteresting facts about Warhol's art.
INPicassoprints can sell for as much as $5 million at auction, while other, lesser-known prints can sell for as little as $1,000.
Ultimately, art prints are a good investment. They often have a higher residual value – higher than intangible assets. The art market is resistant to economic uncertainty and remains stable in difficult times. This means you can always sell your art prints for a profit.
How to find valuable art prints
Navigating the art market can be difficult: finding the right artists to invest in and determining which art prints are valuable and which are not.
Many people manage to find limited edition art prints at art auctions. At art auctions you can usually only find artsecondary art market. At an art auction, be prepared to pay the buyer's premium. This may depend on the auction, the artwork and the seller.
Art galleries are a great place to find art prints to buy and invest in; Not only can you view the art up close, but you can also receive expert advice.
At Grove Gallery we have art advisors on hand to help you find the right art prints to invest in. As well as advice on the art world, we can also help you sell your art further down the line. On average we can help you generate between 8% and 12% profitart investmentPer year.
Visit our London art gallery today to discover the art we have on display or contact us on 020 8103 4905. Our friendly team are on hand to answer any questions you may have about art prints.
