Artist's proof

Definition

An artist's proof is a special print taken from the same plate or block as the main edition, typically kept aside for the artist's personal use. These proofs are often printed in smaller quantities and can differ slightly from the standard edition, making them more valuable to collectors. They serve as a way for the artist to maintain a personal connection to their work and are sometimes signed and numbered differently than the regular prints.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Artist's proofs are usually marked as 'A.P.' or 'artist's proof' and can be more sought after than standard edition prints due to their limited availability.
2. They may feature variations in color or texture compared to regular prints, highlighting the artist's creative process.
3. An artist typically retains a certain number of proofs for themselves, which can include working proofs that help refine the final image.
4. Artist's proofs can hold significant value in the art market, often fetching higher prices at auctions than numbered editions.
5. The tradition of artist's proofs dates back centuries and reflects the importance of artistic integrity and personal expression in printmaking.

Review Questions

• How do artist's proofs differ from standard edition prints, and why might they be more valuable?
  • Artist's proofs differ from standard edition prints primarily in their limited quantity and unique characteristics, often resulting in variations in color or texture. They are not included in the total number of prints issued in an edition, making them rarer. This rarity, combined with the fact that they are sometimes signed and numbered differently by the artist, contributes to their higher value among collectors who seek exclusive pieces.
• Discuss the role of artist's proofs in the printmaking process and how they impact an artist's relationship with their work.
  • Artist's proofs play a crucial role in the printmaking process as they allow artists to evaluate their work before finalizing an edition. By keeping these special prints for themselves, artists create a personal connection with their art, reflecting on the creative journey behind each piece. This practice helps ensure that the final edition meets their standards while also allowing them to retain select impressions that may hold sentimental or artistic significance.
• Evaluate how the concept of artist's proofs relates to broader trends in contemporary art collecting and valuation.
  • The concept of artist's proofs is increasingly relevant in contemporary art collecting, as collectors seek unique pieces that offer insights into an artist's process. The value placed on artist's proofs can reflect broader trends in the art market, where rarity and provenance significantly influence prices. As collectors become more educated about printmaking techniques and the significance of artist's proofs, these works gain status not only as artistic expressions but also as investments that capture a moment in an artist’s evolving practice.

Related terms

Edition: A specific number of prints produced from the same plate or block, usually signed and numbered by the artist.

Monoprint: A unique print created by applying ink or paint to a surface, resulting in a one-of-a-kind image that cannot be replicated.

Proofing: The process of printing trial impressions to check quality, color, and detail before producing the final edition.