Artwork Basics & FAQ

 

Limited Edition Print

The majority of the prints we offer are classified as Limited Edition, meaning the print belongs to a unique set of identical prints which are individually numbered in succession and signed by the artist in pencil. The total number of prints is fixed or "limited" by the artist who supervises the printing. All additional prints will have been destroyed and no additional prints will be produced. The limited nature of these prints helps insure value through limited availability which appreciates over time.

 

Artist Proof

Artist Proofs are authorized by the artist in addition to the limited signed and numbered edition. They are intended for the artist's personal use and it is typical to reserve approximately ten percent of an edition as artist's proofs, although this number can be lower or higher. The total size of a limited edition art edition consists of the signed and numbered prints plus all outstanding proofs. If a set of proofs consists of more than one print, numbers are inscribed to indicate the number of the prints within the total number of the particular type of proof, (e.g., AP 5/20 means the fifth print in a set of twenty identical prints authorized as artist proofs). Proofs are generally signed by the artist as validation of the prints. When Artist Proofs are made available for sale, they typically command a higher price, because as such, they are extremely rare and unique.

Co-Signatures

In addition, many of our limited addition prints are Co-signed by the aviators who made history in the prints depicted.  A fine limited edition aviation art print, also signed by some of the greatest living and deceased legends of aviation history ensures undeniable additional value to each print making it a true aviation artifact that you can own and enjoy. The original signatures available on our limited edition prints include Chuck Yeager, Pappy Boyington, Adolf Galland, Eric Hartmann and hundreds of other great aviation pioneers, innovators and combat veterans.   

 
Remarque

A Remarque is typically a small original sketch, related to the larger image, in the margin of an art print created by the artist. This is a significant enhancement to the print making it especially unique and valuable

Open Edition

Open Edition prints are a series of prints in an art edition that has an unlimited number of copies. Some of open editions are signed individually by the artist, while some are not.  Open editions are typically lower cost and when the edition is sold out, the publisher has the ability to reproduce additional prints as needed.

Giclée

A Giclée is a special computerized reproduction technique in which the image and topography are generated from a digital file and printed by a special ink jet printer, using ink, acrylic or oil paints. Giclée printing offers one of the highest degree of accuracy and richness of color available in any reproduction techniques.

Canvas Transfer

Canvas Transfers are reproductions on canvas, instead of paper, which is created by a process such as serigraphy, photomechanical or giclée printing. Some processes can even recreate the texture, brush strokes and aged appearance of the original work.

Handling
 

Always take special care when handling your prints. Art prints are very delicate and rough handling can crease or dent the paper. Fingerprints can permanently damage the print surface.

 

Storing Unframed Prints
 

If you are not displaying your print right away, be sure to store them in safe place under the proper conditions. A dark setting with a steady temperature below 70 degrees Fahrenheit and a relative humidity with a high of 50 percent and a low of 30 percent is ideal. Prints should be stored flat in protective folders, boxes or drawers made from acid-free, archival quality materials.

 

Displaying Your Collection

Signed and numbered aviation fine art prints are an investment that will appreciate in value over time while providing years of enjoyment and pride of ownership.  For the best long term preservation of your investment, we recommend using archival quality mat boards that are acid-free and when farming your print. These mats, known as acid-free board, museum board, conservation board or 100% rag board are available in many colors and fabrics and will help to preserve your print.

Choosing a location to display your print is equally important.  All light is damaging, and causes irreversible harm that accumulates with exposure. Ultraviolet light (UV), which is found in sunlight, is the most damaging.  The American Institute for Conservation also warns that UV light it also present in artificial lights such as fluorescent and metal halogen lamps. We recommend avoiding the brightest spot in the house when hanging your prints.

You will also need to protect your print from the threat of heat and humidity. Most importantly, don't store prints in attics, basements or garages, and never hang them in bathrooms or over fireplaces. Air conditioning, humidifiers, and dehumidifiers can help regulate the environment in your home or workplace.