A contemporary fine art reproduction medium that combines cutting edge ink technology, 150+ year archival media and precise scanning and proofing. Andrei’s giclee limited editions are some of the closest reproductions of original artwork by any contemporary artist today. Derived from the French language and the literal translation of the word ‘giclee’ means “to spray ink.” Adopted by modern large format printers, the process involves using advanced computerized print heads that can achieve 1440 pixels per square inch (PPI). In layman's terms, that is detail that cannot even be discerned by the human eye (Fun Fact: a person with 20/20 vision can see 876 ppi at a distance of 4 inches a number that gets smaller the further the distance*).
Resolution is incredibly important to reproducing exquisite fine art. Hence, before the artwork is even reproduced comes the most daunting, the most important and even the most time consuming task of scanning and proofing reproductions to the original artwork. The most common way artists today digitize their artwork is obviously photography. Either analog slides that are scanned or a digital camera. Although most cameras today are capable of capturing a staggering level of detail via high megapixel count, even with the smartphone in your pocket, they are not capable of editing color and detail with precision. This is because the lens and sensor or film recording the photograph is from a further distance away from the original work the documentation loses information. That is why to get the most accurate recording of original art is to get up close and personal. Thus, utilizing a large format flatbed scanner. The same scanners are used to archive masterpieces in museums around the world and allows the artist to make the most subtle adjustments to his reproductions without compromising image quality.
Andrei Protsouk is partnered with a professional team of scanning experts that use some of the most advanced large format glass scanners in the industry. These scan all his work true to size; capturing not only the most precise colors but detail as well. Andrei then proofs every print personally ensuring it captures the true essence of each original in color, detail and essence. Therefore, Andrei’s reproductions are the most precise, technologically advanced and true to the original in the art industry today. This ensures that each print has the original artist’s touch and often appreciates in value over time.
The video below shows the process from the conception of the original artwork to scanning and proofing limited editions.
From Large to Small: Hand Embellishment and Giclee Enhancement
After each print is reproduced it goes into a rigorous and involved hand embellishment process by the artist. Using ultra-violet protected acrylic mediums Andrei enhances his prints to even further bring the reproduction to life with texture and even sometimes oil paint. This process ensures that each reproduction is truly one-of-a-kind and includes the artists involvement in every piece. Lastly, before each piece is shipped, they are all signed and numbered on the front and back. This process is applied to even the smallest open edition giclee on wood that retails for $100.00; where the print is adhered to a fine piece of birch plywood. Andrei takes pride in the quality and attention to detail in his work and wants even the most casual collector to behold something that is a unique and special creation.
Andrei's hand painted frames are original pieces of art on their own. Each one is uniquely designed for each original or limited edition. It is a perfect way to own an original even when you collect his limited editions.