Giclee

This post is for all who are not familiar with the term giclee;. Here is a little background both under an historical as well as technical point of view. The word comes from a California printmaker is response to advances in inkjet technology (namely the Scitex line of proofing machines). Jack Duganne realized that these printers were able to do much more than create proofs for the pre-press industry. The Iris 3047 and the Realist where so advanced in their color and dot rendition that they could handle thick materials such as watercolor paper. At the time (late 80s and early 90s) there was nothing quite like it. Instead of using the term inkjet print, which was not flattering considering the crappy line of many low quality machines, Duganne wanted to differentiate the output made with the high-end Iris. A 3047 model cost more than $100,000. The results were amazing and many artists and photographers looked at this medium as a revoulutionary way to create exquisite prints.Fast forward 20 years; while the Iris is now defunct and considered old technolgy (there is still a reincarnation called Ixia), a new crop of incredibly sophisticated printers made by Epson, McDermid and Canon has reached now heights. In conjunction with super high resolution, these new printer utilize pigmnet inks that have archival ratings of 75+ years. Instead of 4 inks, 6 to 12 color are used and the gamut is also wider.Although there is no set guideline to differentiate a giclee from an inkjet print, here is my take, which is pretty much accepted by most professional shops: First, the use of pro graphics printers; second, the emplyment of archival pigment inks and papers. Third, the skill of the printmaker. Unfortunately the field is also filled with companies and individuals who use printers that cost $99, buy cheap materials made in China and do not have the necessary skills to produce quality. So, how can you tell who is who and what is what? Ask for references. Ask what printers, inks and papers are being used. Would you buy a car without knowing which brand and model you are getting? Don’t make this mistake with giclee prints. Just being told you are buying a glossy canvas print without knowing who makes the canvas is the same. Why? Chinese made canvas costs $80 a roll. US or European made canvas costs twice or three times as much. You get what you pay for.