FAQs - Cygnet Graphics Ltd | Pencil Drawings by Kelli Swan

FAQ's

1. What is a Limited Edition Reproduction?

A Limited Edition Reproduction refers to a set number of replicas of a work of art, of which the plate, mold, or die is destroyed or mutilated after the desired number of copies has been made. The practice of limiting editions and numbering proofs originated with early printing methods, in which the quality of the proofs declined as the plates began to show evidence of wear. By thus limiting an edition to first-rate examples of an artist's work, the artist protected both his or her artistic integrity and the value of the work to the collector. Editions are often limited now for financial reasons. By ensuring the relative rarity of the artist's work, he or she increases its value. (Two-dimensional reproductions are often referred to as prints, and the terms will be used here interchangeably. This is not to be confused with the “original print-making” process where the artist actually hand-creates each print.) Each print from the edition is signed and numbered by the artist for authenticity. In addition to the fixed number of edition prints, there may also exist “AP” prints and “HC” prints. AP prints refer to Artist Proofs. Artist Proofs also date back to early printing methods. These are the first pulls off the press, used to determine ink coverage and other quality factors. As they are the first pieces to be printed, they are generally considered to be more valuable. AP prints are signed and numbered separately from the main edition. HC prints, or Hors De Commerce (not for trade) prints, are marked by the artist as prints to be used for business practice: such as samples, display only, etc. Occasionally there are also PP or Printers Proofs. These refer to very few proofs which are given to the printer responsible for printing the work.

2. What is a copyright?

A copyright is a form of intellectual property. In the case of visual arts, it pertains to the artwork created by an artist. It is separate and distinct from the artwork itself. In other words, purchase of any artwork, including original work, does not include the transfer of copyright, unless specifically stated in writing. In most cases, the artist retains the right to reproduce the image(s) in other mediums. Ownership of copyright is established upon the artist's completion of the work. Registration of the copyright with the Library of Congress is not required for ownership, but is required to pursue any legal action(s).

3. What is offset lithography?

This is a commercial printing process. It involves separated films, etched plates, and specialized printing presses. Offset Lithography is one of the ways in which the reproductions from Cygnet Graphics Ltd. are produced. Other methods include high-end/photo-quality, digital printers using archival inks.

4. What does “acid-free paper” mean?

These are papers with a 7 pH, or very close to 7 pH. Below 6.5 pH or above 8.5 pH is not considered acid-free. Acid-free materials are more permanent and less likely to experience acid migration (to discolor, or to deteriorate other materials with which they come in contact.) The acid in many papers is what causes them to yellow and/or discolor over time. Newspaper is a good example. Cygnet Graphics Ltd uses only high quality, acid-free paper for all limited edition reproductions.

5. What is “color-tinting?”

Color-tinting refers to the process of adding color highlights to black & white photographs or black & white reproductions. Many Cygnet Graphics Ltd. limited editions are available with color-tinting. The particular process used involves the application of water color(s) applied with a brush and/or pastel color(s) applied with a cloth, or color added via electronic means to a digital art file. Note that any color-tinted prints are part of the same edition and not a separate edition. In other words, if print #43 is sold as a color-tinted print, no other print #43 of the same image and size exists.

6. Why the name “Cygnet Graphics?”

Cygnet Graphics is the company through which I, Kelli Swan, sell my work. “Cygnet” is the Latin word for young swan. “Graphics,” refers to “visual art that is written, printed, drawn or engraved.” Thus, Cygnet Graphics Ltd. was born. “Cygnet” is also my pen name used ... on original artwork and signed prints.