Why I use fine art paper

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When starting out as an independent artist or purchasing an art print for the first time, the definition of an "art print" can be a little unclear.

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Printing your paintings or drawings with a sales objective requires a first thought about the type of paper you are looking for: because yes, you cannot use the first paper that comes on the shelf of a supermarket...

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My first prints were made with a printer in my town. I presented myself with my drawings, and with the request for a textured and thick paper in order to be able to highlight the traditional aspect of my illustrations.

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For almost a year, I used traditional white 320g Rives paper. The result was really nice, except that the printer stage was too expensive (price/quantity ratio) and risky (shortage of paper, failed prints, poorly done cutting, etc.).

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Then I decided to invest in a printer dedicated to this type of printing. This has several advantages: I only depend on myself and I can manage my stocks on demand.

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on the left, a print on Rives Traditionnelles Blanches 320g, on the right, a print on Hahnemühle German Etching 310g paper.

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The rendering of the illustration is more fluid and less “hatched”. Fine Art paper is also softer! The quality of the paper has changed significantly.

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The use of Fine Art paper allows for a more precise rendering of colors and details. Hence the concept of fine art printing. It’s an elaborate paper, to showcase your creations!

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And as the vast majority of my paintings are made in "traditional" mode, that is to say with paint, it is important to me to be able to represent my work in the most authentic way possible.

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on the left, the original painting, on the right, the print.