THE GICLÉE: THE TOP IN FINE ART REPRODUCTION!
Giclée is the generic term used throughout the world to characterize an art print on a high definition, large format inkjet printer. This word perfectly describes the principle used to deposit the ink in the form of fine droplets diffused by inkjet printers. Today the giclée defines the very high quality digital reproduction of an original painting.
THE ART OF REPRODUCING AN ORIGINAL PAINTING
Giclée printing can be done on different mediums such as artist canvas, fine art paper, etc. The giclée on canvas is of particular interest to artists, because it allows them to reproduce their works very faithfully, very close to the colours of the original painting. Naturally, the original remains a unique work, because the giclée process does not make it possible to render the relief of the painting.
COLLABORATION BETWEEN ARTISTS AND PRINTER
Monique and Gisèle Benoit entrusted photographer Normand Ouellet with the delicate mission of faithfully reproducing their works. After approving a reference proof, the artists sign and number limited editions, like the photolithographies of yesteryear that giclées are gradually replacing. The giclées on canvas are mounted and stretched on wooden frames, then varnished like a traditional painting.
A WORK OF EXPERTS
In summary, the production of a giclée lies in the mastery of computerized technologies, the know-how of the master printer and the complicity that unites him to the artists with whom he works in close collaboration. The giclée being considered as a work of art, the gallery gives a certificate of authenticity to the buyer when making the acquisition.
The first step consists of taking digital shots, using very high definition cameras (39 million pixels), of the original artworks in a professional studio. The files are then processed on screen by the expert eye of a professional who corrects the chroma, light and contrast of the digital images in order to adapt his file to the performance of the printer. The next step is to print in high resolution (1440 dpi) on the latest generation large format digital printers. The printing of each giclée is launched one by one and controlled one by one.
Throughout the colour adjustment process, the original painting serves as the printer's constant guide. Printing dozens of test banners is often necessary to meet artist and printer requirements.
In this photo, Gisèle Benoit approves with her signature the reference proof of the giclée Kings at rest, under the watchful eye of Normand Ouellet, photographer and specialist in inkjet printing.
