403-292-0360
We use an Epson 9800 printer along with a number of different acid free substrates to choose from, all printed with archival inks.
A Giclée begins with the original art or transparency being digitally photographed or scanned to create a digital file. Special software programs are used in conjunction with calibrated equipment to manipulate color and contrast to achieve the superior color and detail of a Giclée. The image is output to an Epson® Wide Format printer.
Our Epson printer: The canvas and some papers are on a roll (max. 44" wide) which allows us to print large images. This is especially ideal for long, narrow or rectangular pieces. The canvas or paper is fed through the printer while the ink head moves back and forth printing the image onto the substrate. The inks are Epson Ultra Chrome Archival and there are 8 ink tones.
For those wanting to experiment there are endless possibilities open to the artist when working with Giclées. Color, contrast or composition can be altered digitally. Finally, the Giclée can be hand embellished or personalized to create truly unique pieces for each collector. Acrylic paint can be used on canvas (but not oils) and watercolor on paper.
To initiate the printing process we need to capture the image in digital format. Depending on the size and medium of the original this is achieved either by digitally photographing or directly scanning the image. In both cases we use the highest quality processes in order to ensure the digital file is as close to the original as possible and retains the detail in both the darks and the lights and compensates for any cast in the image.
Once the image capture is complete the file is sent to the proofing station where the density and color of the image are adjusted to closely match the original. If the original is not available we will match to another picture supplied for reference. This process is critical to the quality of the reproduction. The better the information we receive for reference, such as an original, the better the results for the final product.
Alternatively, the artist may wish to modify colour, contrast, composition, or to adjust the original image to create a different visual impression from the original. In this case we need this input at the beginning of the proofing process. (Please book a time to ensure we have someone available to work on the image.)
Once proofing is complete we send out 3 or 4 proofs along with a full resolution 6” wide strip of the proposed Giclée to the artist for approval. The artist then selects a proof, signs the back and returns it to us along with a print order. When we receive the print order, we will clean the image and prepare it for printing.
From digital images the process may be slightly different.
Assuming a clean image, the proofing and setup process will be limited to running the required proofs and sizing the image for printing. Please contact us for digital file requirements.