I recently viewed an article in the Halifax Herald, which showcased the first international printing making biennial. The touring exhibit featured the work of 55 talented individuals. The prints were on display in Halifax until September 30, and then tour Toronto, Winnipeg, Vancouver, Seoul and Beijing. The tour was organized by the Maritime and Atlantic Printmaking Society (MAAPS). As I read through the article I could not help but take exception when coordinator Peter MacWhirter indicated that since wildlife artist Robert Bateman sold mechanically reproduced copies of his art back in 1977 that he undermined the whole industry and damaged the livelihood of printmakers. He indicated that the public got confused about what constituted a signed limited edition print and therefore held all prints at suspect. There is no doubt within the industry that an offset lithograph print is of better quality then a digitally produced copy even when they use archival inks. My argument is the cost to produce a lithograph and the price the artist must charge in order to achieve a profit. In my opinion the higher cost to produce a limited edition lithograph print is an expense that only selected artists can afford to have produced. The consumer will pay a higher cost for the better quality and higher production costs. This is fine and there certainly is a market for these higher end prints. However I would also argue that for special occasions, professional offices, medical buildings, retail business and clients who are not looking to spend much money, mechanically reproduced prints of original works of art may serve this market very cost effectively while still providing a quality product. Artists who would be limited cost wise to showcase their original portraits, landscapes, marine, abstract and impressionist paintings, have an opportunity to distribute their images to people who might choose to purchase this low cost alternative. After all, “limiting prints” for art lovers in my opinion is counter- productive to encouraging aspiring unknown artists to create and distribute their art for everyone to enjoy.

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