Original vs. Print: A Collector’s Guide
- Holly Kendall
- Mar 23
- 5 min read
I know firsthand the excitement, and sometimes the dilemma, of choosing between an original artwork and a print. There’s something magical about owning an original, feeling the texture of the paint and knowing it’s the only one of its kind. But high-quality prints also have their place, making art more accessible without sacrificing beauty. So how do you decide which is right for you? In this guide, I’ll share my insights on the key differences, the value of each, and what to consider when building your collection.
At a recent art fair, I sold two of my original paintings, pieces I had poured countless hours, love, and energy into. It was an emotional exchange, knowing that the collector was taking home something truly one of a kind—something that no one else in the world would ever own. That’s the beauty of an original. You get not just the artwork itself but the texture of the brushstrokes, the scent of the paint, and the physical presence of the artist’s hand in every detail. There’s an energy in originals that prints, no matter how high-quality, simply can’t replicate.
Yet, at that same fair, I found myself drawn to a limited-edition print by an artist who I love, and while an original was out of my price range, the print allowed me to bring her artistry into my home in an accessible way. And that’s the beauty of prints—they make art more attainable. A well-made print still carries the essence of the original, and if it’s a limited edition, should gain value over time.
So, how do you decide between an original and a print? It all comes down to your budget, personal connection to the piece, and what you’re looking for in your collection. To help you make the right choice, here are my top tips on the value, quality, and long-term benefits of both options.
Tip #1 – Consider the Emotional & Investment Value
There’s something special about owning an original artwork—it’s a one-of-a-kind piece, infused with the artist’s energy, process, and personal touch. Originals often appreciate in value, especially if the artist’s reputation grows. If you’re looking for a unique investment piece or want to feel truly connected to an artist’s work, an original might be the way to go.
I still remember the moment I sold my first original painting - it was bittersweet, knowing I’d never see it again. But seeing the collector’s happiness made it all worth it. That’s what makes an original so powerful.
Tip #2 – Understand the Value of Limited Edition Prints
Not everyone has the budget for an original, and that’s where high-quality, limited edition prints come in. Limited runs (e.g., editions of 50 or 100) can hold or increase in value, especially when signed and numbered by the artist. When looking at prints, consider:
Edition size (the smaller, the rarer)
Print quality (archival paper or canvas for longevity)
Artist reputation (rising stars or established names can add value)
I recently purchased a limited-edition print by an artist I adore but couldn’t have afforded as an original. Prints like these allow collectors to access incredible art while still owning something exclusive. Likewise, my black cockatoo prints, like We Are Golden, give collectors a chance to own my artwork at a more accessible price point while still capturing the spirit of these incredible birds.
What Does Giclée Print Mean?
Giclée (pronounced "zhee-clay") is a French term that means "to spray" and refers to a printing process that uses high-quality inkjet printers to create stunning reproductions of artwork. Giclée prints are known for their vivid colors, sharp details, and rich tonal range. The process involves spraying microscopic droplets of ink onto premium paper or canvas, ensuring that the image is as true to the original as possible. It’s widely regarded as one of the most sophisticated and precise methods for reproducing fine art.
What Does "Archival" and "Museum-Grade" Mean?
When we refer to a print as archival-quality or museum-grade, we’re talking about materials that are designed to last for decades, if not centuries, without fading, yellowing, or deteriorating.
Archival refers to materials—whether paper, canvas, or ink—that meet high standards for longevity and durability. These materials are acid-free and resistant to environmental factors like UV light, moisture, and air pollutants.
Museum-grade refers to the highest-quality, top-tier materials, typically used in the preservation of artwork in museums. Museum-grade ink, for example, is made from pigments that are resistant to fading, ensuring that your print will retain its original vibrancy for years to come.
These terms guarantee that the print you purchase will look as beautiful years from now as it does when it’s first framed and displayed.
Tip #3 – Know the Difference Between Open and Limited Editions
When shopping for prints, be mindful of open editions versus limited editions.
Limited edition prints are numbered, signed, and won’t be reproduced beyond the stated quantity—making them more valuable.
Open edition prints are unlimited and mass-produced, meaning they hold little investment value but are great for enjoying artwork affordably.
If you’re a serious collector, stick to limited editions for long-term value. If you’re buying purely for decoration, an open edition is a budget-friendly option.
Many of my collectors have started with a black cockatoo limited edition print before later investing in an original. It’s a great way to experience an artist’s work before committing to a larger purchase.
Tip #4 – Quality Matters: My Search for the Perfect Print
When I first decided to offer limited edition prints, I spent years testing different businesses who provided art scanning, photography, and printing to ensure my prints were of the absolute highest quality. I wanted collectors to feel the same depth, detail, and richness in a print as they would in an original. The result? My prints are so meticulously reproduced that it's hard to tell the difference. But should you buy a stretched canvas print or a fine art paper print? Choosing between stretched canvas and fine art paper prints comes down to personal preference and how you want to display your artwork. If you love the idea of a ready-to-hang, textured piece that has the same feel as the original, a stretched canvas print might be the perfect choice. However, if you prefer a more traditional look with the option to customize your framing, fine art paper prints offer flexibility and exquisite detail.
Both options are fantastic ways to enjoy art, especially when printed with Giclée techniques and archival-quality materials.
Tip #5 – Buy What You Love
Whether you’re investing in an original artwork or a fine art print, the most important factor is that you love what you’re buying. Art should bring you joy every time you look at it. But if you’re also considering value appreciation, research the artist’s trajectory, their edition sizes, and the print quality.
If you’re new to collecting, start with limited edition prints from emerging artists and, as your budget grows, invest in originals that truly speak to you. Maybe it’s a black cockatoo painting that reminds you of the wild beauty of these birds or a kookaburra artwork that captures their cheeky personality—whatever it is, let it resonate with you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing between an original artwork and a limited edition print depends on your budget, goals, and connection to the piece. Originals are one-of-a-kind treasures, which hold the artists energy, while high-quality prints offer accessibility and potential investment value. Whichever you choose, collecting art should be a rewarding and personal experience.
👉 Thinking about starting or expanding your collection? Check out my available originals and limited edition prints of black cockatoos, kookaburras, and more here Home | Holly Kendall Artist or get in touch to discuss the perfect piece for your space!
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