A work of art is generally considered original when it is created by the artist himself, and there are no exact copies or reproductions of the work.
This may include paintings, sculptures, drawings or other forms of art that are created by the artist as a unique creation and that are not mass produced or made in a large number of copies.
Although the artwork may have been created using different techniques or materials, it will be considered original as long as it is the only one of its kind and there are no other identical copies or reproductions of it.
It is worth noting that some artists can also create limited editions of their works, for example in the form of serigraphs or lithographs. These limited editions are still originals because each copy is numbered and signed by the artist and is considered unique in itself, although they may be made in multiple copies.
When is the artwork a reproduction?
An art print is usually considered a reproduction when it is made in a larger number of copies, usually using a printing method such as lithography, serigraphy or offset printing.
When the artwork is printed in such a technique, it will be possible to make several identical copies of the original work. Although each copy may be of high quality and carefully executed, they are considered reproductions or copies of the original work because they are mass-produced and not unique in themselves.
However, it is also possible to create limited editions of works of art in printing methods such as lithography or serigraphy, where the edition is limited to a specific number and each copy is numbered and signed by the artist. These prints are considered works of art in their own right and can be very valuable and sought after by art collectors.
Limited or Open Edition
Open edition art prints can be considered reproductions. Open edition means that there is no limit to the number of copies that can be printed, and thus there can be many identical copies of the same artwork made.
Although each individual copy of the art print may be of high quality and carefully executed, they will still be reproductions or copies of the original work because they are mass produced and not unique in themselves.
It's worth noting that open edition art prints can be a more affordable way to get your hands on artwork by a favorite artist, and they can make nice decorative items for your home or office. However, if you are looking for a unique piece of art that will increase in value over time, you may want to invest in a limited edition or original art piece.