Common Art Terms Explained: A Beginner’s Guide to Art Terminology
Explore essential art terminology for collectors.
Knowing what common art terms mean helps buyers compare quality, understand pricing, and make informed decisions before purchasing artwork.
This guide explains common art terms in simple language, making it easier to shop confidently and avoid confusion.
Common Art Terms Explained:
Original Artwork
Original artwork is a one-of-a-kind piece created directly by the artist. Because no copies exist, original artwork is typically more valuable than prints and reproductions. You can find Andy Thomas originals directly on his website. For originals: click here.
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Limited Edition Print
A limited-edition print is a reproduction of an artwork that is produced in a fixed quantity. Once all copies are sold, no additional prints are made. Limited editions often hold more value than open editions due to their scarcity.
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Open Edition Print
An open edition print has no limit on the number of copies produced. These prints are generally more affordable and widely available, making them a popular choice for home décor.
Timeless Edition Print
Similar to open editions, our Timeless edition prints are numbered as they are made. The series goes on forever. You won't see Timeless Editions when buying other artists artwork, other than Andy Thomas, as it is a series made just for his art by his publisher.
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Giclée Print
A giclée print is a high-quality art reproduction created using archival inks and professional inkjet printers. Giclée prints are known for their color accuracy, detail, and longevity.
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Canvas Print
A canvas print is artwork printed directly onto canvas material. Canvas prints can be stretched over a frame or displayed in a traditional frame, offering a textured, gallery-style appearance.
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Paper Print
A paper print is artwork printed on fine art paper. The paper type can vary and may include matte, glossy, or textured finishes. High-quality paper prints often use archival materials to prevent fading.
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Archival Ink
Archival ink refers to inks designed to resist fading over time. Artwork printed with archival inks maintains its color and quality much longer than standard inks.
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Framed Artwork
Framed artwork includes a frame as part of the presentation. Frames can protect the artwork and enhance its appearance, depending on the style and materials used.
Plein Air Framing is a simple unembellished frame we offer, available in 3 color choices: black, gallery bronze, and gold, for our canvas prints. We offer most sizes. Paper prints are also not available for framing as we do not want to risk glass breaking in transit. Framing is only available a the time of the canvas purchase. We do not ship frames individually. All our frames come with an elegant name plaque on the front that will feature the title of the print, along with the artist's name.
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Rolled Artwork
Rolled canvas artwork is unstretched and unframed artwork shipped in a tube, allowing buyers to choose framing options that best match their space or décor style. These must go to a framing shop to be stretched and framed. Paper Prints also come rolled in a tube but can be framed directly by the buyer. Note with rolled canvas: I've had customers say to me, "The title is upside down on my canvas, on the border!" The white border around your canvas will be stretched and stapled to wooden rails. Once stretched, it will be upright on the back of your canvas.
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Stretched Artwork
Stretched artwork refers to a canvas that is ready for framing. When purchasing a canvas, it needs to be stretched over wooden stretcher rails to prepare for framing.
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Reproduction
A reproduction is a copy of an original artwork. Reproductions can vary widely in quality, depending on the printing method, materials, and sourcing.
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Licensed Artwork
Licensed artwork is reproduced with permission from the artist or copyright holder. Purchasing licensed art ensures the artwork is authentic and ethically sourced. All of our products on our site are considered licensed artwork and can only be found here.
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Counterfeit Artwork
Counterfeit artwork refers to unauthorized reproductions, often created using stolen images without the artist’s consent. These pieces are commonly mass-produced, low resolution, and lack quality control. Buying from a reputable seller helps ensure artwork is authentic and properly licensed.
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S/N vs AP
Counterfeit artwork refers to unauthorized reproductions, often created using stolen images without the artist’s consent. These pieces are commonly mass-produced, low resolution, and lack quality control. Buying from a reputable seller helps ensure artwork is authentic and properly licensed.
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Large Format Canvas Giclee
Large Format Canvas Giclee is any canvas print reproduced in a size larger than what is available currently in the respective limited-edition series. We can also reproduce large formats of any Andy Thomas image that may not currently be offered as a reproduction yet. These are special orders; custom made and considered an open edition. They will be signed but not numbered. If you have a favorite image that you'd like to own in a larger size, email us at andythomasdesigns@gmail.com for a quote.
Why Understanding Art Terms Matters When Buying Art Online
Knowing basic art terminology helps buyers understand the difference between original artwork, licensed prints, and mass-produced reproductions. Clear definitions make it easier to compare pricing, quality, and authenticity — and help avoid misleading listings or counterfeit artwork.
For buyers shopping online, understanding these terms builds confidence and ensures a better overall experience.
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Related Reading
If you’re new to buying artwork online, read our guide on how to buy wall art online without overpaying to learn how to avoid quality and pricing mistakes.