What is an artist proof?In general, an artist's proof is a print that is exactly the same as an s/n print. What distinguishes it from another print in the edition is a handwritten inscription by the artist that reads, "artist's proof" or "AP." This writing can be in the bottom margin, in the left-hand corner or even following the artist's signature. Artist's proofs can be numbered, but often they are not. The number of artist's proofs usually varies from five to twenty percent of the edition. For instance, if a publisher uses the 20 per cent figure and has 200 prints in the edition, he would have an additional 20 artists proofs. The concept of the artist's proof originates from the early 20th century when artists were remunerated for their work by receiving lodging, living expenses, studio time, assistants, supplies, paper and a number of prints from the publisher, according to the International Fine Print Dealers Association. (IFPDA). Those prints were marked as "Artist's Proofs." Though artists are paid today they still want a souvenir of the project. But today, artist's proofs don't necessarily go to the artists. When artists and publishers enter into an agreement, they y negotiate the artist's fee as well as the number and kind of prints the artist will receive. The artists may take some of the artist's proofs or or may take some of the regular signed and numbered prints, leaving the artist's proofs to the publisher. Or, artists may take some of the prints or proofs and ask the publisher to sell the remaining prints in his or her allotment. Though an artist's proof is no different and is no more valuable than the rest of the edition, customers continue to ask for them.
|
