Giclees
The
French word Giclee means to spray or squirt. Pronounced (jee-clay),
the process uses incredibly accurate computer controlled jets
to apply ink to watercolor paper, canvas or etching paper. These
unique jets are able to vary the width of the ink steam to as
small as 1/100th the width of human hair. It is the capability
that gives the giclee its beauty. Giclees have a higher resolution
than offset lithographs and the dynamic color range is great.
The giclee process begins with the input stage. A scan of the
original painting or transparency will create a digital file.
The scanning process is critical and requires the most technically
advanced equipment. After the scan is complete, the resulting
file will be entered into the computer, where the file must
be color balanced and adjusted to match the original artwork.
Making the final print match or exceed the original painting
is an art in itself and call for great deal of patience and
skill. This requires the use of a colorist.
The file preparation and proofing takes approximately two weeks.
Watercolor paper, one sheet at a time is attached to the drum.
During printing, the drum spins at approximately 60 mph.
