painting vs. print
what is the difference between an original painting and a limited edition print? and what makes an artist proof so special?
find the answers to all your questions about originals, framed and matted prints, open-edition releases, commissions and more!
original paintings
an original painting by Nicole Ann is a one-of-a-kind artwork, hand-painted with the finest oils and acrylics. it is the initial, unique, and irreplaceable masterpiece rather than a reproduction or print. furthering uniqueness, it features visible brushstrokes, texture, and physical, tangible depth, making it a stunning display.
these paintings on cotton canvas come signed on both the front and back, are titled, dated and numbered (1 of 1) and come paired with a certificate of authenticity.
artist proofs
an artist's proof (AP) is a high-quality, limited-run print outside of the main numbered edition. used to verify print accuracy, they are often (but not always) identical to the final prints. Nicole Ann's AP prints come framed, signed, titled, and numbered on the front of the mat (not pictured).
because the runs are much smaller and are ranged in availability, they hold a higher value due to their scarcity and direct association with the artist's creation process.
limited framed prints
a limited framed print is a high-quality reproduction of an artwork produced in a set, small quantity. each print comes paired with a certificate of authenticity that is numbered and signed by the artist and comes matted & framed in a sleek black, high quality frame affixed with a hanging wire for easy display.
once the predetermined limit (e.g., 125 or 250) is reached, no further copies are created, ensuring rarity and higher value.
matted prints
a matted print of Nicole Ann's artwork is a high-quality, mini rendition of the original. it is placed behind a cardboard border (a white mat) in front of a rigid backing board. it adds a professional, decorative, and protective buffer between the artwork and frame glass (not provided), preventing moisture buildup and sticking. they are ideal for framing, protecting against damage, and enhancing display.
each matted print comes signed and titled on the backing board, making them a special addition to your fine art collection.
open-edition prints
an open-edition print is a high quality reproduction of Nicole Ann's artwork with no limit on the number of copies produced. these prints are unsigned & unnumbered but are limited in sizing and availability. they come with no mat / unframed, and have a 0.25" white bleed (for easy self-framing). each print is rolled and shipped in a secure, kraft tube.
as these prints are not paired with a certificate of authenticity, they generally don't appreciate value over time, but are a much more affordable option, making them ideal for home decoration or new fine art collectors.
commissions
a commissioned painting by Nicole Ann is a customized artwork ordered by a client. the buyer specifies the subject, style, and size, collaborating on the vision, and Nicole Ann creates the piece to these specifications.
each custom painting is priced based on concept (landscape dominant), sizing and mediums, deadline requested, and current studio rates.
pictured: red flag alaska, commissioned in 2025
