When you're looking for artwork for your home, you'll often come across two options: original artworks and art prints. Both can be beautiful additions to a space, but there are some important differences worth understanding before choosing your next piece.
Whether you're buying your first artwork, adding to an existing collection or simply looking for something to bring a little more colour into your home, understanding the difference can help you find something that's right for you.
What is an original artwork?
An original artwork is a one-of-a-kind piece created by an artist. It is the actual painting or artwork produced through the artist's creative process, rather than a reproduction of an existing image.
Original works can be created using all sorts of materials and techniques, including acrylics, watercolours, inks, oils and mixed media.
Part of the appeal of original art is that every piece has its own individual character. Brushstrokes, textures, layers, colour variations and little details are all part of what makes an artwork unique.
Even when an artist explores similar colours, subjects or techniques across several paintings, each original work has its own identity.
When you purchase an original artwork, you're taking home the actual piece created by the artist. There is only one of that particular work.
What is an art print?
An art print is a reproduction of an existing artwork or design. It is produced by transferring an image onto paper or another material using a printing process.
Prints allow an artist's work to be reproduced and enjoyed by more people, without needing to recreate the original painting each time.
They can be produced in different sizes and finishes, making them a versatile option for decorating your home. Some prints are produced in limited editions, while others are made in larger quantities.
A quality art print can capture the colours and details of the original artwork beautifully, although it won't have the same physical texture, materials or individual marks as the original painting.
The key differences
While both options can look wonderful on your walls, there are a few things that set them apart.
Original artwork
One-of-a-kind and individually created by the artist.
Features the actual materials, textures and marks used in the creative process.
No two original works are exactly alike.
Often comes with a greater sense of individuality and connection to the artist.
Generally costs more than a reproduction of the same work.
Art prints
Reproductions of an existing artwork or design.
Can be produced in multiple copies and sizes.
Often offer a more affordable way to enjoy an artist's work.
Provide consistency in colour and appearance across reproductions.
Can be easier to replace or purchase again if you want the same image in another room.
Neither option is necessarily better. It really comes down to what you're looking for and what you value in a piece of art.
Why choose an original artwork?
There is something quite special about owning an original painting.
Beyond the colours and composition, you're buying something that exists only once. The little imperfections, unexpected details, textures and marks are all part of its story.
Original artworks also offer an opportunity to connect with an artist's creative process. You might be drawn to a particular combination of colours, the movement of the paint or the way different materials have come together.
For many people, the appeal is simply knowing that the painting hanging on their wall is the actual piece made by the artist, rather than a copy.
And you don't necessarily need to spend a fortune to own original art. Smaller paintings and works on paper can be a wonderful entry point for people who are interested in collecting but aren't quite ready to invest in a large canvas.
When are art prints the right choice?
Art prints have their own appeal and are a great option in many situations.
If you love a particular image and want to display it in several rooms, prints make that possible. They're also useful when decorating larger spaces, creating a coordinated gallery wall or working within a particular budget.
Prints can be a lovely way to discover an artist's work, particularly if you're drawn to a particular style or colour palette.
And there's no reason you can't enjoy both original artworks and prints in the same home. They can work beautifully together.
How do you choose the right artwork for your home?
The best place to start is with what you love.
Think about the colours, styles and subjects that naturally catch your attention. Consider the space where you'd like to display the artwork, but don't feel that everything needs to match perfectly.
If you're looking for something truly individual, an original painting might be the right choice. If you're after a particular image in a specific size or want to decorate several spaces, a print might suit you better.
You might even find that a small original painting is exactly what you've been looking for. A modestly sized artwork can bring just as much personality and impact to a room as a much larger piece.
Ultimately, art is personal. There are no strict rules about what you should buy or how you should display it.
A little originality goes a long way
Whether you choose an original painting or an art print, the most important thing is finding something that makes you happy to look at every day.
If you're considering your first original artwork, start small, explore different artists and give yourself permission to choose something simply because you love it.
There is something wonderful about bringing home a piece of art that is entirely unique.