Q035EN – What is a multiple edition and what is an artist proof?

An artwork created in several examples could be a photograph or a sculpture reproduced in several examples. The size of the edition is the total number of reproductions you plan to make for this artwork. The resulting artworks are then numbered to guarantee that no extra examples will be produced. For example, if the size of your edition is eight, the works will be numbered 1/8, 2/8, 3/8 and so forth up until 8/8.

Artists’ proofs are additional reproductions, which are generally made by the artist and which are not necessarily intended for sale. These are called ‘not-for-sale’ proofs (NFS). The rule of thumb is that you do not create over 20% of the size of the edition in artist proofs. For example, if a work is published in 10 copies, then the rule of thumb would be that there will not be more than two artist proofs in addition to these 10 copies. Artists’ proofs are generally numbered using Roman numerals. For example, if in total there are two artist’s proofs, they will be numbered I/II and II/II. This numbering convention is often preceded by the initials A.P. (i.e. artist’s proof). (Artist Proof) or NFS (Not-For-Sale). For example: A.P. I/II and A.P. II/II.

By definition, a painting is a unique piece of work because it is impossible to paint the same painting more than once.

If you require more detailed information, please check on the Internet.