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Glossary Of Art Terms [7]

L Limited Edition In printmaking, multiples of a print struck from the same plate may be limited to a certain number of copies. This also refers to other forms of published artwork that are identical, usually published at the same time, and limited to a quoted number. For prints, edition numbers are conventionally marked in pencil using fraction format: the bottom number indicates the total number of prints in the edition, and the top number indicates the order in which the print was signed. The publisher undertakes not to produce more than edition size. The smaller the edition size, the more rare the print, and hence the higher the potential value. Edition sizes range from an edition of 2 to thousands. In practice, editions of more than 750 prints have little, if any, extra value.
Limited Edition Print When an artist prints a run of the same image, they determine how many of that image are to be printed. If they choose to print only 100, or 1000 copies of one image, it is limited edition. Each print will usually feature the print number (34/100) and the artist's signature. The more exclusive the piece (the fewer prints), the more expensive and valuable.
Linen Canvas Artist's canvas is make from a variety of fabrics. Linen and cotton are the most common. Linen is more expensive. It is longer lasting, due in part to the oils retained in the canvas that keep it pliable, and less likely to expand, due to the equally weighted threads used to construct the canvas.
Linocut Linocut is a printmaking technique in which a design is carved into the surface of a linoleum block using cutting tools, leaving raised areas that will receive ink for printing. The linoleum block is then inked with a roller, and paper is pressed onto the block to transfer the inked design onto the paper. Linocut prints are characterized by their bold lines, textures, and graphic quality, resulting from the relief surface of the linoleum block. Artists can create multiple prints from a single linoleum block, varying the colors, papers, and printing techniques to achieve different effects. Linocut is a versatile and accessible printmaking technique popular among artists, illustrators, and printmakers for its expressive potential and tactile qualities.
Liquitex A company that manufactures and sells art products, including acrylic paints, varnish, brushes, spray paints, and more.
Lithograph A copy of a work that is created by the artist himself (ie: not a print created years later from a digital image). The artist creates a mirror image of the artwork using grease pencils on stone. Oil-based ink is then applied to the piece, and bonds with the grease but avoids the uncolored areas. Canvas or paper is then laid over the plate and pressed to transfer the ink onto the material. The plate is then re-inked for the next sheet of material.
Lustre Finish A semi-glossy finish that reflects light without compromising the image with a visible reflection.