Re: Print Club

[Wayde Allen <allen@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

On Mon, 14 Jul 1997, George L Smyth wrote:

> The choice of surface is a personal one.  It is quite possible that one
> would choose an RC's surface over that of fiber.  Also, the choice of
> paper would not necessarily mean that one is not offering their best.

I would agree with this.

> There are plenty of well made RC prints out there.  I can't speak for
> collectors (perhaps these prints would be sold to collectors?), but I
> would think that a real collecctor would look for an interesting image
> first, and the paper choice would be well down the list.

Yes, and no.  Collectors are also interested in the life expectancy of
their prints.  As far as I know, RC papers have not yet been shown to
offer the same life expectancy as a fiber based print.  Yes, there is some
room for controversy here, but I've never talked to a conservator yet who
says that RC papers are as stable as fiber.  There is always a first time
though <grin>. 

> Exhibition quality prints can be made on RC paper.  There appears to be
> some kind of bias here that RC papers are inferior.  This (to me)
> indicates some kind of snobbery.

Sure, exhibition quality prints can be made on RC paper.  As far as
collectors (museums) go though, I believe there is a preference for fiber
based.  Of course, the term "collector" may be the problem here.  One can
collect prints made on any kind of paper, and be very happy.  I'd consider
myself in that category.  A museum collecting pieces may not be so
carefree.

> The above reasoning is the reason I suggested that we exchange post
> cards.  We don't have to worry about "value," can send them cheaply, can
> make multiples readliy, can more easily share our visions, etc.
>  I know
> someone on Compuserve (who I traded numerous time with) that got over
> 200 postcards last year.  Talk about fun!  And isn't that what this is
> supposed to be all about?  Get a lousy print - so what.  Get a print on
> RC - who cares.  When value is removed from the formula I think that
> things get better.

I think your point is well taken!!!  We can be very serious about this
with lots of rules, or simply have fun and see what we get.  I guess I'm
in the "fun" mode which is why it may seem like I'm arguing both sides
here.  

> BTW, I'm not against trading prints (this is the only way I have been
> able to afford some of the prints I have), I'm just thinking that
> scalling down would allow for more participation.

I think you are probably correct on this.

>  If anyone wants to
> send me a print (or postcard), I'd be more than happy to reciprocate.

Good offer!!  I just might take you up on this.

- - Wayde
  (allen@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx)

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