Art Prints vs. Original Art: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve ever browsed my shop or followed along with my art online, you’ve probably noticed that I offer both art prints and original artwork. I often get questions like: What’s the difference? Is one better than the other? Why are originals more expensive?
The short answer is that neither option is “better,” they’re simply different, and each one offers its own kind of value. Whether you’re a seasoned art collector or someone looking to buy your very first piece, this post will walk you through what makes prints and originals unique, and help you decide which one might be right for you.
Drew holding her original painting, The Life of a Coin
What Is Original Artwork?
An original artwork is exactly what it sounds like: a one-of-a-kind piece created by hand. Most of my original art is painted or drawn on stretched canvas, and the sizes vary widely from smaller, more delicate pieces to larger works that are meant to anchor a room.
When you purchase an original, you’re getting the actual piece I worked on. You’ll see the texture of the brushstrokes, all the little decisions made along the way. Originals carry the physical history of the process, every change, every moment of experimentation, and every happy accident.
Because originals are unique and can’t be replicated, they are priced higher than prints. They’re often collected as statement pieces, heirlooms, or deeply personal investments in an artist’s work. Some original art is custom made as a commissioned piece for clients (such as a pet portrait painting), while other original art is totally thought up by the artist (such as my crow painting, the idea for which just popped into my head one day).
Paper print of Drew’s painting, Living Shades
What Is an Art Print?
Art prints are high-quality reproductions of original artwork. I print mine at home on carefully chosen, professional-grade paper to make sure the colors, details, and overall feel stay as true as possible to the original piece.
Most of my prints are available in 8" x 8" or 8" x 10" sizes, which makes them easy to frame and simple to fit into a wide range of spaces. I also offer custom sizing for prints to perfectly fit the space you have, whether that be a smaller or larger piece. Prints are a great way to enjoy a piece of art you love without the higher price point of an original. They also allow more people to connect with the same image, which I personally love since it means one piece of art can live many lives in many homes.
While prints don’t have the physical texture of canvas, they still capture the spirit of the original artwork beautifully.
Key Differences at a Glance
Here are a few simple ways to think about the differences:
Uniqueness: Originals are one of a kind. Prints are made many times over.
Material: Originals are typically on stretched canvas. Prints are on high-quality paper.
Size: Originals vary widely in size. My prints are generally 8" x 8" or 8" x 10".
Price: Originals are priced higher to reflect the time, materials, and uniqueness of the piece. Prints are more accessible and budget-friendly.
Purpose: Originals often act as focal points. Prints are great for gallery walls, desks and other small spaces, gifts, or rotating decor.
Which One Should You Choose?
There’s no wrong answer, it really depends on what you’re looking for.
You might love original art if you:
Want a truly one-of-a-kind piece
Enjoy visible texture and depth
Are building a personal art collection
Want a statement piece for your space
You might prefer art prints if you:
Want to start collecting art at a lower price point
Love switching out artwork frequently or seasonally
Are decorating a gallery wall with many smaller pieces
Want to gift art to someone special
Many collectors also mix both! Prints can fill your walls with color and creativity, while an original piece can serve as a centerpiece that ties the room together.
A Final Thought
Whether you choose a print or an original, the most important thing is that the artwork resonates with you. Art should feel personal, inspiring, and alive in your space. I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who supports my work, whether that’s through collecting originals, choosing prints, or simply sharing my art with others.
If you’re curious to explore what’s currently available, you can browse our shop here, check out my latest pieces on Instagram, or join my email newsletter for early access to new art, prints, and behind-the-scenes studio updates. However you choose to connect, I’m so glad you’re here.
