Metal art decor has become extremely popular as a modern and vibrant addition to both interior and exterior spaces. However, when choosing the metal-based artwork type, many people find themselves at a crossroad between metal art vs print.
While both options can be visually impressive, each offers a unique experience, hence why it’s difficult to choose. Don’t worry since that’s why we’re here, to address the top differences regarding metal art vs print art.
Let’s begin without further ado.
Creation Process and Artistic Integrity
One of the most significant differences regarding metal art vs print lies in the creation process. Metal art is made by artists who work directly with various types of metal materials like steel, copper, aluminum, etc. This art is often made by hand and can include techniques such as welding, engraving, painting, and others. It’s an authentic metal artwork since it carries the artist’s personal style and touch, which also makes it a representation of craftsmanship and creativity.
Metal art prints, on the other hand, involve a printing process where an image is transferred onto a metal surface. It’s usually aluminum by using direct printing or dye sublimation, therefore, it’s also like comparing metal art vs aluminum print in most cases. Even though metal prints can capture a high level of color accuracy and detail, the entire process is more automated and industrial without so much creativity and artistic integrity. The art here is more in the image choice rather than the crafting and metal. Therefore, metal prints lack the uniqueness and depth that handcrafted metal art has.
In addition, metal art maintains the integrity of traditional artistry. Of course, we are in sync with modern times and love to combine AI ideas with traditional metal art. Still, metal art provides value and authenticity that mass production of metal prints simply cannot replicate.
Texture and Dimensionality
Another advantage of metal art pieces when comparing metal art vs print is that they’re textured and three-dimensional. The artist working with metal can incorporate it into the material, which makes it a multi-dimensional piece that interacts with shadow and light in interesting ways. This also creates tactile quality and provides viewers the advantage to engage with the piece on a sensory level.
In contrast, prints are usually flat, and even though the work may appear vivid, it lacks natural texture and three-dimensional depth. Furthermore, metal prints don’t offer the same level of interactive experience because they’re designed to replicate a photo or digital image. Even when it comes to abstract metal art, prints are still not a better option because they can’t deliver a multi-dimensional piece.
Also, metal art has the advantage of being highly impactful in industrial and contemporary spaces where the interplay of light on textured surfaces can improve the atmosphere.
Longevity and Durability in Metal Art vs Print
It’s interesting that both metal art and metal prints are generally more durable than paper craft and paper-based art, even more than traditional canvas. However, the advantage of metal art is that it’s more resistant to elements like sunlight, moisture, and even minor scratches. That’s why metal art is suitable for both outdoor and indoor spaces, and its durability also ensures it remains beneficial for years, if not generations.
Metal prints are also durable, but they’re usually treated with a protective coating that protects them from scratching and fading. Still, the image is printed onto the metal instead integrated into its structure, so it can be prone to wear over time, especially in outdoor conditions or direct sunlight for longer periods.
Metal Art’s Uniqueness and Personalization vs Print
Metal art is often made as a single and unique metal piece that artists can customize with specific textures, finishes, and patterns, making each artwork a personal creation. This gives you the chance to own a metal art piece that’s one-of-a-kind, with the knowledge that no one else has the same artwork in their home.
On the other hand, metal prints are often made as part of a series, which means that an image is replicated on many prints. Of course, some people enjoy the chance to replicate something many times, however, prints lack the unique quality that metal art undoubtedly delivers. Moreover, a print sometimes isn’t as personal since it’s a reproduction of an image rather than a creation in itself.
Artistic Value in Metal Art vs Print and Investment Potential
Not that there’s anything wrong with decoration, however, art is never just about decoration. In fact, art is about many things, but one of the crucial ones can be to have something that has value and has cultural and emotional significance. Metal art can be seen as more valuable because of its handcraftsmanship, and the skill, materials, and time invested in each piece. Hence why it can also be seen as an investment piece whose value increases over time, especially if it’s made by a recognized artist.
Although visually appealing, prints are generally more decorative than collectible. One of the reasons is because they lack artistic significance and because their value lies mainly in their aesthetic. Logically, since they’re are usually part of mass production, their long-term value is a lot less significant and they’re less appreciated over time.
Final Thoughts on Metal Art vs Print
When it comes to choosing between metal art and metal prints, it’s crucial to consider what you desire from your future artwork. Even though metal prints deliver contemporary aesthetic at an affordable price, metal art gives you something far more special. The handcrafted quality, durability, and uniqueness make it a lot more than just a decoration. Metal art is a lasting statement, a future piece of history, and often a conversation starter the very moment someone sees it in your space.
So, if you want something special, you can inspire yourself by some of our unique metal pieces. And if you already have an idea, feel free to contact us to make your metal art idea a reality!