ACRYLIC
Synthetic paint made by distributing pigments in a vehicle made of a polymethyl methacrylate solution in mineral spirits. First used in the 1940’s, they are valued for their versatility. 

CANVAS TRANSFERS*
Like giclées, canvas transfers are a product of the 20th century. A canvas transfer is a process where a print image on paper is transferred to and backed up with canvas. To accomplish this, a paper-backed print is laid on table, and coated with a formula of acrylics. The chemicals used integrate with the print inks and over a two-day period are given a chance to cure between applications. The next day the coated print is put into a bath of chemicals and water and allowed to soak. At the time that the acrylics and inks (which are one) begin to separate from the paper, the wet print is removed from the tank. It is then laid on a table where the acrylics are peeled away from the paper. The wet, blank piece of paper is thrown away. At this point, the film, which is thousandths of an inch thick, is hand applied to a prepared canvas. Canvas transfers are durable and be cleaned with warm water and a mild soap if necessary.

COLLAGE
The technique of creating a work of art by adhering flat articles such as paper, fabrics, string or other materials to a flat surface such as a canvas whereby a three dimensional result is achieved.

GICLÉE*
A 20th-century digital print medium emanating from Iris print technology. "Giclée" has become a generic term for a wide variety of digital print technologies found within the fine art market. Digital prints have found favor among artists and publishers because of accurate reproduction quality, print on demand capability and because the best giclée prints do not exhibit a digital signature, i.e. banding, dot patterns or other typical signs of commercial digital prints.

GOUACHE
The technique or product where heavy, opaque watercolor is applied to paper and produces a more brilliant and strong-colored result than usual watercolors.

LITHOGRAPHY*
Original Lithography invented in the late 18th century uses an inked slab of limestone or a specifically treated metal plate to transfer an image to paper. A hand-separated process is used to re-create the image if it is to be classified an "original lithograph." Colors are printed one at a time, requiring the stone or plate to be prepared for each color used. Original lithography are typically created by the artist or in conjunction with printmakers or artisans under the artist’s supervision.

MIXED MEDIA
The art technique where the artist employs two or more media such as painting, charcoal, collage, etc. and combines them in a single work.

OFFSET LITHOGRAPHY*
Offset Lithography is the print process in which an inked image on a metal or paper plate is transferred to a smooth rubber cylinder and then to paper. A photochemical or digital process is used to re-create the image, which is run on a high-speed, automated press. Four to eight-color printing presses are most commonly used, with all colors typically being printed at the same time. Touch plates or added color embellishments are not uncommon in offset lithography.

OIL PAINTING
Developed over time during the 15th and 16th centuries, the technique or result of using paint made from ground pigments suspended in oil usually linseed. Oil paint allowed for more demanding uses than the drier, less useful egg tempera type of paint.

PHOTOGRAPHY
In general terms, a medium-technique like oil paint or pastel. Photography is the art of using and manipulating the camera and film to produce unique images of reality or formal abstractions. The subject and the stylistic or aesthetic intentions of the photographer will determine the "type" of photography.

SERIGRAPHY*
A stencil method of printmaking in which an image is imposed on a screen of silk or other fine mesh. Blank areas are coated with an impermeable substance, and ink or paint is then pulled through a fine silk or nylon screen onto the printing surface. In the process of silkscreen printmaking known as "serigraphy", colors are printed one at a time, requiring the screens to be prepared for each color used. A hand-separated process is used to re-crate the image if it is to be classified as an "original serigraph." Original serigraphs are typically created by the artist or in conjunction with printmakers or artisans under the artist’s supervision.

SILVER GELATIN
A black and white photograph printed on paper coated with an emulsion consisting of gelatin and silver halide crystals. This method is currently the most popular way to produce black and white photographs

WATERCOLOR
A painting that uses water as its base usually painted on heavy paper.

What’s New at ArtJaz Gallery  2006

Since 1999 ArtJaz Gallery has focused on providing contemporary fine art by working with a growing number of talented artists whose work involves mediums such as acrylic, oil, mixed media, sculpture, ceramic to name a few. With now over 6 years in the art business we are no longer new, however we continue to  learn valuable lessons about what really counts regarding contemporary fine art. Whether at the Gallery in Old City Philadelphia or at an art exhibition on the road, we continue to strive to bring you art that is innovative, creative and yes sometimes provacative with it’s message, image and content.

As you visit our website please note that what’s new is expanding it’s content. In addition to art terminology you can now find information about artists new to ArtJaz Gallery, updated information about existing artists & information about our recently published art book “UNVEILED”. “Unveiled” Series 1, Photography by Will Downing & Fine Art By New And Emerging African American Artists is the first installment in a series that unveils the talent pool of 8 artists represented by ArtJaz Gallery. This distinctive art book gives you R&B Grammy Nominated vocal talent Will Downing’s personal insider’s photographic view of musical celebrities through posed and performing photography shots. In addition you will become more acquainted with the works of 7 visual artists who provide 7 different approaches to fine art as well as individual interpretations of one of Downing’s photographs. To order or for more information, click here.

As always to those of you that support ArtJaz Gallery by acquiring fine art from the Gallery, we thank you and hope that we can again earn your business in the future. If this is your first time visiting www.artjaz.com or hearing about our gallery, we invite you to spend some time to get to know our artists through their artwork here on the site. And any time you’re in Philadelphia feel free to come by in person. We look forward to helping you find a new view and unique solutions to your art needs.