When purchasing art prints, the choice of finish can have a significant impact on how the artwork is displayed and experienced. At Artmajeur, we offer stunning limited edition prints on high-quality supports such as fine art paper, canvas, or metal, with the option of either matte or glossy finishes. Each finish has its own unique characteristics, and understanding the difference between them can help you make the right choice for your space and style. Let’s dive into the key differences and when it’s best to choose one over the other.
What Is a Matte Finish?
A matte finish is smooth and non-reflective, meaning it does not reflect light and has a more subdued appearance. This type of finish can give the artwork a softer, more natural look. Because of its lack of shine, matte finishes reduce glare, making it easier to view the artwork from different angles, even in brightly lit environments.
Characteristics of Matte Finish:
- Non-reflective surface: No shine or glare, making it easier to view under bright lights.
- Soft, elegant appearance: Adds a subtle, sophisticated look to the artwork.
- Rich color depth: Tends to emphasize darker colors and details.
- Texture: Often has a tactile, velvety feel, adding depth to the visual experience.
When to Choose Matte:
- Minimalist or modern interiors: Matte finishes blend seamlessly with sleek, contemporary designs, creating an understated elegance.
- Brightly lit spaces: If the artwork will be displayed in a room with lots of natural or artificial light, a matte finish prevents glare, allowing the art to be viewed from any angle without reflection.
- Detailed artworks: For intricate pieces with fine lines or darker tones, a matte finish can enhance the depth and detail without being overpowering.
- Framing without glass: Matte prints work well in frames without glass, as they won’t create additional reflections.
What Is a Glossy Finish?
A glossy finish is highly reflective, giving the artwork a polished, shiny surface that enhances the vibrancy and richness of the colors. This type of finish adds a bright, sleek appearance and tends to make the artwork "pop" by highlighting contrast and details. Glossy finishes are perfect for creating a bold statement piece.
Characteristics of Glossy Finish:
- Shiny, reflective surface: Glossy finishes catch light, making the artwork appear brighter and more vibrant.
- High contrast: Glossy finishes accentuate colors, making them more vivid, especially in prints with a lot of contrast.
- Smooth texture: The glossy surface adds a smooth, sleek feel to the artwork.
- Durability: The reflective coating can offer extra protection to the print, making it more resistant to fingerprints or scratches.
When to Choose Glossy:
- Vibrant, bold artworks: For colorful, high-contrast pieces, a glossy finish will enhance the brightness and intensity of the colors.
- Dimly lit spaces: If the artwork will be displayed in a low-light environment, a glossy finish can add brightness and visual interest to the room.
- Photography or digital art: Glossy finishes are often preferred for photographic prints or digital artwork, as they can make the image appear sharper and more dynamic.
- Framing under glass: Glossy prints work best when framed under glass, as the reflective quality of both elements complement each other, adding a professional finish.
How to Choose: Matte vs. Glossy?
Artmajeur offers both matte and glossy finishes, each equally beautiful in their own way. The choice ultimately depends on the context: matte provides a soft, non-reflective look ideal for bright spaces, while glossy enhances vibrancy and contrast, perfect for bold pieces in dim lighting.
When deciding between matte and glossy, consider the following factors:
- Lighting:
- Matte is ideal for bright or well-lit spaces where reflections could distract from the artwork.
- Glossy works well in dimly lit areas where its shine can enhance the print’s appearance. - Artwork Type:
- Matte finishes are best for detailed, subtle, or darker-toned pieces, as they highlight depth without being overwhelming.
- Glossy finishes are perfect for bold, colorful artworks or photos, as they amplify the vibrancy and contrast. - Room Aesthetics:
- Matte finishes create a more refined, classic look that blends into minimalist or modern interiors.
- Glossy finishes make a statement and work well in more dynamic or contemporary settings. - Framing Choices:
- If you plan to frame the artwork without glass, matte is often the better choice to avoid glare.
- For pieces that will be framed under glass, glossy can enhance the overall impact of the print.
Both matte and glossy finishes offer distinct advantages, depending on the type of artwork and the environment where it will be displayed. Matte provides a soft, non-reflective look, perfect for detailed pieces in bright spaces, while glossy creates a vibrant, high-contrast effect ideal for colorful artworks or photographs.
At Artmajeur, whether you choose fine art paper, canvas, or metal, you can select the finish that best complements your art and space, ensuring your limited edition print stands out in all the right ways.
Selena Mattei