Gift giving has become quite impersonal of late. People are still considerate enough to remember birthdays, holidays and special occasions but rather than take the time to select a thoughtful gift idea many people settle for store gift cards. Pre-paid gift cards aren't a bad idea, it allows the recipient to pick out a gift they know they will like but sometimes an occasion calls for something special and for those times fine art is a sure bet to make a lasting impression.

The only problem with original fine art is a hefty price. Canvas art, oil paintings and portraits aren't cheap and if you want the original it will cost a lot. However, if you still want to give the lasting gift of fine art consider museum quality archival Giclee art prints. Digital reproduction technology has advanced so much in recent years that it almost takes a seasoned art appraiser to tell the difference between an original and a reproduction.

Fine art prints have several benefits over original artwork and cost is just the beginning. Depending on the size of the painting and the artist, a piece of fine art can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to several million. At that point you're more likely to be making an investment than giving a gift. Another problem with original fine art is the preservation and care taking that is involved. Light, dust, fingerprints and moisture can all combine to wear down the colors of a painting and if you simply hang a fine art piece on a wall expect it to deteriorate quickly.

With fine art print reproductions you save yourself time and money. First, fine art prints are a fraction of what the original piece costs. Because of this you can choose to have a single print made or have dozens printed for greeting cards and gifts. Second, art reproductions can be transferred to a number of high quality paper stocks that are more durable than canvas including archival enhanced card stock and 100% cotton rag velvet paper. Using museum quality archival card stock and paper will give you the strongest backing you can have for a fine art reproduction and then you can choose options for preserving the artwork even more.

One option for high quality fine art reproduction is to use a process known as Giclee. Giclee is a French word that means "to spray" and the Giclee process involves generating images from high resolution digital scans and printing with archival quality inks onto various card stocks and papers. The Giclee process can be used for both fine art reproductions and photographs.

Another way to preserve an art print is to have it professionally matted, mounted and framed behind solid glass. Not only does the frame keep the card stock or paper from curling and tearing but the solid glass display plate will protect the artwork from dust, light, fingerprints and other hazards that can easily damage the print.

With a well preserved fine art print on archival card stock you have the perfect fine art gift to let the recipient know how special they are. Fine art prints can be found in just about any style and theme including landscapes, portraits, original designs and floral arrangements. If you really want to make a lasting impression with friends, family and loved ones then consider fine art reproductions that will last a lifetime.