The role of prints in a collection can be as multifaceted as prints themselves. They can be a way of building a more comprehensive collection that tells a more complete story about an artist’s practice — often featuring themes and compositions found in paintings or sculptures. For example, prints by Picasso and Johns show an evolution of different subjects, but also reveal the growth of their skill as printmakers over the course of their careers.

Prints can also present the opportunity to own an authentic and iconic subject or artist without the high price tag attached to it. Prints can also be a great way to get started — a way to acquaint yourself with styles and artists in the same mode as other mediums but at a different price point. 

Prints are not made in large production runs intended solely for commercial sale. A limited number (known as an edition) are produced, with prescribed routes for initial sale — either through the artist, a commercial gallery or a publisher. As a result, they are true works of art, and as important to the artist as drawings or other works on paper.