At Fruit Market, we love art in all its forms – from one-of-a-kind paintings to beautifully printed vintage posters. Buying art isn’t just about collecting things to hang on your walls; it’s about choosing something that brings you joy and adds depth to your everyday surroundings. A good piece of art has presence. It makes a space feel more alive, more personal.
But when it comes to originals vs. reproductions, things can get a bit confusing. So, let’s break it down.
Original artworks
These are the real deal – paintings, drawings, sculptures, or any piece made directly by the artist’s hand. They’re one-of-a-kind and often carry the marks of the artist’s process: brushstrokes, pencil lines, textures. These works are entirely unique, which makes them not just beautiful but also special in the truest sense of the word.
Of course, that level of uniqueness often comes with a price tag that reflects not only the individuality of the piece but also the pulse of the contemporary art market. You’re investing in something truly singular – a work that exists nowhere else. For collectors, original artworks hold the highest value and rarity, and their worth can even grow over time. But the truth is, no one can predict the future of the art market (and we’re not in the business of fortune-telling). What we do know is that the best investment is in pieces you genuinely love – things that bring you joy every time you see them.
Owning an original artwork means owning a piece of art history - something crafted with intention and meant to last.
Original prints (including limited editions)
Then there are original prints. This includes techniques like lithographs, aquatints, etchings, screenprints – methods where the artist creates an image on a plate or screen and then produces a set number of copies. These are often limited editions, usually hand-numbered and signed by the artist. Even though there’s more than one, each print is part of a small, controlled series made either by the artist or under their close supervision. The materials and methods used – specific inks, papers, and traditional printing techniques – add to their collectible value.
Some original prints are not numbered, especially older ones or smaller artist-made editions. What matters is that they were made as artworks in their own right – not as reproductions of something else.
Because these prints are tied closely to the artist’s own hand and process, they tend to hold – and sometimes grow – their value over time. But again, while that’s a nice bonus, we always encourage choosing pieces that speak to you first and foremost. Whether it’s an iconic mid-century lithograph or a lesser-known Nordic gem, the real value lies in how it makes you feel every day in your home.
Compared to original artworks, original prints can offer a more accessible entry point into collecting – while still giving you a true work of art, created by the artist using thoughtful, hands-on methods. Both have their place – it just depends on what speaks to you.
Reproductions and posters
On the other side, we have reproductions. These are mass-produced images of artworks — think posters, digital prints, or open edition prints. They aren’t made using the artist’s original techniques or materials, and the artist usually isn’t directly involved in the process.
That said, not all reproductions are created equal. Some, like high-quality fine art giclée prints produced by museums or artist estates, are carefully made using archival inks and heavyweight paper. While they’re not original prints or signed editions, they can still offer great visual impact and production quality — and are often a more affordable way to enjoy iconic artworks in your home.
And of course, vintage posters can be collectible in their own right, especially when they’re tied to cultural history — think classic exhibition posters, film posters, or graphic design gems from decades past. They’re a brilliant, approachable way to bring atmosphere and personality into your space. And let’s face it — most of us don’t have the resources to get a real Matisse.
The best choice is the one that brings you joy. Whether it’s a one-of-a-kind original or a vintage poster with great energy, choose the piece you want to live with.
