The Definition: Giclee (zhee-klay)

The French word “Giclee” is a feminine noun that means to spray or a spurt of liquid. The word may have been derived from the French verb “gicler” meaning “to squirt”.

The Term “Giclee print” connotes an elevation in printmaking technology. Images are high-resolution digital scans printed with archival quality inks onto fine art watercolor paper.The Giclee printing process provides better color accuracy than other means of reproduction.

As for quality, the giclee print now rivals many traditional silver-halide and gelatin printing processes and is commonly found in museums, and art galleries. Numerous examples of giclee prints can be found in New York City at the Metropolitan Museum, The Museum of Modern Art and the trendy Chelsea Galleries.