The number of each limited edition

When Andy and I were getting our first limited edition giclees ready, I suggested that we limit the edition to twenty five. I often see open editions or ‘limited editions’ where no number is given. I’d never buy a ‘limited edition’ not knowing how many other people had the same artwork. Hundreds? Thousands?

Andy decided to limit the editions to thirty three copies only. (And we are very strict about out limits). I didn’t think to question the number at the time. We had so much to do getting ready for his first one-man exhibition.

It wasn’t until someone asked him during the exhibition why he’s chosen that number that I realized – and then did that ‘doh!’ thing. And you’ll understand too, on two provisos. The first is that you’re aware of Andy’s background and know that back in the 1980s he designed iconic, now collectible record sleeves and the second is that you’re old enough to know what a record  is.

If you remember the days when our music came on vinyl, then you’ll also remember that records were played at three speeds, depending on the size of the ‘disc’. The rpm (revolutions per minute) were 33, 45 and 78. Aha!

We’ve been asked if we’ll do larger editions. Yes we will but we want to keep the limit below a hundred.  Until I realized the rpm things, I’d thought we’d double up and triple up – 66 and 99 – but would 45 and 78 be better, I wonder?