Why Agave Paper? It’s an Eco-Friendly Win!
Discovery
Last year while gathering art inspiration on a trip to Phoenix Desert Botanical Garden I purchased a book about agave in the gift shop. I was surprised to learn what an interesting and amazing plant it is. Some time later, I was back at my printer in Honolulu browsing their brochure for new paper options. When I noticed agave paper on the list, I read that it was sustainable and eco-friendly but I wondered how my art would look printed on it. I ordered a sample and I was stunned to see how the giclee print on agave paper looked. The print captured the vibrant colors and fine details that are vital to creating my original paintings. I loved how the paper felt sturdy and thick with just enough organic texture. I decided to research more about Hahnemühle, the German company that makes the paper, and I was amazed to learn that they have been in the business of manufacturing paper since 1584. That is not a typo, they literally began in the 16th century!
Eco- Friendly
Next I learned more about why their paper made with agave is so awesome (they use 70% sustainable agave fibers + 30% cotton rag). The paper is made with very durable sisal fibers extracted from the agave plant which renews rapidly. Agave has a long term perennial life cycle so it can be harvested multiple times per year for up to 15 years without destroying the whole plant. They thrive on minimal water consumption and naturally require no pesticides or artificial fertilizers to reach maturity. The plants yield substantially more fiber per acre than a traditional forest wood which helps prevent deforestation and frees up arable land.
High Quality
In addition to the eco-friendly benefits, Hahnemühle’s paper holds an ISO 9706 certification which is the international standard for archival museum quality. To ensure longevity, the paper is acid and lignin free, contains an alkaline buffer, and is naturally rich in ‘alpha-cellulose’ which gives it structural durability and tear resistance. The paper also has a specialized inkjet coating to prevent early fading, bleeding or color shifts.
A Personal Touch + More Art
This product will be replacing my previous staple, matted prints, and I consider it to be an upgrade.
Hand-Signed
I am physically hand-signing my signature in the white space on the bottom of each print. When an artist hand-signs a print it increases its value significantly. I am also enjoying offering this personal touch to my prints. [Browse the hand-signed agave print collection]
More Actual Artwork
I am also doing away with mats so people can have more flexibility with how they choose to display their art. Previously, my 11”x14” prints measured to the outer dimension of the mat but the artwork was only 8”x10”. Now the customer will be getting a full 11”x14” of actual artwork. The overall price is higher but it works out to a lower cost per square inch for the new product. Customers will be getting more art for their money
I consider my new agave print collection to be an exciting upgrade. In a world of filters and AI generated content, I am feeling more driven to focus on tangible quality and attention to detail and craftsmanship.