Prints on canvas, a short history

Prints on canvas are easily one of the best ways to display art.

Did you know that canvas is relatively recent in art history?

The History of canvas art.

Historically made from woven hemp, the word canvas comes from the Latin cannabis, it became common in the 16th century during the Renaissance. Venetian painters were especially keen on using canvas because it was easier for them to use in a humid environment. They also had large, cheap supplies available because the material was used to make sails, and the Venetians were well known for their navy.

There were more advantages of canvas that made them slowly replace wood panels. A critical facet of the material that holds true today is that canvas allows for larger formats with easy portability. They’re lightweight, can be rolled and less prone to the warping and cracking that occurs with wood.

The Spanish began to use canvas art, following the Italians.

Diego Velázquez’s painting Las Meninas is dominated by a large canvas on the picture’s left-hand side. Proving that the canvas was good enough, even for royalty.

From oil paintings to photo prints on canvas, there’s something about this material that gives a feeling of prestige.

By the 17th century, the canvas had spread throughout Northern Europe, replacing wood panels as the dominant support for paintings, which continues today.

Not only used for oil painting, but artists have also expanded its use to everything from acrylic paint and embroidery to photo prints on canvas.

Still an affordable option, canvas allows photographers and painters alike to professionally display their art.

Modern Day Prints on Canvas

We can print large format canvas prints on frames in our workshop in Craiglie. Come down and see what we offer and make a choice on the frame, we’re here to help.

Call us on 07 4099 4532 to book a time for a tour of the showroom.