Most know Bob Dylan as the iconic musician and cultural figure, but few are aware of his significant contributions to the world of visual art. Even though Dylan has been painting since the 1960’s, it wasn’t until the 1990’s that he started publishing his work. Since then, Dylan has created an incredible collection of limited-edition prints, giving his fans an opportunity to own a piece of his legacy.
Roseberys is proud to hold the auction record for Bob Dylan prints, which is why we've created this easy-to-follow guide for starting a Bob Dylan print collection. This guide walks you through everything from identifying different print types to understanding the key factors of collecting.
Mediums to Look Out For:
• Lithographs: This planographic technique is based on the immiscibility of oil and water. A design is drawn onto a flat stone or prepared metal plate using an oil-based crayon or ink. The surface is then prepared for inking using a series of chemical reactions. Once inked, a damp sheet of paper is laid on the surface and both the stone/metal sheet and paper are passed through a press.
• Screenprints: A mesh screen is used to apply coloured ink to the areas of the screen not blocked out by a stencil, and then this ink is transferred to the paper or material.
• Giclée Prints: A digital printing method, which uses an inkjet printer to produce a high-quality archival pigment print.
Lot 486: Bob Dylan, American b.1941- Side Tracks, 18 May 1976, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; unique giclée with hand embellish in colours by the artist, signed in pencil.
Price Realised: £41,600
• Mixed Media Prints: Bob Dylan mixed media prints typically feature giclée prints embellished with hand-colouring.
Lot 322: Bob Dylan, American b.1941- The Guitar Player; mixed media on wove paper
Limited Editions and Signatures
Dylan’s prints are often released in limited editions, which can significantly influence their value. The number of prints in each edition is usually indicated on the piece itself (often in the format of ‘x/295’, where ‘x’ represents the individual number of the print in the series).
One key detail to always look for is the 'Bob Dylan' signature. Additionally, make sure there is always a certificate of authenticity (COA) accompanying the piece when purchasing a signed print to ensure the signature and the work are genuine.
It’s important to note that two print collections released in 2022 were signed using Bob Dylan’s ‘auto-pen’.
Factors to Consider When Collecting
• Condition: The condition of the print is crucial to its value. Look for prints that are in very good condition with no fading, discoloration, or tears.
• Provenance: Provenance refers to the history of ownership of a particular print. If you’re looking to purchase a higher-value piece, ensuring that it has a well-documented provenance that can help guarantee its authenticity and value.
• Edition Size: As mentioned, prints from smaller editions (e.g., 25 or 50) are generally more valuable than those from larger editions (e.g., 295 or more). Limited editions tend to appreciate in value over time, especially if they are rare or have become culturally significant.
• Authenticity: Be wary of reproductions or prints that aren’t authentic. Always verify the source of the print and seek certificates of authenticity or documentation to ensure you're purchasing an original work by Bob Dylan.
Collecting Bob Dylan prints is not only an exciting way to engage with the artist’s unique legacy, but it can also be a rewarding investment. By learning about the different types of prints, understanding the market, and acquiring pieces from trusted sources, you can build a collection that appreciates in both artistic and financial value.
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