Our class made a trip down to the Rare Prints Gallery in Downtown Franklin to see just that… rare prints that have been preserved and have stood the test of time. Our “guide” was very knowledgeable of the subject, being that she aids in the collection, restoration, and sale of prints whose plates and blocks have been long gone for decades and even centuries.
While she didn’t spend much time lingering on any specific prints, I found myself attracted to the Audubon birds of America series. This interest was not without prior inspiration—for many projects and presentations throughout my pre-college career, I had chosen J.J. Audubon as my subject. I have always admired his work and the accuracy found in his paintings. The real reason, of which I was already aware, why his prints are so valuable is because his wife had all of his engravings plates melted down for money after he died, leaving only the prints that had already been circulated behind.
The gallery itself was amazing. It was organized and well displayed, with each wall meticulously lined with prints from different artists spanning centuries of history. It is truly amazing trying to take it all in when you first stumble upon the shop. This is definitely a place I would have interest in re-visiting in the near future, and I would highly recommend others to drop in and check it out.
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