Why Printed Materials Still Matter
In an increasingly digital world, a well-designed printed brochure signals professionalism. Collectors, curators, and art advisors still expect physical documentation — at viewings, art fairs, and during the sales process.
A gallery brochure is not a flyer. It's a presentation tool that should match the quality of the art it represents.
Typography Standards
Serif for Titles
The art world has long favored serif typefaces for their association with tradition, permanence, and cultural authority. The best choices:
- Garamond — the standard for gallery publications
- Baskerville — slightly more contemporary
- Cormorant — elegant open-source alternative
Sans-Serif for Body
Clean, readable body text in a neutral sans-serif:
- Inter — excellent screen and print rendering
- Helvetica Neue — the industry standard
- Aktiv Grotesk — modern alternative
Size Hierarchy
- Title: 24–32pt
- Artist name: 14–18pt
- Body text: 9–11pt
- Captions: 7–8pt
- All measurements assume A5 format (148 × 210mm)
Image Quality Requirements
Resolution
- Print: minimum 300 DPI at final output size
- Screen/PDF: 150 DPI acceptable
- Never upscale a low-resolution image
Color Profile
- Print: CMYK (ISO Coated v2)
- Screen: sRGB
- Include both profiles in your production files
Image Sizing
- Full-page artwork images: bleed to edges
- Grid layouts: maintain consistent gutters (minimum 4mm)
- Never stretch or distort artwork proportions
Layout Principles
Paper and Finish
For a professional impression:
- Paper weight: 170–250gsm coated
- Finish: Matte or soft-touch lamination
- Format: A5 (148 × 210mm) is the gallery standard
- Binding: Saddle-stitched for 4–16 pages, perfect-bound for larger catalogs
Digital-First Alternative
Gilded Artworks generates editorial-quality catalogs that follow these exact standards — optimized for both digital distribution and professional printing. Typography, layout, and image handling are all built into the template system.