There is no rhyme or reason when it comes to art. Some of what we love is deemed total crap, while confounding, abstract images are tapped as priceless perfection.

In addition to what counts as “good art,” there is no guarantee as to how or why a piece of art increases in value. This leaves collectors and enthusiasts with only one real guiding principle: Get what you like.

It will come as a shock to no one that what many people like in terms of art is erotic. With this, as well as the arbitrary nature of appreciation in mind, in mind Goliath Books recently announced they were issuing a series of limited-edition art prints signed by their respective photographers.

Press information stated: “Goliath Books are now offering handsigned photography prints of some of its most iconic pictures from its most famous photographers, including the world renowned Leonardo Glaus and Holly Randall, king of fetish Christian Saint and pin-up specialist Chas Ray Krider.” [sic]

Not mentioned in the press material were Dave Naz, a name familiar in the adult industry, as well as Ellen Stagg, whose work included images of several high-profile performers.

In terms of art, a topic I am not well equipped to comment on on any level, the idea of having a beautiful image signed by the artist who captured it makes plenty of sense. What struck me about this announcement from Goliath Books was the notion of a digital erotic artist/pornographer – specifically Holly Randall– creating tangible goods in a digital market space.

In addition to having three limited edition signed prints available via Goliath Books, Randall also has four photo books for sale. This stood out to me, having recently seen Randall lament the difficulties of creating digital products available on today’s internet in an installment of 2017’s “Hot Girls Wanted: Turned On.”

Are these types of collections simply what photographers do when they reach a certain level of success? Or, is creating tangible goods a throwback effort to capture consumers in a world that’s moving almost wholly towards digital art?

Whatever the answer, the pictures sure are pretty.

Artist Frank Petronio signing. Image via Goliath Books.

Image via Gary Tamin.