The mediums of printmaking, photography, and cinema/film/video are considered mechanically reproducible because they involve techniques and processes that allow for the creation of multiple, identical copies.
Printmaking:
In printmaking, artists create an image on a matrix (such as a plate, block, or screen) and use it to make multiple reproductions on paper or other surfaces. Techniques like etching, woodcut, and lithography allow for the production of several identical prints.
Photography:
Photography is inherently reproducible due to the nature of the photographic process. A single negative or digital file can be used to produce multiple prints or copies. This is a key characteristic of mechanically reproducible art.
Cinema/Film/Video:
Films and videos are mechanically reproducible because they can be duplicated and distributed widely. Once a film or video is produced, it can be reproduced and screened in multiple locations, reaching a large audience.
On the other hand, drawing, sculpture, and painting are typically considered unique or one-of-a-kind forms of art. While certain printmaking techniques may involve drawing or painting as part of the process, the final result can still be mechanically reproduced to create multiple copies. The distinction lies in the nature of the medium and the reproducibility of the artistic output.