Before Banksy. Before KAWS. Before anyone was selling street art at Christie's, there was Futura 2000. He is the original, and his market reflects it.
Why Futura Matters
Lenny McGurr—known as Futura 2000—was painting New York City subway cars in the 1970s. He brought abstract expressionist sensibility to graffiti when everyone else was writing letterforms. His work appeared on the London stage with The Clash in 1981. Nike and Supreme sought him out decades before streetwear collaborations were a marketing category.
The Atomist Signature
Futura's "Atomist" style—circular atomic/planetary forms, nebula-like spray gradients, constellation dot clusters—is instantly recognizable and deeply influential on everything from graphic design to fine art. His visual language has been referenced by virtually every significant street artist who followed.
The Investment Case
Futura's auction prices have appreciated 150–300% over the past decade. Canvas works: $15,000–$80,000. Works on paper: $3,000–$15,000. Limited edition prints: $500–$3,000. The print market offers the most accessible entry point for collectors building a position in his work.
Collaborations to Watch
Futura x Nike Air Force 1, Futura x Supreme, and Futura x Medicom Bearbrick collaborations have all outperformed in the secondary market. Collaboration pieces command 2–4x the premium of standalone work from the same period.
Inquire about Futura 2000 works through Gauntlet Gallery's specialist team.
