Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Mr Brainwash Print Index
Independence
Summary
Independence, 2016, is a three-colour screenprint on hand-torn archival paper measuring 24 x 42 inches in an edition of 126. Released to mark Independence Day, each impression is signed and numbered with the artist's thumbprint, wrapping Mr. Brainwash's patriotic imagery in a holiday-timed release.
Why It Matters
The July 4th timing and the specific edition of 126 give this print a commemorative character tied to a single moment. The large 24 x 42 inch horizontal sheet makes it one of the more imposing pieces from the period, and the thumbprint adds the artist's personal authentication mark.
Collector Perspective
The wide 24 x 42 inch format is a display consideration; this is a statement horizontal piece needing substantial wall space. The three-colour palette keeps it graphically clean. Signed, numbered and thumb-printed on hand-torn archival paper; the holiday theme makes it a seasonally resonant collectible.
Historical Context
Mr. Brainwash has a consistent habit of releasing prints keyed to holidays and calendar events, and Independence fits squarely within that pattern for the American July 4th holiday. It reflects his engagement with shared civic and celebratory occasions as subject matter.
FAQ
What occasion does this print mark?
It was released to celebrate American Independence Day, July 4th.
How large is it?
It is a large horizontal sheet, 24 x 42 inches.
Does it carry a thumbprint?
Yes, each impression is signed, numbered, and thumb-printed on the back.
About the Artist
Mr. Brainwash is the pseudonym of Thierry Guetta, a French-born, Los Angeles-based street artist who rose to prominence through Banksy's 2010 documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop. Originally a videographer who filmed street artists including Shepard Fairey and Banksy, Guetta reinvented himself as an artist, staging his ambitious 2008 debut show "Life Is Beautiful" in Los Angeles. His work draws heavily on pop-art appropriation, remixing icons such as Warhol, Einstein, Charlie Chaplin, and spray-paint splatters. He has produced album art and large-scale exhibitions across the U.S. and Europe.
Collecting Mr Brainwash at Gauntlet Gallery
What Mr. Brainwash prints should I buy first?
Start with hand-finished screenprints and stencil works from his named exhibitions, where each impression is signed, numbered, and often uniquely embellished with spray-paint or stamps. Smaller editions and show-related pieces from "Life Is Beautiful" and later gallery runs are the most recognizable entry points. At Gauntlet Gallery we prioritize pieces with clean condition and complete signing.
How is authenticity documented?
Gauntlet Gallery sells Mr. Brainwash works with documented studio provenance and the artist's own signature, numbering, and thumbprint or stamp where present. We photograph the exact piece you receive, including signature and edition details, so what you verify is what ships.
What drives value?
Value is driven by edition size, whether the piece is hand-embellished versus a flat print, subject popularity, condition, and provenance tied to a documented exhibition. Signed, low-numbered, and uniquely finished impressions command the strongest premiums.