Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Mr Brainwash Print Index
Leo, Keep Smiling
Summary
Leo, Keep Smiling is a 2019 screen print measuring 22.5 x 30 inches, released in an edition of 50 with an AP edition of 5. Part of Mr. Brainwash's 'Keep Smiling' series, it applies his upbeat, affirmational treatment to a recognizable subject in a compact format.
Why It Matters
The Keep Smiling motif is one of Mr. Brainwash's most enduring optimistic taglines, and applying it to a named subject personalizes the message. With an edition of just 50, this 2019 release is more contained than many of his larger runs, giving it added collecting appeal.
Collector Perspective
An edition of 50 with 5 APs sits toward the scarcer end of the artist's paper editions. Collectors should confirm the pencil signature and numbering, and note the AP designation where present. It pairs naturally with its companion Mona, Keep Smiling from the same series.
Historical Context
Released in 2019, Leo, Keep Smiling belongs to Mr. Brainwash's Keep Smiling series of affirmational portraits. The upbeat tagline reflects the relentless positivity that has characterized his output since his emergence as a gallery phenomenon.
FAQ
What is the edition size?
Leo, Keep Smiling is an edition of 50 with an AP edition of 5.
What are the dimensions?
The print measures 22.5 x 30 inches.
Is there a companion print?
Yes, Mona, Keep Smiling is a companion from the same series, also an edition of 50.
What year was it released?
It was released in 2019.
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.