Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Mr Brainwash Print Index
Mona, Keep Smiling
Summary
Mona, 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. It applies Mr. Brainwash's signature Keep Smiling optimism to the Mona Lisa, one of the most reproduced images in art history.
Why It Matters
Reworking the Mona Lisa places this print in the long lineage of artists remixing Leonardo's icon, from Duchamp onward. Mr. Brainwash's cheerful 'Keep Smiling' overlay turns art-historical reverence into pop affirmation, a move that is both accessible and knowingly irreverent.
Collector Perspective
With an edition of 50 and 5 APs, this is a comparatively contained run. The instantly recognizable subject broadens its appeal beyond dedicated MBW collectors. Confirm the pencil signature and numbering; it also pairs with its companion Leo, Keep Smiling from the same 2019 series.
Historical Context
Released in 2019, Mona, Keep Smiling sits within the Keep Smiling series and Mr. Brainwash's broader habit of appropriating canonical images. Recasting the Mona Lisa through a pop-optimist filter extends a tradition of playful engagement with art history's most famous portrait.
FAQ
Who is depicted?
The print reinterprets the Mona Lisa with Mr. Brainwash's 'Keep Smiling' theme.
What is the edition size?
It 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, Leo, Keep Smiling is a companion from the same series and edition size.
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.