Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Cleon Peterson Print Index
Freedom / Prosperity At Any Price (Red)
Summary
"Freedom / Prosperity At Any Price (Red)" is a 2020 hand-pulled screen print by Cleon Peterson, self-released in a signed, numbered edition of 125 at 18 x 24 inches on 290gsm Arches Rag with deckled edges. The red treatment and pointed title interrogate the cost of freedom and prosperity when pursued without limit.
Why It Matters
The title's "at any price" cuts to Peterson's critique of exploitation dressed as ambition, questioning what is sacrificed in the pursuit of prosperity. The red colorway sharpens that unease. It matters as a text-driven 2020 work that turns aspirational language against itself to expose the human cost behind it.
Collector Perspective
Sharing its 18 x 24 format, edition of 125, and Arches Rag stock with "Power Can Do Anything," this red print reads as a natural companion in a Peterson grouping. The larger edition offers relatively better availability, while the charged title and red palette give it standalone graphic and conceptual presence.
Historical Context
Released in 2020, the print reflects Peterson's scrutiny of unchecked ambition during a period of political and economic strain. By framing freedom and prosperity as things pursued "at any price," it extends his broader indictment of power and exploitation, joining his self-released editions from that reckoning year.
FAQ
What is the print questioning?
It interrogates the human cost of pursuing freedom and prosperity without limit, extending Peterson's critique of exploitation.
What is the edition size?
A signed and numbered limited edition of 125.
What color is this version?
This is the red treatment, hand-pulled on 290gsm Arches Rag paper with deckled edges.
Does it relate to other prints?
It shares format, edition size, and paper with Power Can Do Anything / Justice Nothing, making the two natural companions.
About the Artist
Cleon Peterson (born 1973, Seattle) is an American artist known for stark, high-contrast compositions depicting scenes of violence, power, and social conflict. Working primarily in a limited palette — often black on a single bold ground — he renders chaotic tableaux of figures locked in struggle, exploring themes of authority, brutality, and moral disorder in contemporary society. His graphic, almost hieroglyphic style has appeared in paintings, murals, and a substantial catalogue of signed prints, as well as collaborations spanning fashion and public art. He is based in Los Angeles.
Collecting Cleon Peterson at Gauntlet Gallery
Which Cleon Peterson works should I collect?
His signed, numbered screenprints are the core of the market, prized for their bold duotone impact. Look for clean registration and strong condition. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes complete, well-preserved impressions with documentation.
How is a Cleon Peterson piece authenticated?
We sell his works with documented provenance and the edition's signature and numbering. Each piece is photographed as-is, including signature and edition details, so you can verify before purchase.
What drives value?
Edition size, image iconicity, color scheme, condition, and provenance drive value. Low-numbered, large-format, and hand-embellished works command the strongest premiums.