Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Cleon Peterson Print Index
The Disappeared (Red)
Summary
The Disappeared (Red) (2019) is a hand-pulled black-and-red screen print measuring 18 x 24 inches on 290gsm Coventry Rag with deckled edges. Self-released in an edition of 100, signed and numbered, its title evokes forced disappearance, a stark reference to state violence and the erasure of people.
Why It Matters
The title carries specific political weight, invoking the language of authoritarian regimes and their vanished victims. This grounds Peterson's usually allegorical violence in recognizable history. The economical black-and-red palette intensifies the theme, reducing the scene to perpetrators and blood without narrative softening.
Collector Perspective
Politically pointed titles like this resonate with collectors drawn to Peterson's social commentary rather than pure graphic force. At an edition of 100 in the standard 18 x 24 format, it is accessible and easy to frame. The signed-and-numbered inscription and deckled Coventry Rag confirm authenticity on inspection.
Historical Context
"The disappeared" is a phrase tied to state terror across the twentieth century, from Latin American juntas onward. Peterson channels that history into his black-figure idiom, extending his critique of power to the specific horror of enforced disappearance, a recurring undercurrent in his politically engaged 2019 editions.
FAQ
What does the title reference?
It evokes forced disappearance, the state practice of abducting and erasing people, giving Peterson's imagery a specific political charge.
What colors are used?
Black and red, Peterson's signature two-color scheme.
What are the dimensions and edition?
18 x 24 inches, self-released edition of 100, signed and numbered.
What paper stock is it?
290gsm Coventry Rag with deckled edges.
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.