Gauntlet Gallery — Cope2 Print Index
Artlife (First Edition)
Summary
"ARTLIFE" is a 2018 first-edition handmade screen print by Cope2, produced on 300g paper at 50 x 70 cm in an edition of 100, numbered and signed. It was made on the occasion of his first exhibition in Marrakech, titled "Painted by my hands," giving it a specific international exhibition provenance.
Why It Matters
The tie to Cope2's debut Marrakech exhibition makes this a milestone print marking his first show in Morocco, a documented event that distinguishes it from routine studio releases. As a handmade screen print rather than a giclee, it carries the material character of hand-pulled printmaking.
Collector Perspective
Exhibition-linked editions carry narrative provenance that collectors prize, and this one commemorates a first show in a new market. The screen-print process and 50 x 70 cm European format add appeal. At an edition of 100 it is moderately available; retain any exhibition documentation to preserve the story.
Historical Context
Cope2's reach extended well beyond New York over his career, and his first Marrakech exhibition, "Painted by my hands," reflects graffiti's global spread. The "ARTLIFE" title captures the identity of a lifelong artist, framing the show as a statement of dedication to the craft.
FAQ
What occasion marks this print?
Cope2's first exhibition in Marrakech, titled "Painted by my hands."
Is it a screen print?
Yes. It is a handmade screen print, numbered and signed.
What is the edition size?
An edition of 100.
What are the dimensions?
50 x 70 cm on 300g paper.
About the Artist
Cope2 (Fernando Carlo, born 1968 in the Bronx, New York) is a graffiti writer who began tagging New York City subway trains in the late 1970s. A veteran of the transit-era writing scene, he built his reputation through prolific throw-ups and bombing before transitioning to gallery work and canvases. His signature bubble-lettered tag has appeared worldwide, and he has collaborated with brands including Adidas, Time magazine, and Converse. Cope2 remains an active figure bridging old-school New York graffiti culture with the contemporary urban-art market.
Collecting Cope2 at Gauntlet Gallery
What should I look for when buying a Cope2 print?
Focus on hand-signed and numbered screen prints or giclees, ideally released through recognized publishers or the artist directly. Check the edition size, the pencil signature, and any embossed or blindstamp marks. Spray-painted originals on canvas or found objects command higher prices but require closer provenance review. At Gauntlet Gallery, each Cope2 piece is documented with its edition details and condition notes.
How is a Cope2 work authenticated?
Cope2 works are typically authenticated through the issuing publisher's certificate of authenticity, the hand signature, and traceable provenance from a gallery or the artist's studio. Because his tag has been widely imitated, matching a signed print to a documented edition is the most reliable path. Gauntlet Gallery pairs each work with its supporting documentation and does not claim any third-party authority the artist does not use.
What drives value in Cope2 works?
Value is driven by medium (unique spray-painted originals over open editions), edition scarcity, condition, and cultural significance tied to his subway-era history. Early or historically documented pieces and notable brand collaborations carry premiums. Signed, numbered, low-edition prints in excellent condition hold value best on the secondary market.