Gauntlet Gallery — Cope2 Print Index
Natural
Summary
Natural, from 2013, is a large 24 x 25.5 inch archival pigment print on 290gsm cotton paper, hand-signed and numbered by Cope2. Published by DirtyPilot Editions in an edition of 50 with 5 artist proofs, it pairs quality cotton stock with a generous scale that gives the lettering real presence.
Why It Matters
The DirtyPilot Editions imprint links Natural to a publisher known for working with street and graffiti artists, adding a layer of provenance. Its large format and cotton substrate signal a fine-art production standard, positioning Cope2's raw vocabulary within a serious print-publishing framework.
Collector Perspective
Edition of 50 plus 5 artist proofs, hand-signed and numbered on 290gsm cotton, makes this a solid mid-tier collectible with clear publication provenance. The large size is a plus for display. Confirm the DirtyPilot attribution, signature, and edition fraction; artist proofs, if offered, may carry a premium.
Historical Context
Published in 2013 by DirtyPilot Editions, Natural reflects the period when dedicated street-art publishers helped translate graffiti writers' work into collectible prints. Cope2's participation situates him among the New York veterans whose gallery careers matured through such editions.
FAQ
Who published this print?
It was published by DirtyPilot Editions in an edition of 50 with 5 artist proofs.
Is it signed and numbered?
Yes, it is hand-signed and numbered by Cope2.
What are the dimensions and paper?
It measures 24 x 25.5 inches on 290gsm cotton paper, a large fine-art format.
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.