Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Faile Print Index
Held My Breath (150 Series)
Summary
"Held My Breath" comes from FAILE's varied 150 Series, an edition of 250 printed with acrylic and silkscreen ink on Lenox 100 paper at 12.5 x 19 inches. Signed, stamped, and numbered, it exists in roughly seven color variants, so each impression carries its own palette within the shared composition.
Why It Matters
The 150 Series is one of FAILE's most accessible entry points, priced and sized for newer collectors while still delivering the studio's hand-finished character. With around seven color variants across the edition, the series rewards those who track palettes, and its full signing, stamping, and numbering keeps each impression clearly documented.
Collector Perspective
Value within the 150 Series often hinges on which of the roughly seven color variants an impression represents; scarcer palettes draw more interest. The acrylic-plus-silkscreen hand treatment on Lenox 100 gives each piece individuality despite the 250-count edition. Numbering and the full FAILE mark make authentication straightforward for buyers.
Historical Context
FAILE's 150 and 250 series functioned as approachable companions to their large flagship editions, letting the duo release quick, varied hand-worked prints tied to shows and themes. The 2013 series continued FAILE's romance-comic and pulp lettering language in intimate format, extending their gallery vocabulary to a wider collector base.
FAQ
Why is it called the 150 Series?
The series name references the print's original release price point within FAILE's varied-edition program.
How many color variants exist?
There are approximately seven color variants across the edition of 250.
What materials are used?
Acrylic and silkscreen ink on Lenox 100 paper, hand-finished.
Is each print numbered?
Yes, each is signed, stamped, and numbered by FAILE.
About the Artist
FAILE is a Brooklyn-based artistic collaboration founded in 1999 by Patrick McNeil and Patrick Miller. Known for a distinctive collage aesthetic that blends comic-book imagery, pulp advertising, religious iconography, and street-poster typography, FAILE built its reputation through wheat-pasted works and stencils in cities worldwide. The duo is celebrated for reviving printmaking and woodblock techniques, and for immersive installations such as their prayer-wheel and temple environments. Their work has been exhibited internationally, including projects with the New York City Ballet, bridging street practice and fine-art institutions.
Collecting Faile at Gauntlet Gallery
Which FAILE works are best to collect?
FAILE's signed, numbered silkscreen editions and their hand-finished wood and mixed-media pieces are the core of the market. Screenprints from their studio releases offer an accessible entry, while unique wooden "blocks" and painted works sit at the higher end. Gauntlet Gallery focuses on complete, well-preserved impressions with strong color registration.
How is a FAILE piece authenticated?
We sell FAILE works with documented studio provenance, backed by the edition's signature and numbering. Every piece is photographed as-is, including the signature, edition number, and any studio markings, so you can confirm details before purchase.
What makes one FAILE piece worth more?
Edition size, medium (unique wood pieces over open prints), iconic imagery, condition, and provenance from a known release all drive value. Hand-embellished and one-of-a-kind works consistently outperform standard editioned prints.