Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Faile Print Index
Hollywood
Summary
Hollywood is a hand-painted varied edition of 22, built from acrylic, silkscreen ink, spray paint, and gold leaf on Coventry Rag 320gsm at 28 x 40 inches. It carries a Constellation of Gold B-Side, and each impression is signed, stamped, and embossed with the FAILE 1986 mark. The gold-leaf application distinguishes it within the studio's varied output.
Why It Matters
The addition of gold leaf elevates Hollywood beyond FAILE's typical acrylic-and-spray hand-finished editions, introducing a precious-material dimension that catches light and heightens each sheet's uniqueness. With only 22 examples and a Constellation of Gold reverse, it stands among the most materially rich pieces in the studio's editioned canon.
Collector Perspective
At a $2,500 release, this premium varied edition warrants attention to the specific placement and condition of the gold leaf, which is fragile and integral to value. Each of the 22 is unique, so collectors should assess the exact example's palette, gilding, and the Constellation of Gold B-Side rather than treating impressions as interchangeable.
Historical Context
Gold leaf recurs in FAILE's work as a nod to religious iconography and gilded devotional imagery, themes the duo has explored through their temple and prayer-wheel installations. Its use here connects the Hollywood glamour reference to a longer studio interest in sacred and precious surfaces.
FAQ
What sets this apart from other FAILE varied editions?
The inclusion of gold leaf alongside acrylic, silkscreen ink, and spray paint, which adds a precious-material dimension not present in most of the studio's hand-finished sheets.
How large is the edition?
22 hand-painted impressions, each individually worked so no two are identical.
What is the B-Side image?
A Constellation of Gold image printed on the reverse of the sheet.
How should the gold leaf be cared for?
Gold leaf is delicate; collectors should protect the surface from abrasion and handle the sheet carefully, as gilding condition affects value.
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.