Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Faile Print Index
Strange Encounters
Summary
Strange Encounters is a 2007 Faile three-color hand-pulled screen print in an edition of 121, printed by Faile in NYC at 76 x 56 cm. Signed and numbered by the artist, it is a straight screen print rather than a hand-finished varied edition, making it one of the more accessible and uniform Faile releases from the period.
Why It Matters
Unlike Faile's small varied editions, Strange Encounters is a comparatively larger run of 121 uniform three-color impressions. This makes it a strong entry point for collectors seeking an authentic hand-pulled Faile print without the price ceiling of the collective's rarest hand-finished works, while still carrying their signature and numbering.
Collector Perspective
At 121 signed and numbered impressions, this is the most common piece in this group, which broadens its collector base. The three-color hand-pulled screen printing gives a consistent result across the edition, so collectors focus on condition, color registration, and the clarity of the signature and number rather than sheet-to-sheet variance.
Historical Context
Faile self-printed many of their editions in New York, and Strange Encounters reflects that in-house production. The larger, uniform edition contrasts with the collective's varied hand-finished runs, showing the range of formats Faile issued in 2007 — from five-piece varied editions to open, straight-printed screen prints.
FAQ
Is this a hand-finished varied edition?
No. Strange Encounters is a straight three-color hand-pulled screen print in a uniform edition of 121, not a hand-finished varied edition.
Where was it printed?
It was printed by Faile themselves in NYC, on quality art paper, signed and numbered by the artist.
What is the edition size?
The edition is 121, making it the most accessible and uniform Faile print in this group.
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.