Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Faile Print Index
Worth Something Gold
Summary
"Worth Something Gold" is a hand-pressed gold foil edition of 50, combining acrylic and gold foil on 335 gsm Coventry Rag, measuring 90 x 73 cm. Signed, stamped, and numbered FAILE 2011, it pairs the duo's recurring "worth something" theme with a luxe, gilded surface.
Why It Matters
This print unites two prized FAILE traits: the self-aware "worth something" motif and premium hand-pressed gold foil. The addition of acrylic hand finishing over foil on heavyweight rag makes each of the 50 impressions materially rich and partly unique. It stands as an elevated 2011 statement on value and desirability.
Collector Perspective
Collectors value the combination of gold foil, acrylic hand finishing, and the wry title, which together create a distinctive, luxe object. At 50 signed and numbered impressions it is scarce, and the acrylic passages individualize each print. As with all foil works, the metallic surface's condition is the critical factor in evaluating examples.
Historical Context
The "worth something" theme runs through several FAILE works, wryly commenting on art's shifting value, and rendering it in gold foil literalizes that idea with a gilded surface. This 2011 edition sits alongside FAILE's other gold-foil releases as part of the duo's exploration of luxe materials and self-referential wit.
FAQ
What materials are used?
Acrylic and hand-pressed gold foil on 335 gsm Coventry Rag.
What is the edition size?
It is an edition of 50, signed, stamped, and numbered.
How does it relate to other FAILE works?
It shares the recurring "worth something" theme seen across the duo's catalog.
What are its dimensions?
It measures 90 x 73 cm.
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.