Gauntlet Gallery — Hijack Print Index
The Beating Heart
Summary
"The Beating Heart" (2014) is Hijack's second silkscreen print — a five-color screenprint on archival art paper, issued at a substantial 38 x 38 inches. Each sheet is signed, numbered, and marked with the artist's thumbprint on the verso, pairing a bolder color program with the personal authentication that defines his early work.
Why It Matters
As Hijack's announced second print, "The Beating Heart" documents his early progression — the jump from one-color simplicity toward a richer five-color composition. Its large square 38 x 38 format signals growing ambition in scale, making it a useful marker of how quickly the young artist expanded his printmaking vocabulary after his 2013 debut.
Collector Perspective
The five-color build and imposing square format give this print more wall presence than his single-ink editions, appealing to collectors who want scale and color depth. The retained thumbprint on the verso keeps the personal authentication intact. As an early second release, it holds a defined place in the sequence collectors use to map his catalogue.
Historical Context
Released in 2014, close on the heels of his debut, "The Beating Heart" reflects Hijack finding his footing within the Mr. Brainwash-adjacent Los Angeles street-art milieu. The move to five colors and a large square sheet shows an artist testing the technical range of screenprinting while holding onto the emotive, message-driven register of his earliest work.
FAQ
Is this Hijack's second print?
Yes. "The Beating Heart" was announced as Hijack's second silkscreen print, following his 2013 debut.
How many colors does it use?
It is a five-color screenprint, a step up in color complexity from his earlier one-color work.
How big is the print?
It measures 38 x 38 inches — a large square format on archival art paper.
Does it carry the thumbprint like his other prints?
Yes. Each sheet is signed, numbered, and marked with the artist's thumbprint on the verso.
About the Artist
Hijack is a Los Angeles-based street artist, the son of the French urban artist Blek le Rat, who is often credited as a pioneer of stencil graffiti and an influence on Banksy. Working primarily in stencil and mixed media, Hijack creates satirical, pop-culture-charged imagery that comments on consumerism, politics, and celebrity, frequently juxtaposing childhood innocence with adult themes. He has exhibited in galleries across the United States and internationally, and his editions and originals have attracted a growing collector base within the contemporary urban-art market.
Collecting Hijack at Gauntlet Gallery
How should I start collecting Hijack?
Signed, numbered editions are the natural entry point, with hand-embellished prints and original stencil-on-canvas works representing the higher tier. Look for bold, recognizable imagery and clean condition. Gauntlet Gallery selects pieces with complete signing and documented release history.
How is authenticity handled?
Hijack works are offered with documented studio provenance and the artist's signature and numbering. We photograph the specific piece you will receive, capturing the signature and edition details so you can verify before buying.
What drives Hijack's value?
Scarcity (edition size and unique works), subject matter, hand-embellishment, condition, and provenance tied to a documented release are the primary value drivers. Originals and low-numbered embellished prints command the strongest prices.