Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Beautiful Mickey
Summary
Beautiful Mickey (2015) is a silkscreen published by Other Criteria in an edition of 50, at roughly 136 x 137 cm. Based on an original Hirst painting, it reimagines Mickey Mouse through his spin painting technique, whirling color into a centrifugal burst. It was the first print Other Criteria issued illustrating Hirst's spin method, and each is signed and numbered.
Why It Matters
Beautiful Mickey is significant as Other Criteria's first spin-technique print with Hirst, and it was produced alongside the 2012 Mickey spot painting. Reinterpreting Mickey at Disney's invitation, Hirst joins Warhol, Lichtenstein and Oldenburg in claiming the icon, here through the energetic, chance-driven spin process.
Collector Perspective
The large near-square format and the spin technique set this apart from the spot-based Mickey prints. At an edition of 50, it is a scarce, statement-scale work with a documented Disney tie-in and 'First Edition' status. Collectors weigh its size, technique and pedigree; signing and numbering support provenance.
Historical Context
Hirst's spin paintings, made on a rotating platform so paint flings outward, date to the mid-1990s. Beautiful Mickey applies that method to Disney's character at the studio's invitation, and was fabricated alongside the Mickey spot painting of 2012, linking two of Hirst's signature techniques.
FAQ
What technique does Beautiful Mickey use?
Hirst's spin painting technique, translated into a silkscreen; it was Other Criteria's first spin print with the artist.
Was it authorized by Disney?
Yes, Hirst reimagined Mickey at Disney's invitation, joining Warhol, Lichtenstein and Oldenburg.
How large is the edition?
Fifty, each signed and numbered, published by Other Criteria.
How does it relate to the Mickey spot painting?
It was fabricated alongside the 2012 Mickey spot painting.
About the Artist
Damien Hirst (born 1965, Bristol) is a British artist and the most prominent figure of the Young British Artists (YBAs). Rising to fame in the late 1980s and 1990s, he built a practice around mortality, science, religion, and beauty — from formaldehyde-preserved animals to his Spot, Spin, and Butterfly (Kaleidoscope) series. Hirst is also one of the most prolific printmakers in contemporary art, releasing extensive signed editions through his own science-led studio and, more recently, the HENI imprint. His work has commanded record prices and defined the market for blue-chip contemporary editions.
Collecting Damien Hirst at Gauntlet Gallery
Which Damien Hirst prints should I collect?
Signed, numbered editions from his signature series — Spots, Butterflies/Kaleidoscope, Spins, Cherry Blossoms, and skull works — are the collectible core. Look for strong condition and the artist's pencil signature. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes complete, well-documented impressions.
How is a Hirst print authenticated?
We sell Hirst works with documented provenance and the edition's signature and numbering; many carry HENI or studio documentation. Each piece is photographed exactly as it ships, including signature and edition details.
What drives value?
Series and image (iconic Spots and Butterflies lead), edition size, format and scale, condition, and provenance all drive value. Hand-signed, low-numbered, and diamond-dust or foilblock works command premiums.