Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Forever (Small)
Summary
Forever (Small) is a 2020 Damien Hirst giclée print published by HENI Editions, laminated on an aluminium composite panel at 39 x 39 cm. Offered as a timed edition alongside a 78 x 78 cm large version, it bears a digital signature and typifies Hirst's decorative, pattern-forward print language of the period.
Why It Matters
Forever exemplifies HENI's timed-sale model, where the edition size is set by demand within a fixed window rather than a capped run. The result is a widely held but individually numbered-by-context work that made Hirst's aesthetic accessible to a broad audience, reinforcing his role in reshaping how contemporary editions reach collectors.
Collector Perspective
At 39 x 39 cm, this is the compact and generally more affordable of the two formats. With timed editions, the quality of the physical object matters more than a low edition number: collectors should verify the crisp digital signature and an unblemished laminated aluminium face. The rigid panel presents cleanly framed or floated but shows edge wear readily.
Historical Context
Released in 2020, Forever belongs to Hirst's sustained collaboration with HENI Editions, which pioneered timed, open-window print drops backed by aluminium substrates and digital signatures. This approach reflected the broader shift toward direct-to-collector online sales, and positioned Hirst's editions as some of the most accessible works by a blue-chip contemporary artist.
FAQ
Does Forever come signed?
It carries a digital signature, in keeping with HENI Editions' timed print releases rather than a hand-signed traditional edition.
What sizes was Forever released in?
Two sizes: a 39 x 39 cm small format and a 78 x 78 cm large format. This is the 39 x 39 cm version.
Is it printed on paper?
No, it is a laminated giclée print on an aluminium composite panel, a rigid contemporary support.
Was there a fixed edition number?
It was a timed edition, so the total was determined by how many sold within the sale window.
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.