Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Fruitful (Small)
Summary
Fruitful (Small) is a 2020 HENI Editions giclée print by Damien Hirst, laminated onto an aluminium composite panel at 39 x 39 cm. Released as a timed edition alongside a 78 x 78 cm large format, it carries Hirst's digital signature rather than a hand-inked one, reflecting the artist's embrace of open, technology-driven print releases.
Why It Matters
The piece sits at the intersection of Hirst's cheerful, decorative aesthetic and HENI's timed-edition model, which let collectors buy directly within a fixed window rather than through a fixed numbered run. As an accessible entry point into Hirst's editioned output, Fruitful represents his ongoing strategy of democratising ownership while keeping his visual signatures front and centre.
Collector Perspective
The 39 x 39 cm format is the smaller, more affordable of the two sizes, making it approachable for newer collectors. Because timed editions have no capped number announced upfront, condition and the pristine laminated aluminium surface become key differentiators. Buyers should confirm the digital signature and intact lamination, since surface scuffs on the panel are difficult to remedy.
Historical Context
By 2020, Hirst had partnered extensively with HENI Editions to release prints under timed-sale mechanics, a departure from traditional fixed-edition printmaking. Fruitful belongs to this era of experimentation with digital signatures and aluminium substrates, part of a broader move that made his editioned work more widely available during a period of surging online art buying.
FAQ
Is Fruitful (Small) hand-signed by Damien Hirst?
No. It carries a digital signature rather than a hand-inked one, consistent with HENI Editions' timed print releases from this period.
What is the difference between the small and large versions?
The work was released in two sizes, 39 x 39 cm (small) and 78 x 78 cm (large). This entry is the smaller 39 x 39 cm format.
What surface is the print produced on?
It is a laminated giclée print mounted on an aluminium composite panel, giving it a rigid, contemporary presentation rather than paper.
How many were made?
It was issued as a timed edition, meaning the final quantity was determined by sales within a set window rather than a pre-announced number.
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.