Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Gly-Gly-Ala
Summary
'Gly-Gly-Ala' is a 2016 woodcut spot print by Damien Hirst, published by Paragon Press and named for a chemical sequence. It presents his grid of colored dots through relief printmaking, with a sheet size of 107.7 x 86.5 cm, signed and numbered on the reverse in an edition of 55.
Why It Matters
The title's amino-acid shorthand ties the work explicitly to the biochemistry that underpins Hirst's pharmaceutical fascination. Executed as a woodcut, the spots gain the physical character of carved wood, marrying his systematic color grid with the warmth and irregularity of a traditional medium.
Collector Perspective
Part of the Paragon Press woodcut spot editions, this vertically oriented print offers collectors the spot motif in a scarcer, more tactile form than the standard screenprints. The edition of 55 and the distinctive chemical title make it a strong choice for those assembling a focused group of spot works.
Historical Context
Hirst's spots, produced across decades, are each named after chemical compounds to reinforce their connection to medicine and order. The woodcut spots continued that lineage into relief printmaking through Paragon Press, translating the artist's most iconic pattern into a handmade printed surface.
FAQ
What does the title refer to?
'Gly-Gly-Ala' is a chemical sequence (glycine-glycine-alanine), consistent with Hirst's practice of naming spot works after chemical compounds.
What is the medium and publisher?
It is a woodcut spot print published by Paragon Press.
What are its dimensions and edition size?
The sheet is 107.7 x 86.5 cm, signed and numbered on the reverse in an edition of 55.
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.