Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
H18-2 Chameleon
Summary
H18-2 Chameleon (2024) is the second work in Hirst's five-part H18 series, a Diasec-mounted Giclée on aluminium composite panel at 85 x 140 cm. Published by HENI in an edition of 180 plus 20 APs, its title nods to shifting color and camouflage across a dense, kaleidoscopic field.
Why It Matters
Within the series, Chameleon extends Hirst's play with perception and transformation. The consistent 85 x 140 cm format and matched edition size of 180 plus 20 APs make the five prints read as a deliberate suite, which supports demand from collectors pursuing the full grouping.
Collector Perspective
The aluminium-panel Diasec build gives the wide format a crisp, reflective surface well suited to the piece's color activity. A fixed run of 180 plus 20 APs sets clear scarcity. As H18-2, it sits mid-sequence, so buyers assembling the set should track the surrounding H18 numbers when they surface.
Historical Context
The chameleon as a symbol of adaptation and illusion aligns with Hirst's long fascination with how surface and pattern manipulate the eye. Issued via HENI in 2024, the work belongs to the publisher's series of large-format, aluminium-mounted Giclées that define his recent editioned practice.
FAQ
Where does Chameleon fall in the series?
It is H18-2, the second of five prints in the H18 series alongside Harlequin, Psychedelic, Splendour, and Intricacy.
How large is the edition?
180 plus 20 artist's proofs, matching the other prints in the series.
What are the dimensions?
85 x 140 cm, a wide landscape format shared across the series.
How is it authenticated?
Each impression is issued and numbered through HENI, Hirst's editions publisher, under the H18-2 catalogue reference.
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.