Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
Hypothalamus Acetone Powder
Summary
Hypothalamus Acetone Powder is a 2012 signed silkscreen on paper, 59 x 53 inches, from an edition of 128 plus 10 artist's proofs. It was given free to visitors who completed the Spot Challenge, visiting all eleven Gagosian locations during Hirst's global exhibition The Complete Spot Paintings 1986–2011.
Why It Matters
This print exists as the prize for an unusual participatory event that turned Hirst's spot survey into a worldwide scavenger hunt. Each was signed and dedicated personally to the recipient, tying the work's provenance to a specific act of endurance across eleven galleries, a genuinely uncommon origin story for a Hirst edition.
Collector Perspective
The Spot Challenge origin gives every example a built-in narrative and, often, a personal dedication, which collectors find distinctive. The large 59 x 53 inch scale and small combined edition of 128 plus 10 APs reinforce its rarity. Because it was never sold at issue, market examples trace back to original challenge completers.
Historical Context
The Complete Spot Paintings 1986–2011 spanned all eleven Gagosian galleries worldwide simultaneously, an unprecedented single-artist undertaking. The Spot Challenge print, part of Hirst's spot lineage begun in 1986, commemorates that logistical feat and Hirst's ongoing engagement with scale, systems, and audience participation.
FAQ
How could someone get this print?
It was awarded free to anyone who visited all eleven Gagosian Gallery locations during The Complete Spot Paintings 1986–2011 and completed the Spot Challenge.
Is it signed?
Yes. Each print was signed and personally dedicated to the recipient by the artist.
What is the edition size?
128 prints plus 10 artist's proofs, silkscreen on paper, 59 x 53 inches.
Was it sold originally?
No. It was distributed free to challenge completers rather than sold, so provenance traces to the 2012 event.
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.