Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
The Elements - Air
Summary
The Elements - Air is a 2020 Damien Hirst giclée print from HENI Editions, Diasec-mounted on aluminium composite panel at 100 x 100 cm. Produced in an edition of 60 plus 10 artist's proofs, each numbered and signed, it forms one movement of Hirst's four-part meditation on the classical elements.
Why It Matters
Air carries the same limited, signed-and-numbered status as its siblings, placing it among the more collectible tiers of Hirst's editioned work. Its value proposition is amplified for those building the complete Elements quartet, where a coherent set of four commands more attention than any single panel on its own.
Collector Perspective
The imposing 100 x 100 cm scale and reflective Diasec surface make Air a statement piece. With just 70 total impressions including proofs, availability is limited. Set-builders should prioritise consistent condition across all four elements, and verify the hand signature and edition number, since the acrylic face-mount can show surface marks under raking light.
Historical Context
The 2020 Elements series translated Hirst's ornamental print aesthetic into the elemental themes of air, earth, fire, and water. Published by HENI Editions on Diasec-mounted aluminium, it represents Hirst's continued preference for durable modern substrates and a more traditional capped edition, contrasting with the open timed drops he released the same year.
FAQ
What is the edition size for Elements - Air?
Sixty impressions plus 10 artist's proofs, each individually numbered and signed.
Is Air signed by hand?
Yes, each impression in the Elements series is hand-signed and numbered, unlike Hirst's digitally signed timed editions.
How is the print mounted?
It is Diasec-mounted on an aluminium composite panel, a face-mounting method that yields a glossy, protective finish.
Should I collect all four Elements together?
Collectors often pursue the complete set of Air, Earth, Fire, and Water, as a matched quartet has stronger presentation appeal than a single panel.
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.