Gauntlet Gallery — Complete Damien Hirst Print Index
The Elements - Water
Summary
The Elements - Water is a 2020 Damien Hirst giclée print from HENI Editions, Diasec-mounted on aluminium composite panel at 100 x 100 cm. Released in an edition of 60 plus 10 artist's proofs, each numbered and signed, it completes Hirst's four-part Elements series alongside earth, air, and fire.
Why It Matters
Water rounds out the Elements quartet, and its cool tonality provides balance within a complete set. As a capped, hand-signed and numbered edition of 60 plus proofs, it belongs to the more limited end of Hirst's editioned output, offering collectors a formally authenticated work rather than an open timed release.
Collector Perspective
The large 100 x 100 cm format and glossy Diasec finish give Water considerable presence. With just 70 impressions including proofs, availability is constrained. For set-builders, matching condition and framing across all four elements maximises the display effect. Confirm the hand signature and edition number, and check the acrylic face for surface marks.
Historical Context
The final element in Hirst's 2020 HENI Editions series, Water extends his ornamental print aesthetic to elemental imagery. Its Diasec-mounted aluminium construction reflects his preference for robust modern substrates, and the signed-and-numbered capped edition places it among the more traditionally collectible works within his wide-ranging print catalogue.
FAQ
What is the edition size of Elements - Water?
Sixty impressions plus 10 artist's proofs, each numbered and signed.
Is Water signed by Damien Hirst?
Yes, each impression is hand-signed and numbered, unlike his digitally signed timed editions.
How is the piece constructed?
It is a Diasec-mounted giclée on aluminium composite panel, face-mounted behind acrylic for a glossy protective finish.
Does Water complete the Elements series?
Yes. Together with Earth, Air, and Fire, it forms the complete four-part Elements set.
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.