Gauntlet Gallery — Ron English Print Index
Marilyn Comic (First Edition)
Summary
"Marilyn Comic" is a 2011 work combining screen print over an archival pigment print on Archival Hot Press Bright 300gsm paper, edition of 50, signed and numbered, at 76 x 56 cm. Ron English renders Marilyn Monroe in a comic-book idiom, layering a hand-pulled screen over a giclée base to fuse his two most-cited references: Marilyn and pop illustration.
Why It Matters
The hybrid screen-over-pigment technique gives "Marilyn Comic" a layered surface that distinguishes it from single-process prints. Casting Marilyn in a comic style extends English's Warhol-rooted fascination with the icon while injecting the graphic energy of comic art, a combination that defines much of his image-making.
Collector Perspective
The screen-print-over-giclée construction is a technical selling point, and the Marilyn subject keeps the work within English's most collectible thematic strand. At an edition of 50 on archival hot press stock, it offers solid quality and scarcity. Verify the signature, numbering, and the layered screen surface.
Historical Context
Marilyn is a touchstone across English's catalog and a deliberate homage to Warhol's Pop portraits. "Marilyn Comic" reframes her through comic-book visual language in 2011, using a mixed screen-and-pigment process characteristic of his more elaborate UK editions.
FAQ
What technique is used for Marilyn Comic?
A screen print over an archival pigment (giclée) print.
Who is the subject?
Marilyn Monroe, rendered in a comic-book style.
What is the edition size?
50, signed and numbered.
What are the dimensions?
76 x 56 cm.
About the Artist
Ron English is an American contemporary artist born in 1959, widely regarded as a founding figure of the "POPaganda" movement, which fuses pop art with political and cultural satire. He is known for subverting corporate advertising and cultural icons, creating characters such as MC Supersized and the three-eyed "Temper Tot," and reimagining figures like Ronald McDonald and cartoon mascots. English has worked across billboards, canvas, murals, and collectible art toys, and his imagery has appeared in films and album covers. His work critiques consumerism, mass media, and branding through a bright, hyper-pop visual language.
Collecting Ron English at Gauntlet Gallery
Where should I begin with Ron English?
Signed, numbered screenprints and giclees featuring his signature characters are strong entry points, while hand-embellished editions and originals sit at the top. His art toys and figures also draw dedicated collectors. Gauntlet Gallery prioritizes clean, well-registered impressions with complete signing.
How is authenticity documented?
Ron English works are sold with documented studio provenance and the artist's signature and numbering. We photograph the exact piece you receive, including the signature and edition details, so you can confirm authenticity before purchase.
What drives Ron English's value?
Iconic characters, edition size, hand-embellishment, condition, and documented provenance are the main value drivers. Low-numbered, embellished, and original works consistently outperform open or larger editions.