Gauntlet Gallery — Ron English Print Index
Skull Star (Skull Star 11)
Summary
"Skull Star (Skull Star 11)" is a 2012 unique work, spray paint on Somerset Velvet 400gsm paper, signed by the artist. It belongs to the Star Skull Series, twenty original works on paper based on the Star Skull canvas from Ron English's Skin Deep body of work. As a hand-sprayed unique piece, no two in the series are identical.
Why It Matters
Unlike English's editioned prints, this is a one-of-a-kind original within a series of just twenty variants, each hand-executed in spray paint. That makes it materially distinct from the giclée editions in the index and directly connected to a specific canvas source from the Skin Deep works.
Collector Perspective
A unique, hand-sprayed original carries a different collector proposition than a numbered print: singularity rather than edition scarcity. As one of only twenty in the Star Skull Series, it commands the premium associated with originals. Documentation tying it to the series and canvas is essential; verify the artist's signature.
Historical Context
The star-skull is among English's signature motifs, and the Skin Deep body of work gave rise to this canvas and its twenty spray-paint offspring. Executed on heavyweight Somerset Velvet, the series bridges his graphic iconography and his hands-on painting practice in 2012.
FAQ
Is this a print or an original?
It is a unique original work in spray paint, not an edition print.
How many pieces are in the series?
Twenty unique works, each based on the Star Skull canvas.
What is it painted on?
Somerset Velvet 400gsm paper, measuring 76 x 76 cm.
What body of work is it linked to?
The Star Skull canvas from English's Skin Deep works.
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.