Gauntlet Gallery — Ron English Print Index
Star Skull
Summary
"Star Skull" is a 24 by 24 inch archival pigment print on 290gsm Moab fine-art paper, released in an edition of 50. The square format frames English's recurring skull motif with star imagery, a compact, graphic composition on museum-grade stock suited to standard gallery framing.
Why It Matters
The skull is one of English's most repeated and collectible symbols, and pairing it with stars nods to the patriotic-and-mortal juxtapositions common in his work. An edition of 50 on Moab paper strikes a balance between accessibility and scarcity, making it an approachable entry into his pigment-print editions.
Collector Perspective
At 24 inches square with a run of 50, this is a wall-friendly, moderately scarce piece. Confirm the /50 numbering and any signature placement. Square formats simplify framing but still benefit from UV glazing to protect the pigment. Surface cleanliness and flat storage are the key condition factors on Moab stock.
Historical Context
Skulls recur throughout English's POPaganda output, functioning as memento-mori counterweights to his candy-colored characters. Released in 2019 on the Moab papers that defined his archival editions of the period, Star Skull sits alongside his grin-skull sculptures as another treatment of the same enduring motif.
FAQ
What size is Star Skull?
24 x 24 inches, a square format on 290gsm Moab fine-art paper.
How large is the edition?
An edition of 50.
What printing process is used?
An archival pigment print, a museum-grade method.
Is the skull a common English motif?
Yes, the skull is one of his most repeated and collectible symbols.
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.