A Gap in the Clouds (2020) – David Shrigley Screenprint

About the Work

A Gap in the Clouds (2020) is a striking David Shrigley screenprint that juxtaposes a dense, charcoal-grey cloudscape with a brilliant shaft of yellow light piercing through the gloom. Set against a clean, off-white background, the composition uses bold hand-drawn lines to render the heavy cloud and its contrasting, radiant sunbeam. This visual tension highlights the artist's signature approach of combining minimalist graphics with immediate, profound messaging.

By depicting a literal silver lining, the work serves as an endearing emblem of optimism, capturing the delicate human tendency to seek hope within bleak circumstances. The hand-rendered text floating beneath the celestial imagery anchors the piece, transforming a simple meteorological event into a poignant metaphor for mental clarity. This synthesis of text and image creates an intimate space where viewers can find solace in the absurdity of the everyday.

David Shrigley

Nominated for the Turner Prize in 2013, the celebrated British artist has carved out a unique position in contemporary art through his darkly humorous commentary. His monumental Fourth Plinth commission in Trafalgar Square, alongside frequent participation in the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition, has solidified his status within major British cultural institutions. Today, his works are held in prestigious public collections worldwide, including Tate in London and the Museum of Modern Art in New York.

Translating his immediate, ink-on-paper drawings into the realm of fine art multiples allows the artist to reach a broader audience while preserving the raw immediacy of his original drafts. Each authorised David Shrigley print acts as a capsule of quick-witted philosophy, maintaining the intentional imperfections and spelling corrections that define his aesthetic. Consequently, these editions translate the intimacy of his personal journals into powerful public statements.

Screenprint Process

Released in a strictly restricted run, this particular edition demonstrates the exceptional material standards maintained by the artist's studio. The production utilises a sophisticated 9 colour screenprint process, resulting in highly saturated pigments that elevate the simple graphic form. This rich application of ink is further enhanced by a subtle varnish overlay, adding a tactile dimension to the Somerset satin tub sized 410gsm paper.

Executing this complex layer alignment allows the master printers to capture the subtle nuances of the artist's original ink strokes. Published in collaboration with Stephen Friedman Gallery, this David Shrigley limited edition print exemplifies how modern printmaking techniques can preserve the tactile qualities of spontaneous handwriting. The final composition emerges as a beautifully crafted object that bridges the gap between commercial graphic design and fine art.

Collectability

The artist's distinctive style has cultivated robust collector interest, particularly for works that balance text with iconic central motifs. Because his work speaks a universal language of existential wit, these graphical releases are highly sought after by international collectors. The inclusion of recognisable imagery makes such works instantly identifiable, maintaining their strong secondary-market presence.

Representing a major colour work from his celebrated 2020 printmaking period, the piece remains a particularly desirable example of Shrigley's printmaking practice. Given the modest edition size of just 125, opportunities to acquire this specific print are increasingly limited. This scarcity, paired with the artist's global institutional standing, ensures that A Gap in the Clouds continues to hold an appeal for those seeking to expand their contemporary collections.

Artwork Specifications

• Artist: David Shrigley (British, b. 1968)
• Title: A Gap in the Clouds
• Medium: 9 colour screenprint with a varnish overlay on Somerset satin tub sized 410gsm paper
• Dimensions: 76 x 56 cm
• Edition: Edition of 125
• Year: 2020
• Publisher: Jealous Gallery
• Markings: Signed, numbered and dated on the back