London – Bonhams is delighted to once again participate at Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair for the 2025 edition, previewing the online auction, Paper Trails: 70 Years of Printmaking. This thoughtfully curated sale charts the evolution of contemporary printmaking over the past seven decades, showcasing a dynamic spectrum of works that span bold experimentation, technical innovation, and enduring mastery. From vivid abstractions to iconic editions by leading figures in the field, Paper Trails offers a compelling dialogue between tradition and technology. Reflecting the energy and diversity of the artistic production, the auction celebrates printmaking as one of the most vital and accessible forms of contemporary art today. The sale will be online from 11 – 20 November 2025, with an opportunity to view auction highlights in person at the fair.

A highlight of the sale will be Untitled V, from The Figure Portfolio, after Jean-Michel Basquiat (American, 1960–1988). The posthumous release of Jean-Michel Basquiat's iconic The Figure Portfolio breathes new life into a beloved series, exploring themes of identity, power, and social commentary through an array of energetic symbols that are signature to his practice. Originally created in 1982 and reissued in 2023, printed by Brand X Editions and published by Flatiron Editions, New York. It carries an estimate of £18,000 – 25,000.

Another standout is Happy Chopper by Banksy (British, born 1974), a 2003 screenprint numbered 626/750 and published by Pictures on Walls, London, this iconic image exemplifies Banksy's subversive wit and graphic clarity, estimated at £12,000 – 18,000.

Also featured is Maurice by David Hockney R.A. (British, born 1937), an etching with aquatint, from 1998. Signed and numbered 33/35, the work was printed by Maurice Payne in Los Angeles and co-published by the artist and Pace Editions Inc., New York. Hockney and Master Printer Payne first met through Editions Alecto, forming a lasting friendship and creative partnership that continues to this day. Making the striking etching Maurice, a deeply personal portrait, the work is estimated at £10,000 – 15,000.

Other highlights include:

•Damien Hirst (British, born 1965), Domini Est Terra, from Psalm Prints.
Screenprint in colours with diamond dust, 2009, on wove paper, signed and numbered 3/50 in pencil (there were also ten artist's proofs), published by Other Criteria, London, with their and the artist's blindstamp, the full sheet, framed.
Estimate: £7,500 – 10,000

•Dame Tracey Emin (British, born 1963), A Feeling of Shock
Lithograph in colours, 2022, on Somerset wove paper, signed, titled, dated and numbered 28/50 in pencil, printed by Counter Studio, Margate, published by Counter Editions, London, the full sheet, framed.
Estimate: £5,000 – 7,000

•David Shrigley (British, born 1968), Untitled (I Am Listening)
Screenprint in colours, 2020, on Somerset wove paper, signed with the initials, dated and numbered 44/125 in pencil verso, printed by Counter Studios, Margate, published by Counter Editions, London, the full sheet, unframed.
Estimate: £4,000 – 6,000

Carolin von Massenbach, Head of Prints & Multiples at Bonhams commented: "Printmaking has always been a space for radical creativity and technical finesse. Paper Trails captures this beautifully, tracing how artists have pushed the boundaries of the medium while staying rooted in its democratic spirit. From Basquiat's raw symbolism to Hockney's intimate etchings, the sale is a testament to the enduring relevance of print in contemporary art. Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair is an exciting partner for Bonhams' Prints & Multiples department, which has been highly successful in offering the established alongside the up-and-coming - we are thrilled to be part once again."

Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair

Woolwich Contemporary Print Fair, the leading international art fair for original contemporary print, presents a unique alternative model that is revolutionising the traditional art market, disrupting the elitist nature of art fairs, and pushing the boundaries of print.

The global art platform hosts 50% specialist galleries alongside 50% independent artists selected by industry experts from an international artist open call, who sit alongside celebrated names and ambitious works in our Curated Hang.

Delivering innovative programming and social impact through progressive outreach initiatives, WCPF nurtures early-stage collectors and provides significant opportunities for artists worldwide. It is the pioneer in championing contemporary print; challenging misconceptions of what print is and situates the Fair within a wider contemporary art conversation.

Together with creatives, collectors, visitors and the next generation of art lovers, Woolwich Contemporary amalgamates the best in international fairs while curating multiple access points for all audiences to enjoy an authentic fine art experience