Run Wrake, a British animator, illustrator, and artist, left an indelible mark on the world of visual storytelling. Best known for his animated short "Rabbit", Wrake's work occupies a fascinating space where nostalgia, pop art, and the surreal intersect. Among his most coveted creations today are the Limited Edition Prints by Run Wrake, highly sought after by collectors, art enthusiasts, and fans of underground and experimental animation.

In this article, we delve into what makes these limited edition prints so special, explore some of the most iconic pieces, and offer guidance on where and how to purchase them.

Who Was Run Wrake?

Born in 1965 in Yemen and raised in England, Run Wrake studied at the Chelsea College of Arts and then completed his post-graduate studies at the Royal College of Art. He rose to prominence in the 1990s and early 2000s with his distinctive collage-style animation that blended mid-century educational illustrations with dark, ironic, and often surreal narratives.

His breakout piece, Rabbit (2005), was a BAFTA-nominated animated short film that showcased his iconic visual style — a fusion of 1950s children's book illustrations, morality plays, and consumerist satire.

Why Are Run Wrake's Limited Edition Prints So Valued?

1. Artistic Uniqueness

Run Wrake’s visual language is instantly recognizable. His work juxtaposes innocence with grotesque humor, using archival imagery and an analog aesthetic that feels both retro and timeless. These prints are not just reproductions; they are art objects that embody the same layered storytelling seen in his animation and illustration work.

2. Limited Supply, High Demand

As the name suggests, these are limited edition prints — usually produced in very small runs, often signed and numbered by Wrake before his untimely passing in 2012. Once sold out, they rarely reappear except in secondary art markets or through private collectors, making them especially valuable.

3. Legacy and Cult Status

Wrake’s influence continues in contemporary animation and illustration. His prints, therefore, are not only beautiful additions to any art collection but also hold historical and cultural significance as pieces of a unique artistic legacy.

Notable Limited Edition Prints by Run Wrake

1. The Flaming Lips | Zaireeka Print

This is one of the most collectible pieces in Wrake’s oeuvre. Created as an official art piece for the Flaming Lips' experimental album Zaireeka, the print features layered iconography — eyeballs, soundwaves, anatomical cutouts — all erupting in Wrake’s distinctive chaotic harmony. It's psychedelic, cerebral, and an excellent representation of his affinity for music-inspired art.

2. Subterrania | Meat Street

A bold, surrealist composition that blends street signage, comic art, and dystopian elements. Meat Street comments on consumerism and identity with humor and a bite of cynicism — classic Wrake.

3. Educational Book Series-Inspired Prints

Some of Wrake’s prints mirror the collage techniques used in Rabbit, drawing on mid-century British educational books. These works often pair illustrations of animals, children, and objects with absurd or subversive captions.

Where to Buy Run Wrake’s Limited Edition Prints

Due to their limited nature, original Run Wrake prints can be difficult to find. However, there are a few key places where collectors can search:

1. Official Website or Artist Estate (If Active)

Occasionally, the estate or collaborators may reissue or sell remaining stock of limited prints. Always check the official Run Wrake website or affiliated gallery.

2. Art Galleries and Exhibitions

Galleries that have exhibited Wrake’s work in the past — especially in London, Berlin, and New York — sometimes sell his work. Keep an eye on contemporary art spaces or pop-surrealist-focused galleries.

3. Specialty Art Stores and Print Shops

Certain shops like Subterrania, known for exclusive collaborations with music and pop artists, occasionally offer rare prints — including those by Wrake.

4. Online Art Marketplaces

Platforms like Artsper, Etsy, Saatchi Art, and eBay may host verified resellers or individual collectors offering original prints. Be cautious of provenance and authentication when buying from individuals.

Tips for Collecting Limited Edition Prints by Run Wrake

• Verify Authenticity: Look for signatures, edition numbers, and provenance.
• Use Archival Framing: To preserve print quality, always frame with UV glass and acid-free materials.
• Join Collector Communities: Forums, Discord channels, or Reddit subgroups focused on indie illustrators and animation art often share alerts when rare Wrake prints surface.
• Follow Estate or Archival Accounts: If available, follow Run Wrake's estate-managed social media or newsletter for news on re-releases or exhibitions.

Conclusion

Limited Edition Prints by Run Wrake represent more than just visual art — they are cultural artifacts that encapsulate an entire philosophy of image-making. Bold, ironic, and unforgettable, these prints are a gateway into Wrake’s strange, smart, and sometimes sinister world. Whether you're a longtime admirer of his animation or a new collector discovering his style, owning one of these prints is both a privilege and a piece of history.