TOK_GFC_008 FASHION MOGUL _ VALENTINO GARAVANI / TOOMAS KAOS #TOKbyELFH
Fragments of Time Chronicles
15. detsember kell 23:39
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Jean-Michel Basquiat, one of the most influential American artists of the late 20th century, emerged as a groundbreaking figure in the New York art scene during the early 1980s. Born in Brooklyn in 1960, Basquiat started as a graffiti artist, gaining recognition under the moniker "SAMO" before transitioning to painting. His work is characterized by a raw, expressive style, blending elements of street art, symbolism, and abstraction, often addressing themes of race, identity, and social issues.
Basquiat’s big break came in 1981 when he had his first solo gallery exhibition in New York, and soon after, he was represented by influential figures like Annina Nosei. His work rapidly gained international attention, especially after collaborations with pop artist Andy Warhol, who became a significant influence in his career. Basquiat’s art from the early 1980s, including pieces like El Gran Espectaculo (The Nile) (1983), is considered a turning point in his development, showing a fusion of primitive aesthetics with contemporary symbols.
The painting El Gran Espectaculo (The Nile) was acquired by fashion mogul Valentino Garavani in 2005 for $5.2 million at Sotheby’s. This moment marked the convergence of the fashion and art worlds, as Garavani, an avid collector of contemporary art, was drawn to Basquiat’s striking imagery and profound social commentary. Valentino’s personal collection, curated by famed interior designer Jacques Grange, featured works that reflected his deep appreciation for artistry, and the painting hung in his Fifth Avenue apartment for nearly two decades.
In 2023, Valentino chose to auction El Gran Espectaculo (The Nile) again, where it sold for an astounding $67 million. This remarkable increase in value speaks to Basquiat’s enduring legacy and the high demand for his work in the art world. Basquiat’s influence continues to resonate, making him a pivotal figure in the conversation around modern and contemporary art.
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