A banana duct-taped to a wall has fetched KSh 803 million at a Sotheby’s New York auction. The artwork, titled Comedian, gained global attention after its debut at Art Basel Miami Beach in 2019. Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan created the conceptual piece, which features a ripe yellow banana affixed to a wall at a specific height of 160 centimeters.
The winning bid came from Justin Sun, a Chinese art collector and founder of a cryptocurrency platform. Sun described the artwork as a cultural symbol that connects the worlds of art, memes, and cryptocurrency.
“This is not just an artwork,” Sun shared on the X platform. “It represents a cultural phenomenon that bridges art, memes, and cryptocurrency. I believe it will spark thought and discussion, cementing its place in history.”
Bidding for the unconventional piece began at KSh 103 million and was originally expected to sell for between KSh 129 million and KSh 195 million. The auctioneer, amused by the bidding process, joked, “These are words I never thought I would say: Five million for a banana.”
What makes Comedian unique is its ephemeral nature. The banana and duct tape are meant to be replaced in every installation. In fact, during a previous display, the banana was famously eaten. Sun has also expressed his intention to eat the banana, calling it part of the artwork’s experience.
Maurizio Cattelan, known for provocative works like a gold toilet and a sculpture of the pope struck by a meteorite, described Comedian as a commentary designed to provoke thought and discussion.
The piece’s viral fame reflects the ever-evolving boundaries of contemporary art, where humor and absurdity often meet deep cultural critiques.
Art as a Career
In other news, TUKO.co.ke reported on Victor Omondi, a self-taught artist from Nairobi. Growing up in the 1990s, Omondi nurtured his passion for painting and drawing. Today, he works as a full-time realist artist, showcasing Nairobi's beauty through art. His journey began at Bidii Primary School, where he honed his skills in art clubs and competitions.
Both stories underscore the power of art in shaping culture, sparking conversations, and challenging perceptions.
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