Banksy’s “Crude Oil (Vettriano)” sold for £4.3m at auction, depicting a reimagined Vettriano piece. The sale occurred after Vettriano’s death at 73. Mark Hoppus, who bought it in 2011, plans to donate part of the proceeds to charity, highlighting the personal significance of the painting. Vettriano was a self-taught artist who achieved notable success in the art world.
A Banksy reimagining of Scottish artist Jack Vettriano’s work, titled “Crude Oil (Vettriano),” has sold at auction for £4.3m ($5.4m). It was sold by Blink 182 bassist Mark Hoppus, who acquired it in 2011. The piece features Vettriano’s iconic “The Singing Butler” but includes figures in hazmat suits disposing of an oil drum, highlighting contemporary issues.
The auction, held at Sotheby’s in London, occurred just days after Vettriano’s death at 73. Initially, the painting was estimated to fetch between £3m and £5m. Fully hand-painted using oil and spray paints, it was first exhibited in 2005, initially displayed in a shop window in Notting Hill. Vettriano’s original painting had previously sold for £744,800 in 2004, marking a record for Scottish art at auction.
Hoppus purchased the painting after visiting the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles, describing it as “unmistakable” and stating he and his wife fell in love with it immediately. Portions of the proceeds from the sale will benefit several charities, including Children’s Hospital Los Angeles and the California Fire Foundation. Hoppus expressed emotional attachment, stating the painting has been a part of their family life for over a decade, witnessing significant moments.
Vettriano, self-taught after being gifted watercolour paints at 21, gained prominence in 1989 when two of his paintings sold on the first day of a Royal Scottish Academy show. He later achieved international acclaim, having exhibitions in major cities worldwide. His recent death, confirmed by his publicist, was not deemed suspicious by French authorities.
The record-breaking sale of Banksy’s reinterpretation of Vettriano’s work highlights the poignant intersection of contemporary art and social commentary. As Vettriano’s legacy continues through this sale, it also underscores the sentimental value of art in personal lives. The funds raised from this sale will support important charities, exemplifying how art can contribute to community wellbeing.
Original Source: www.bbc.com