The Journal. The $6 Million Banana’s Appeal
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Dec 6, 2024 Join Kelly Crow, a WSJ reporter specializing in the art market, as she reveals the surprising journey of a banana duct-taped to a wall that sold for $6.2 million. She explores its debut at Art Basel 2019 and the viral sensation it sparked. The conversation covers art ownership, the absurdity of high valuations, and how social consensus influences perceived worth. Kelly also discusses the intriguing parallels between this iconic artwork and the world of NFTs, shedding light on contemporary art's complex dynamics and cultural implications.
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Initial Dismissal of the Banana
- Kelly Crow initially dismissed the duct-taped banana artwork at Art Basel Miami.
- It was priced at $120,000 and seemed like another quirky piece.
Banana's Challenge to the Art World
- The art world is often perceived as a rigged game or a joke.
- The banana's simplicity and price challenged this perception.
Banana's Viral Fame
- The banana artwork, titled "Comedian," became a viral sensation.
- Multiple editions sold for $120,000-$150,000, one was donated to the Guggenheim.