Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford

Andy Warhol's Factory of Truth

13 snips
Aug 11, 2023
Alice Sherwood, author of "Authenticity," dives into the intriguing world of truth and fakery. She discusses the notorious case of Warhol's assistant, Gerard Malanga, who forged Che Guevara portraits, sparking debates on art's authenticity and value. The conversation explores how modern life grapples with authenticity amidst a sea of counterfeits. Sherwood highlights the evolving dynamics in the art market and questions whether our pursuit of the genuine has made us more vulnerable to deception.
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ANECDOTE

Warhol's Marilyn

  • Andy Warhol gifted a Marilyn Monroe portrait to a skeptical friend, predicting its future value.
  • In 2022, Warhol's Shot Sage Blue Marilyn sold for $195 million, becoming the most expensive 20th-century artwork.
ANECDOTE

Warhol's Che

  • Warhol's Che portrait, based on a photograph of Che Guevara's corpse, was exhibited and sold without Warhol's knowledge.
  • Gerard Malanga, Warhol's assistant, created and sold the Che prints.
INSIGHT

Malanga's Role

  • Gerard Malanga, Warhol's assistant, created many of Warhol's silkscreens.
  • Warhol openly acknowledged Malanga's contribution, even directing inquiries about his work to Malanga.
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