Los Angeles, California – As one of the world’s most influential figures, Kim Kardashian is known not only for her fashion and beauty ventures but also for her passion for collecting fine art. Recently, Kim garnered attention again when she revealed that she owns an original painting by Jean-Michel Basquiat worth over $5 million. The painting, titled “Both Poles”, is proudly displayed in her California home, showcasing her refined taste and appreciation for art.
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The Artwork “Both Poles” – A Masterpiece by Basquiat
Created in 1982, “Both Poles” is one of Basquiat’s notable works that exemplifies his distinctive style. Using materials such as acrylic, oilstick, and paper collage on canvas, the piece is mounted with tied wood supports, adding a unique and complex texture to the artwork. This piece is considered a significant part of Basquiat’s career, with its exploration of themes like wealth versus poverty, integration versus segregation, and the interplay of text and imagery.
“Both Poles” juxtaposes the North and South, heaven and earth, excavation and transmission through symbols evoking mountains, the moon, and a power pylon. According to the Jordan Schnitzer Museum of Art, the work represents contrasting aspects of life that Basquiat sought to explore.
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The Acquisition Journey of This High-Value Artwork
Kim Kardashian acquired “Both Poles” after it was auctioned at Christie’s in 2017 for approximately $4.9 million. In 2020, it was resold for over $5.1 million, further appreciating in value. For Kim, owning this painting not only reflects her passion for art but also represents her investment in high-value pieces.
Kim has often shared her love for modern art, and Basquiat’s “Both Poles” is not only a valuable asset but also a testament to her refined artistic sensibility. The painting is currently displayed in a tasteful white hallway, allowing its intricate details to stand out. Kris Jenner, Kim’s mother, shared images of the painting during a recent party at Kim’s home, leaving fans in awe of the sophisticated art space Kim has curated.
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The Kardashian Family’s Love for Fine Art
Kim Kardashian is not the only member of the Kardashian-Jenner family with an appreciation for art. Her sister, Kylie Jenner, also owns a Basquiat painting, which she showcased during a house tour with Architectural Digest in 2019. Kylie’s art collection also includes pieces by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol and Damien Hirst, demonstrating that the Kardashian family’s love for art is not just a personal interest but an integral part of their opulent lifestyle.
Additionally, Kim’s younger sister Kendall Jenner owns a $75,000 wall sculpture by artist James Turrell, prominently displayed in her foyer. She credits Kim and her ex-husband Kanye West for introducing her to Turrell’s art, which has since become a personal favorite.
In 2023, Kourtney Kardashian received “Love! Somethin'” by Yoshitomo Nara, a drawing gifted by her husband, Travis Barker, for her 44th birthday. According to Sotheby’s, the artwork was sold at auction earlier that year for around $161,819, highlighting the couple’s shared love for contemporary art.
The Significance of Art for Kim Kardashian
For Kim Kardashian, art is more than just decoration; it is a way to express herself and her lifestyle. Kim has shared that she views the art pieces in her home as sources of inspiration and as symbols of valuing creativity. Owning a Basquiat, an artist celebrated for his profound societal insights and exploration of life’s contrasts, perfectly aligns with Kim’s bold and independent personality.
Besides owning high-value artworks, Kim has shown a genuine appreciation and understanding of art. She not only collects famous pieces but also seeks to understand the deeper meaning behind each work, as reflected in her careful placement of each piece within her home.
The Kardashian Family’s Influence on the Art World
The Kardashian-Jenner family has not only made waves in beauty and fashion but has also influenced the art world. Their appreciation for contemporary art has sparked a trend, inspiring fans and the public to take an interest in art. From Basquiat and Warhol to sculptures by Turrell and Nara, the Kardashian family has shown that they are not afraid to invest in art as a way to express their style and values.
Kim Kardashian’s ownership of Basquiat’s “Both Poles” is not just a symbol of wealth but a testament to her love of art and her unique aesthetic. By displaying this masterpiece in her home, Kim not only showcases her sophistication but also her passion for meaningful art. The Kardashian-Jenner family is helping to shape the trend of art collecting among the wealthy, and they are likely to continue making a mark in the art world in the years to come.
