Prepare to embrace the unusual: significant changes may soon adorn your living room wall. A rare, signed self-portrait by David Bowie is set to be auctioned, featuring his handprints — though it comes with a hefty price tag.
Created by the legendary singer in 1996, this artwork will be available for bidding for the first time during Sotheby’s Modern British and Irish Art Day Auction on October 15.
The expected selling price ranges from £35,000 to £55,000 (approximately $66,000 CAD to $104,000 CAD).
Originally, Bowie presented the painting to his gallerist in St Ives. After being held in a private collection for thirty years, the piece is now on display in London ahead of the auction.
CBC’s Laurie Brown, who interviewed David Bowie multiple times, reflects on the iconic musician’s evolving persona over the years.
This artwork is part of a series of eight large portraits he created during the mid-1990s, with this particular piece being the most expressive of the collection.
“This self-portrait showcases David Bowie at his most imaginative and introspective. His direct gaze and the handprints incorporated into the artwork forge an unusually personal bond with the artist,” stated Sotheby’s senior specialist Jen Hardie in a press release.
“With its bold colors, it reflects the vigor of Bowie’s painting in the 1990s and presents a rare chance to see him not just as a musician or cultural figure, but as a legitimate artist.”
If it doesn’t find a place on your wall, you can still admire it here.
This self-portrait, crafted by David Bowie in 1996, is being auctioned for the first time at Sotheby’s Modern British and Irish Art Day Auction on October 15. (Courtesy Sotheby’s)
In this paper-based artwork, the multifaceted musician, actor, and performer gazes directly at the audience, accentuating his distinctively mismatched pupils — one larger than the other, creating the illusion of differently colored irises.
Additionally, the handprints that Bowie pressed onto either side of the painting’s lower section add a particularly personal touch.
So, if you’ve ever desired a truly hands-on piece of Starman memorabilia, this is your opportunity.