Today, Explained The case of the fake Basquiats
Jul 13, 2022
Brett Sokol, a contributing writer for the New York Times, joins Alfredo Martinez, a former Basquiat forger turned acclaimed artist, to unravel a thrilling art scandal. They dive into the world of Basquiat forgeries and the dramatic FBI intervention at the Orlando Museum of Art. Alfredo shares his fascinating journey from the underground art scene to featuring in MoMA's collection. The conversation navigates the moral complexities of art forgery, community trust, and the impact of a legendary artist's legacy.
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The Auctioned Art
- A screenwriter's storage unit was auctioned off, revealing 25 alleged Basquiat artworks.
- These works became the center of an FBI investigation and museum exhibition.
Basquiat's Soaring Value
- Jean-Michel Basquiat's art has skyrocketed in value, becoming highly sought after.
- This demand extends to Basquiat-related merchandise, fueling a market ripe for forgeries.
A Questionable Purchase
- In 2012, three individuals bought the alleged Basquiats for $15,000 after their discovery.
- Despite their efforts, the owners couldn't sell the works for a decade, raising suspicion.