An original Banksy artwork titled 'Crude Oil (Vettriano)' is set for auction, estimated to reach up to $6.35 million. Owned by Mark Hoppus, the piece reinterprets Jack Vettriano's 1992 'The Singing Butler', contextualizing the romantic scene with a critical environmental twist. This dual-faced painting reflects contemporary issues, featuring figures in hazmat suits against a backdrop of environmental catastrophe. Hoppus plans to donate part of the proceeds to charity, emphasizing a punk ethos of supporting others in success. With a notable exhibition history, this artwork's arrival at auction is significant for both art collectors and environmental conversations.
"It was first exhibited in (Banksy's) landmark exhibition in Notting Hill in 2005, which really propelled him into the public sphere," Mackie Hayden-Cook, specialist, contemporary art at Sotheby's, told Reuters.
"It's rare for a work of this quality to come to market, and this one really has all the best ingredients."
"Like Banksy, you have a really, really popular artist that is loved by the masses and appreciated by many. But for whatever reason, he was snubbed by the art world," Hayden-Cook said.
"Coming up in punk rock, it was always the ethos that if your band got any success, you brought your friends up with you," he told Reuters on Sunday.
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