In homage to the final installment of the 2018 El Segundo Art Walk this Thursday, here are seven relics that would enhance any real estate investment. Check the hyperlinks for images of these timeless masterpieces:
- The Pietà - Michelangelo's sculpture of Mary cradling Jesus would be a fine addition to any living room. Currently one of the focal points of St. Peter's Basilica in the Vatican, this 100% Carrera marble piece could be an excellent tie-in to those counter tops in the kitchen.
- Winged Victory of Samothrace - What better way is there to create that chic beach cottage look than with the 18 foot ex-voto offered by the people of Rhodes in commemoration of a naval victory in the early second century BC. It conveys a sense of coastal comfort, with the flowy garments billowing as though the goddess was descending to alight upon the prow of a ship. Made from 100% Paros marble, this would look great on those tile floors in the foyer.
- Nighthawks - Edward Hopper's brooding painting of isolation and aloneness is one that depicts either the beginning or end to a great evening, and would be a wonderful fit for that man cave or den. Most likely inspired by Hemingway's short story "The Killers", Nighthawks would enhance any market value.
- 32 Campbell's Soup Cans - So the kitchen and bathrooms need to be redone. Don't panic. This iconic piece by Andy Warhol can make those cabinets and farmhouse sink pop!
- Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette - Create the perfect outdoor living area with Pierre-Aguste Renoir's Impressionist rendition of a lively dance party in a Parisian garden. You will instantly add square footage without lifting a hammer.
- The Son of Man - If Mid-Century Modern is your thing, then Magritte's epochal self-portrait obscured by an apple is just the thing to adorn that parlor or sitting room.
- Untitled, 1982 - Basquiat is a must for any collector looking for gritty, street influenced art. This ultra urban and hip work would fit into any high rise condo living room. Many of his works are dubbed "Untitled", but the one I reference recently sold for $110 million. Like our current housing exchange, If the market can sustain a price for one work, it can probably pay the same amount (if not more) for another.
* Bonus(es) - A) Crying Girl - It's always cool to have a Lichtenstein hanging around, and B) anything by Emmanuel Radnitzky.