WHAT: A black leather jacket painted, signed and dated by artist Keith Haring (1958-1990) sold for $16,250 recently in a Contemporary Art auction at Rago in New Jersey. Decorated in Haring’s signature graffiti style, the jacket came from a private collection in New York City.
There is no rule that art has to be done on a flat surface. In this case, the motorcycle jacket by Tecone, size 48, is an apt matrix for Haring’s art reflecting urban street culture of the 1980s.
MORE: The disconnect of art by an iconic artist done on a utilitarian garment “makes” the appeal of this lot. The same art on a screenprint would be blah. This pops.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: Creating art on nontraditional surfaces is as old as history.
HOT TIP: The result was more than $4,000 above presale estimate. Formulated by the consignor and the auction house, estimates reflect research on market values and past results at auction of similar goods. The lower figure is the absolute least the seller will accept. Often, that number is called the reserve. Here, estimate was $8,000-12,000.
Differing auctions handle estimates differently, so when selling at auction, be sure to get written terms before you commit.
BOTTOM LINE: Flat works by Haring did not sell as high; only one went markedly above estimate.
MORE: The PBS hit “Antiques Roadshow” will visit Sarasota, Fla.; Tulsa, Okla.; Louisville, Ky.; San Diego; and Rochester, Mich. in April through June. Admission is free, but tickets are required. For more info, call toll free 888-762-3749. Deadline for tickets is Feb. 27, 2018.
