Franci Carrillo

I was reading the Evening Standard last week and stumbled across a teeny tiny article that caught my attention.

Here’s the story: Damien Hirst decided that anyone out there should have the opportunity to become the proud owner of one of his artworks. Yes, even the average Joe. So, the artist set up a competition whereby whomever visits each of the 11 Gagosian Galleries around the world where he is currently exhibiting will have a chance to win an original artwork. Oh, and the tour must be completed in 1 month.

A very clever boy, 22, from East London, decided to take on the challenge. He set up a campaign whereby whomever is interested in owning an original Hirst, and doesn’t mind sharing, needs to donate £20 to contribute to the £10k pot to make the trip.

So.. If he raises the full amount and wins, he will make a bunch of art lovers pretty happy. If he loses, what’s £20 in comparison to the chance of co-owning an original masterpiece??

In my very own words: Pure Genius.

Two things:

Firstly, this is a demonstration that fractional ownership is becoming more and more popular, not only when it comes to owning private jets, yachts, houses or race horses, but all the way down to contemporary art. Owning a part of something makes you feel part of a collective and it’s certainly better than nothing… for many.

Secondly, for me? Ehrm.. Thanks but no thanks. In case you’re wondering, Mr Joe (Josef Valentino his real name) will unlikely receive my contribution. Admittedly I’m jealous of his incredibly clever idea and as an avid lover of art, traveling and Gagosian Gallery (not so much of Mr Hirst – sorry Damien!)…I just do wish that I thought about it first…!

But if you are interested, here’s Joe’s website – check out Joe’s website.