Jeff Koons, Bike Rack, 2004 Image via Artnet
I’m not sure why I’ve received all manner of emails about the fact that some sucker bought the same inflatable Sunco Lobster Rider Jeff Koons used as a source for sculptural works (such as the one above) on ebay for $736.58, but I can tell you I don’t think it’s nearly as interesting as those who have sent me the tips. I suppose it’s no coincidence all of these people seem to have some connection with the seller, Charles Lutz, an artist who says he worked for Koons, and is the man behind warholdenied.com, a “conceptual” art project whereby the artist creates fake Warhols and sends them into the authentication board to be denied.
Given the sketchy emails sent to me prior to the publication of the Chicago Tribune piece, and a track record of ill-conceived projects executed with an interest in deception (albeit futile), I did a little research on ebay in the hopes of understanding why Charles Lutz managed to sell his inflatable lobster for so much when the going price is several hundred dollars below this. The results thus far are boring. I haven’t been able to make contact with the buyer, but outward appearances indicate suckerism.
UPDATE: To be clear, the same buyer paid $2100 for a Koons reindeer paddleball, which can easily be found for half that and skateboard decks signed by David Shrigley and Liam Gillick. Thanks Greg!
