NEW YORK (KPTV/AP) - Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft and owner of the Portland Trail Blazers and Seattle Seahawks, has sold a 1953 painting for $43.8 million at a New York City auction, according to reports. The sale of the large 1953 painting by abstract expressionist artist Barnett Newman set an auction record for his work. Sotheby's said Tuesday the record price for "Onement VI" includes the buyer's premium. The painting is the last of six in Newman's Onement series. They're characterized by what's called the zip, a distinctive stripe running down the center of the canvas. Four are in museum collections. "Onement V" sold at auction last year for $22.4 million, the artist's previous auction record. Newman was an exhibitions organizer of the newly opened Betty Parson Gallery in 1946. He played a vital role in the careers of Mark Rothko, Jackson Pollock and others. He also influenced the next generation of artists including Frank Stella. Newman died in 1970. http://www.kptv.com/story/22259176/blazers-owner-sells-painting-for-43-million
A fool and his money are easily parted... That looks like a $10 window blind with a tear down the middle of the fabric.
Looks to me like Newman made an entire career of cutting ping pong tables in half and selling them as art.
Hey, Mr. Allen, if you ever miss your painting, I have one right here that I'll see you for 20 million.
It looks like a poorly painted wall that needs a second coat. And the paint bled underneath the tape. Until now I thought I had a pretty good eye for art. This is just weird. I agree with you Sheed...it's criminal to use financial resources of that magnitude for...nothing.
