Antiques Roadshow Guest Stunned by Kanye West’s High School Artwork Valuation
An episode of Antiques Roadshow left a guest in disbelief when a collection of high school artwork created by none other than Kanye West was appraised at an astonishing five-figure sum. The iconic rapper and music producer, now 47, is believed to have produced these pieces around 1995, showcasing his artistic talents long before he became a household name.
The artwork featured on the US version of Antiques Roadshow was inherited by Kanye’s cousin following the passing of his mother, Donda West, in 2007. During the appraisal, the cousin’s spouse shared the emotional backstory, stating, “My husband is Kanye West’s first cousin. When Kanye’s mother passed away in 2007, my husband received these pieces as part of the estate about a year later.”
The collection included a variety of artworks:
- A striking black and white self-portrait featuring horns and chains
- An abstract portrait
- A delicate sketch of a woman
- Vibrant paintings depicting a lush green forest
In a segment that originally aired in 2020, appraiser Laura Woolley provided her insights on Kanye’s artwork. She noted, “What really attracted me to these pieces was the fact that many people may not be aware of how talented he is as an artist beyond his music career. These pieces showcase an extraordinary skill set.”
Woolley also remarked on the fluctuating value of celebrity artwork, saying, “It’s fascinating how the value of art created by a celebrity can rise and fall with their popularity. To possess early works from someone who is destined to be an important cultural figure of our time is truly remarkable.”
The artwork, which was once valued between $12 to $15 each, was estimated to be worth between $16,000 and $23,000 at the time of appraisal. By 2021, a collector named Vinoda Basnayake had acquired the artwork. A source revealed, “Kanye’s cousin owned this incredible trove, created during his time as a student at Polaris School in Chicago.”
Kanye West is primarily known for his contributions to the music industry as a rapper and producer, but this revelation highlights his artistic prowess beyond the realm of music.
