A unique opportunity to acquire a rare self-portrait by David Bowie, complete with his handprints, is on the horizon for art enthusiasts. The singer crafted this piece in 1996, and it will be hitting the auction block for the first time at Sotheby’s Modern British and Irish Art Day Auction on October 15. The artwork is expected to fetch between £35,000 to £55,000 (approximately $66,000 to $104,000 Canadian).
Originally given by Bowie to his St Ives gallerist, the painting is now publicly displayed in London after spending thirty years in private hands. This self-portrait is part of a series of eight large-scale portraits from the mid-1990s, with this particular piece being the most emotive of the collection.
According to Sotheby’s senior specialist Jen Hardie, the self-portrait captures Bowie in a moment of creativity and self-reflection, establishing a personal connection with the artist through his direct gaze and handprints embedded in the composition. The vibrant colors and bold strokes showcase Bowie’s prowess as a painter in the 1990s, offering a rare glimpse into his identity beyond his music and cultural influence.
The portrait, executed on paper, features Bowie staring directly at the viewer, accentuating his distinctively uneven pupils. The artist’s handprints on the lower portion of the painting add a personal and intimate touch to the artwork. For those interested in owning a piece of Bowie’s legacy with a hands-on connection to the Starman himself, this auction presents a remarkable opportunity.