Celebrating 50 Years of Hip Hop: Sotheby’s Third Auction Showcasing the Art and Culture of Hip Hop

Iconic Artists and Trailblazers: Exploring Hip Hop’s Profound Impact on Art and Culture

To commemorate the milestone 50-year anniversary of Hip Hop, Sotheby’s is set to host its third dedicated Hip Hop sale. The event will be paying tribute to the genre’s profound influence on art and culture spanning five decades. From its humble beginnings in the South Bronx in 1973 to its global impact today, this auction will showcase original artwork, historic studio equipment, sneakers and jackets, archival flyers and posters, rare artifacts, and much more. Nonetheless, the auction will shine a spotlight on the iconic artists and trailblazers who not only shaped the musical genre but also revolutionized the broader phenomenon of Hip Hop culture. This includes art, fashion, and much more. Correspondingly, expect to see renowned names like Tupac Shakur, Wu-Tang Clan, Nas, Ice-T & Afrika Islam, Fab 5 Freddy, Big Daddy Kane, Futura, Lee Quiñones, UNKLE & Mo’ Wax Founder James Lavelle, and many others.

Tupac Shakur’s Self-Designed ‘Crown’ Sovereign Ring Takes Center Stage at Sotheby’s Hip Hop Auction

Certainly, the centerpiece of the auction is Tupac Shakur’s self-designed Gold, Diamond, and Ruby ‘Crown’ Sovereign Ring. Impeccably crafted by the artist himself and engraved with ‘Pac & Dada 1996,’ this remarkable piece symbolizes Tupac’s engagement to his beloved Kidada Jones. Notably, Tupac wore the ring during his final public appearance at the MTV Video Music Awards in 1996. Yaasmyn Fula, Tupac’s godmother and devoted supporter, who played a pivotal role in his life, is presenting the ring that carries immense sentimental value and is estimated to fetch between $200,000 and $300,000.

Direct from the Artists: Sotheby’s Hip Hop Auction Features Rare Artifacts and Memorabilia

Similar to Sotheby’s previous Hip Hop auctions, the majority of items are currently in this sale apparently come directly from the artists or their estates. Also, Monica Lynch, former president of Tommy Boy Records (1981-1998), collaborates with Sotheby’s once again to organize this year’s auction, ensuring a seamless presentation that pays homage to Hip Hop’s rich heritage.

Collaborating with Mass Appeal: Sotheby’s Hip Hop Sale Honors the Genre’s Rich Heritage

According to the official press release from Sotheby’s, Mass Appeal’s Hip Hop 50 initiative is commemorating the anniversary through various engaging avenues. This includes captivating storytelling, original music, live experiences, strategic partnerships, and more. Notable events include the “Hip Hop Conscious, Unconscious” exhibition at Fotografiska, “Park Jams: A Juneteenth Celebration” at SummerStage in Central Park, and “Hip Hop Til Infinity,” an immersive exhibition at Hall des Lumières in July. Additionally, the highlight of the initiative will be the star-studded “Hip Hop 50 Live” concert at Yankee Stadium in August, featuring legendary artists like Run DMC and many others.

From Online Bidding to On-Site Exhibition: How to Engage with Sotheby’s Hip Hop Auction

The Hip Hop online auction will be open for bidding from July 18th to 25th, providing enthusiasts and collectors worldwide with an opportunity to acquire unique pieces of Hip Hop history. For those seeking a more immersive experience, a dedicating exhibition will be available for public viewing at Sotheby’s York Avenue galleries from July 18th to 24th.

Owning a Piece of Hip Hop History: Don’t Miss the Chance to Acquire Art and Memorabilia at Sotheby’s

Participating in this extraordinary occasion celebrating 50 years of Hip Hop and explore the remarkable impact it has had on art, culture, and society as a whole would be ideal. Sotheby’s Hip Hop sale promises to be a captivating journey through the evolution of this iconic genre. Additionally paying homage to its trailblazers and providing an unprecedented opportunity to own a piece of history.