The streets are talking, and the art world is listening. Curating iconic moments in pop culture history, is about being bold and daring, and we're breaking the mold of the art scene once again with "Urban Legends," a collection showcasing the raw power and undeniable influence of street art.

This is a celebration of a movement that transformed urban landscapes into canvases of rebellion, expression, and ultimately, high art. Mark your calendars for Thursday, February 27, 2025, because Julien's Studios in Los Angeles will be ground zero for a street art revolution.

Julien's has a proven track record of championing street art, recognizing our cultural significance long before it became a staple in blue-chip galleries. Our previous successes in this arena speak volumes, solidifying our position as a leading auction house for this dynamic art form. Understanding the nuances of the scene, the artists' motivations, and the historical context that makes each piece so valuable is paramount, and this expertise is evident in the carefully curated selection of works in "Urban Legends."

Banksy

Headlining this extraordinary event is a selection of works by the enigmatic Banksy, the street art legend whose identity remains shrouded in mystery, yet whose art speaks volumes. "TV Girl," a poignant mural depicting a child embracing a television, is a prime example of Banksy's ability to capture complex social commentary in a single, powerful image. Estimated to fetch between $200,000 and $300,000, this piece is a testament to the enduring power of his work.

Also on offer are iconic images like "Love Is In The Air" (aka Flower Thrower), a symbol of peaceful protest that resonates deeply with contemporary audiences, and "Rude Copper," a satirical take on authority. These, alongside "Toxic Mary" and the "Di-Faced Tenner," offer collectors a chance to own a piece of Banksy's subversive legacy.

Invader

Beyond Banksy, "Urban Legends" shines a spotlight on other pivotal figures in the street art world. Invader, the French artist whose mosaic tile creations have become a global phenomenon, is represented by an impressive twelve pieces. These aren't just random street finds; they are documented and authenticated works from his invasions of cities across the globe, from New York and Paris to Bangkok and Bilbao. Each mosaic, whether it's a Space Invader or a Super Mario character, represents a piece of urban exploration, a treasure hunt for art lovers. The estimates for these pieces, ranging from $3,000 to $12,000, make them accessible to a wider range of collectors.

Street Art Icons

Kenny Scharf, a key figure in the East Village art scene of the 1980s, brings his vibrant and playful aesthetic to the auction with "Gatescapes." This large-scale mural, originally painted on a security gate in Manhattan, exemplifies Scharf's signature blend of pop surrealism and street art sensibility. The piece, estimated at $20,000-$30,000, captures the energy of a bygone era in the New York art world.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the auction is a Blondie band-signed 1980 European tour program featuring an original sketch by Jean-Michel Basquiat. This unique artifact connects the worlds of music and street art, offering a glimpse into the creative cross-pollination that defined the era. The program, signed by both the band and Basquiat, is a rare and valuable piece of music and art history, estimated at $5,000-$7,000.

Finally, RETNA's "Fuel," a limited-edition print, represents the artist's distinctive calligraphic style. With half of the original run reportedly destroyed in a fire, this piece is not only visually striking but also carries a unique history. Estimated at $2,000-$3,000, it offers an entry point for collectors interested in RETNA's work.

Urban Legends

Consider this auction a curated exhibition of street art's most iconic moments, and a chance to own a piece of the movement that redefined art in the 21st century. Julien's Auctions has once again proven our finger is firmly on the pulse of the art world, bringing to market pieces that are not only visually stunning but also culturally significant.

Register and bid now. This auction is a must-attend event for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the power of art to transform urban spaces and challenge conventions. The streets are calling, and Julien's is answering.