David Choe, a prominent figure in the art world, boasts a net worth of $300 million at the age of 48. Born on April 21, 1976, in Los Angeles, Choe’s eclectic career spans painting, graffiti, graphic novels, and murals. His unique style and business acumen, particularly a lucrative deal with Facebook, have solidified his status as one of the wealthiest artists in the industry.
Early Life and Inspirations
David Choe’s early life was marked by creativity and adversity. Growing up in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles, he was influenced by his Korean immigrant parents and their devout Christian faith. Choe’s artistic journey began with drawing “Star Wars” and “G.I. Joe” characters, which later evolved into graffiti after being inspired by local artists Hex and Mear One. The 1992 L.A. riots, which devastated his parents’ real estate business, led him to drop out of high school and embark on a hitchhiking journey across multiple continents.
Rise to Fame in the Art World
Choe’s return to California marked the beginning of his formal art education at the California College of the Arts, though he dropped out after two years. His graffiti work landed him in prison briefly, but it also opened doors in the art and publishing industries. He began contributing to magazines like “Vice,” and “Hustler,” and created artwork for various other publications. Choe’s persistence paid off when he displayed his work in unconventional venues like the Double Rainbow ice cream shop, eventually leading to gallery exhibitions.
The Facebook Payday
One of the most pivotal moments in Choe’s career was his involvement with Facebook. In the early 2000s, Facebook President Sean Parker commissioned Choe to paint murals at the company’s headquarters. Instead of accepting a $60,000 payment, Choe opted for company stock. This decision proved to be incredibly lucrative, as his shares were valued at around $200 million at the time of Facebook’s IPO. The value of his holdings has fluctuated but potentially reached $300-500 million, reflecting the company’s growth.
Diverse Artistic Endeavors
Choe’s artistic portfolio is diverse, including figure paintings, graphic novels, and murals. His books, such as “Slow Jams” and “Bruised Fruit: The Art of David Choe,” showcase his talent and versatility. He has held solo exhibitions in prestigious galleries worldwide, from New York’s Jonathan LeVine Gallery to London’s Lazarides Gallery. Choe’s work has also extended to the digital realm, with appearances in documentaries like “Dirty Hands: The Art and Crimes of David Choe” and TV shows such as “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown” and “The Mandalorian.”
Controversies and Challenges
Despite his success, Choe’s career has not been without controversy. In 2014, comments he made on his podcast about exhibiting “rapey behavior” sparked outrage. Choe later apologized, stating that the podcast was a work of fiction and that he had no history of sexual assault. This incident led to protests and criticisms, particularly when he was commissioned to paint the Bowery Mural Wall in 2017. Choe’s apology aimed to address the hurt caused by his words and to clarify his stance against non-consensual acts.
Charity and Personal Life
David Choe is also known for his charitable efforts. He has raised funds for Wyclef Jean’s Yle Haiti and worked with at-risk children through The LIDÈ Haiti Foundation. His personal life has seen its share of ups and downs, including a three-month prison stint in Japan and subsequent expulsion from the country. Choe’s resilience is evident in his ability to channel challenging experiences into his art.
Real Estate Ventures
Choe’s financial success has allowed him to invest in real estate. In 2010, he purchased a 6,500 square-foot mansion in Los Feliz, Los Angeles, for $3.1 million. By September 2022, he listed this property for sale at $6.9 million, reflecting the appreciation in value. This investment highlights Choe’s business acumen and his ability to leverage his wealth.
Legacy and Influence
David Choe’s journey from a graffiti artist to a multi-millionaire is a testament to his talent, risk-taking ability, and business savvy. His influence extends beyond the art world, impacting popular culture and the digital landscape. As he continues to create and inspire, Choe’s legacy as a groundbreaking artist and entrepreneur remains firmly established.
