Ownership of Michael Jackson’s Artwork Shrouded in Uncertainty
Ownership of paintings created by Michael Jackson that have not been publicly displayed so far has become the focus of many debates and rumors in media around the world.
These works were supposed to be placed under the ownership of Brett Livingston Strong, Michael’s painting teacher, according to a letter attributed to Michael’s former manager, Mr. Temi Temi, and addressed to his former boss. But experts and the King of Pop’s Foundation view the letter with skepticism and call it fake. The letter was written in 2008, and Temi was dismissed from his job after Frank Delio returned in 2009. It has been said that at the time the letter was written, Michael was facing heavy debts—and the question is how he could, at that same time, have given away such valuable assets as a gift to a friend.
These paintings are part of a collection whose value has been estimated at more than $900 million.
Some rumors suggest that Strong entered into a deal with an international businessman in order to sell these works.
Eric Finzi, an appraiser of artworks, believes that the 182-piece Michael Jackson collection in markets are impossible to price. He says:
“The value and popularity of Michael Jackson’s extraordinary art collection—discovered only after his heartbreaking death—will increase thanks to his magnetic pull and spiritual fame. I don’t think we can still estimate the true value of these works.”
The paintings, designs, and sculptures that Michael Jackson created over the years are included in this collection. Among these works, mention should be made of portrait designs of famous figures such as Dr. Martin Luther King, President Abraham Lincoln, and President George Washington, which are said to have a material value of more than $8 million.
Michael also recorded images of his own feet as they moved in the Moonwalk. He also recreated Michelangelo’s Renaissance masterpieces, including the sculptures of David and the dying slave.
Some other items in the collection include a rocking chair belonging to the White House during John F. Kennedy’s presidency.
Source: eMJey.com / winnipegfreepress.com