The loss for Hunter Biden and his art career: Around 200 of the controversial artist’s works, valued in the millions of dollars, according to the NY Post, were destroyed in the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles. The artworks, which were stored in a warehouse near the residence of Kevin Morris, a prominent lawyer in Hollywood, and a close associate of the Biden family, were a significant part of Biden’s artistic portfolio.
According to an insider, the warehouse was an unassuming storage facility near Morris’ luxurious estate in Pacific Palisades, a wealthy neighborhood in Los Angeles. While the estate was largely spared, the warehouse was completely destroyed.
Hunter Biden’s artworks, which he turned to during a stint in drug rehab, have been a subject of media attention in recent years. Biden had numerous exhibitions in galleries in New York and Los Angeles, and his works were sold for up to $500,000, with an average price of around $85,000. The gallerist Georges Bèrges, who previously represented Biden, said he had parted ways with the artist last year and was not sure what happened to the remaining artworks.
Hunter Biden’s art has consistently been at the center of public discussions – particularly the question of who the buyers of his works were. Several sources claimed that he knew the identities of many of his buyers, raising concerns about potential conflicts of interest. The Biden Administration has consistently emphasized that the identities of the buyers are to remain secret.
The 54-year-old has not publicly commented on the devastating fires or the loss of his artworks. A spokesperson said the family could not provide a statement at this time. However, his family has repeatedly stressed that Hunter has made significant progress in his fight against addiction in recent years, and his artworks have been a way for him to confront his own story. In a 2020 interview with the New York Times, Biden said, “Painting keeps me mentally healthy. I’ve been afraid to say I’m an artist for years. It feels good to say it now.”
According to Governor Gavin Newsom, the wildfires in California could develop into the largest catastrophe in terms of scale and economic losses. As of now, 25 fatalities have been reported, and tens of thousands of residents, including prominent figures, have had to evacuate their homes.