Artistic MVPs: How Athletes are Redefining the Game in the Art World

In a surprising twist away from the court, top athletes are making waves in the art market, fuelling a newfound appreciation for contemporary art. Dive into the world where sports and creativity collide, uncovering how athletes are becoming influential players in reshaping the art scene.

Picture this: athletes, known for their prowess on the court or field, are stepping into the world of art, not just as spectators but as serious collectors. A recent read of The New York Times "Off the Court and Field, Top Athletes Become Players in the Art Market" article got me thinking about this fascinating crossover where sports and creativity intersect, particularly in the realm of contemporary art.

Carmelo Anthony, a 10-time N.B.A. All-Star, spilled the beans about his art journey post-retirement. From a rookie basketball player not understanding the hype around art to now adorning his Westchester home with masterpieces by Black artists like Nelson Makamo and Kehinde Wiley —his story reflects a shift in how athletes view and engage with art.

What's intriguing is that athletes, with their fame and influence, are not just buying art; they are shaping the art narrative. Galleries, auction houses, art shows, and museums are vying for their attention, recognising them as tastemakers in the world of contemporary art, especially championing artists of colour.

Kevin Love, the Miami HEAT forward, didn't just stop at collecting; he organised a Sotheby's sale in New York, featuring works by renowned artists like Cindy Sherman and Cy Twombly. And guess what? Art Basel Miami is on the radar for former N.B.A. players Deron Williams, Courtney Lee, and Amar’e Stoudemire, promising a slam dunk in the art fair scene.

What's the game plan for athletes turning art enthusiasts? The playbook includes curating shows, serving on museum boards, and actively promoting underrepresented voices. Keith Rivers, a former N.F.L. linebacker, curated a show at the FLAG Art Foundation in Manhattan, while Elliot Perry, a former point guard, took art right into the Memphis Grizzlies locker room.

This isn't just a recent trend; it's a full-court press into the art world that's been gaining momentum. In the early 2000s, discussing art in a locker room was unheard of. Grant Hill, a seven-time N.B.A. All-Star, recalls his apprehension at the time, fearing how peers might perceive his interest in art. But fast forward to today, where the convergence of sports and entertainment has made art discussions mainstream.

Rich Paul, a sports agent and collector, is actively encouraging the players he represents to see art beyond just an investment. His philosophy? Education is key. Paul’s collection includes works by artists like Mark Bradford and Derrick Adams, reflecting a commitment to art appreciation beyond its financial value.

Athletes are not merely collecting; they are actively participating in reshaping the dynamics of the art world. Corey Robinson, a former Notre Dame wide receiver and art collector, notes the parallel obsessions athletes and artists share in their crafts. By supporting artists of colour, athletes are not just collecting; they are using their platforms to shift cultural narratives.

Teams are getting into the creative action too. The Los Angeles Lakers have their "In the Paint" program supporting artists of colour. The San Antonio Spurs hired a curator to select art for their new practice facility, showcasing works by artists like Alexandre Arrechea and Deborah Roberts. Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown even initiated an art awareness program, gifting prints to the top N.B.A. draft picks.

The impact extends beyond individual collections to major collaborations with auction houses. Sotheby's recently announced a collaboration with the N.B.A., hosting auctions featuring player jerseys. The celebrity status of athletes is providing them with unprecedented access to the art world, making them a sought-after segment for major art institutions.

As athletes become voices in the art world, it's not just about buying and displaying; it's about being advocates. Carmelo Anthony rightly points out that athletes bring attention to art; they become the voices that speak up. In a world where influence matters, athletes are steering the conversation, encouraging dialogue, and shaping the evolving landscape of the art market.

So, let's celebrate this unexpected slam dunk from our favourite athletes. They're not just scoring on the court; they're making an artistic mark off it. The game has changed, and it's not just about wins and losses—it's about the cultural slam dunks happening in galleries and studios, all thanks to our favourite sports icons turned art enthusiasts.

Read the full article here - https://www.nytimes.com/2023/11/19/arts/nba-nfl-art-market.html

Ade Sanusi - Art Meets Culture