Warhol After Warhol: Power and Money in the Modern Art World

Long-time art critic Richard Dorment reveals the corruption and lies of the art world and its mystifying authentication process in his book "Warhol After Warhol." The book follows the story of Joe Simon, an American film producer and art collector, who seeks help from Dorment after his two Warhols are declared fake by the Andy Warhol Art Authentication Board. The story involves a cast of characters, including rock icons, film stars, art dealers, forgers, a murdered Russian oligarch, and a lawyer for the mob, as they struggle to prove the authenticity of a series of paintings by Warhol. The book is a mix of detective story, art history, memoir, and courtroom drama, exploring the dark connection between money, power, and art.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 09 November 2023
Publisher: Pan Macmillan

Late one afternoon in the winter of 2003, art critic Richard Dorment received a telephone call from a stranger named Joe Simon. The caller was an American film producer and art collector, who had received a suggestion from his neighbor, David Hockney, in Malibu. A committee of experts known as the Andy Warhol Art Authentication Board had declared two Warhols in Joe's collection to be fake. Joe sought Richard's assistance in understanding the reasons behind this declaration and believed that Dorment could provide valuable insights.

This call marked the beginning of an extraordinary story that would unfold over the next ten years, involving a diverse cast of characters reminiscent of fiction. Among them were rock icons, film stars, art dealers, art forgers, a murdered Russian oligarch, and a lawyer for the mob. The story took place in various settings, including courtrooms, auction houses, and the art world itself. Warhol After Warhol is a captivating account that blends elements of detective work, art history, memoir, and courtroom drama. It delves into the dark connection between money, power, and art, shedding light on the intricate web of corruption and lies that permeated the art world.

Throughout the book, Richard Dorment takes readers on a journey through his own experiences as an art critic and his involvement in the authentication process. He reveals the intricate details of the art world's authentication process, which is often shrouded in secrecy and controversy. Dorment explains how the board's experts rely on a combination of visual analysis, technical examination, and historical research to determine the authenticity of a painting. However, he also exposes the flaws and biases in this process, which can lead to false declarations and the exploitation of collectors.

One of the central themes of Warhol After Warhol is the rise of the art market and the impact it has had on the art world. The book explores the ways in which the market has commodified art, creating a culture of speculation and investment. It sheds light on the practices of art dealers, who often manipulate prices and forge signatures to increase their profits. It also exposes the role of auction houses, which have become powerful institutions in the art world but are sometimes accused of prioritizing financial gain over the integrity of the art they sell.

Another important aspect of the book is the controversy surrounding the authenticity of Warhol's paintings. Joe Simon's case serves as a focal point, as he was determined to prove the authenticity of his Warhols despite the committee's declaration. Richard Dorment becomes deeply involved in this struggle, conducting his own research and collaborating with experts in the field. The book provides a detailed account of the legal battles that ensued, as Joe sought to reclaim his collection and expose the corruption within the art world.

Warhol After Warhol also delves into the personal lives of the characters involved. It explores the complex relationships between art collectors, dealers, and forgers, as well as the emotional toll that the authenticity crisis can take on individuals. The book provides a glimpse into the motivations of those who engage in art forgery, as well as the consequences of their actions.

Throughout the book, Richard Dorment offers his own insights and opinions on the art world and the issues it faces. He challenges the traditional notions of art authenticity and argues that the market's focus on monetary value has led to a devaluation of artistic expression. He advocates for a more nuanced approach to art authentication, one that takes into account the historical context, artistic style, and the intentions of the artist.

Warhol After Warhol is a compelling and thought-provoking book that offers a unique perspective on the art world. It sheds light on the dark underbelly of the art industry and exposes the corruption and lies that underpin it. Through the story of Joe Simon and the controversy surrounding Warhol's paintings, the book provides a powerful indictment of the power dynamics that govern the art world. It is a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, and the intersection of money and power.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 223 x 319 x 31 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781529081497