Olaolu Slawn’s “The Three Yoruba Brothers” Sold for £31,750 at Sotheby’s Auction and Started a Controversy

In a recent auction, a piece by the British-Nigerian artist Olaolu Slawn, titled “Alara, Ajero and Orangun,” was sold for a staggering £31,750. Slawn, known for his work that oscillates between street art and abstract expressionism, often explores pertinent issues of politics, race, and identity. However, the sale of this particular piece has sparked a wave of discontent among the black community, with many expressing their dissatisfaction on social media platforms like Twitter.

My work “The three Yoruba brothers” just sold at the @Sothebys contemporary auction for £31,750, More than 350% increase from the estimate, at the biggest auction house in the UK, Amen. pic.twitter.com/L3iuXSZUIy

— ㅤ (@olaoluslawn) March 22, 2024

The artwork, which features three Yoruba brothers in Slawn’s signature style, was sold at Sotheby’s, the UK’s largest auction house. Slawn, who was born in Lagos and is of Yoruba descent, has become a prominent figure in the art world, with his works gaining international recognition.

Despite the high sale price, which signifies a milestone in Slawn’s career, the reaction from the black community has been less than celebratory. Many have taken to Twitter to voice their concerns and dissatisfaction with the sale. The main point of contention appears to be the disconnect between the high price the artwork fetched and the everyday struggles faced by the black community.

The general sentiment expressed is one of frustration and disappointment. Many feel that while Slawn’s success is commendable, it does not translate into progress or improved conditions for the black community as a whole.

This controversy highlights the ongoing conversation about representation, value, and the role of black artists in the art world. As the discourse continues, it is clear that the sale of “The Three Yoruba Brothers” has opened up a new chapter in this discussion, one that will undoubtedly continue to evolve.