"Toyz". Contemporary Collectibles #508/2023

Artmark is exclusively organising the first auction dedicated to pop-urban culture: from GOAT sneakers to figures inspired by comic book superheroes, from sports memorabilia to old games and gaming collectibles, from comics to jewellery inspired by the beloved Walt Disney universe. Associated more with the idea of utility than fashion, nowadays, pairs of sneakers serve as a form of art and expression, becoming synonymous with the idea of pop-urban culture, even becoming museum pieces. There are two defining moments in the controversial history of sneaker culture: the signing of the contract between Michael Jordan and Nike, respectively the association of the band RUN-DMC with Adidas. With an intriguing narrative thread and appealing visuals, comics have also established themselves as a defining element of contemporary urban culture. In 2021, comic book sales exceeded $2 billion in the US alone. From this point of view, it is easy to understand why these "graphic novels" present not only enormous commercial potential, but also a powerful source of soft-power and influencing the masses, by subtly inserting a political or social message under the appearance heroes or the cause they fight for. The fantastic universe of superheroes has also generated new passions, such as collecting figures and other objects associated with comic book adventures, the most popular being the pieces released under the Star Wars, Superman, Spiderman or Captain America signs. The influence of these symbols also extended to the artistic environment, Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein being the most eloquent examples of the transposition of mass culture into works of art.