A devastating fire in Los Angeles has obliterated nearly 200 artworks crafted by Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden. The artworks, stored near the Pacific Palisades residence of Hunter's Hollywood attorney Kevin Morris, were reportedly valued at "millions of dollars," according to a source close to the Biden family.
Hunter Biden, a self-taught artist, discovered his passion for painting during his recovery from drug addiction. His artworks had gained significant attention in the art world, with individual pieces priced as high as $500,000. On average, his paintings were valued at approximately $85,000 each. Despite the steep prices, collectors such as Kevin Morris and Elizabeth Hirsh Naftali had invested substantial sums in acquiring these artworks.
The destroyed collection included paintings on Japanese paper, featuring vibrant floral designs. Hunter's works were initially represented by Georges Berges, a Soho gallerist who organized solo exhibitions in Los Angeles and New York from 2021. However, their professional relationship ended last year when Berges severed ties with Hunter.
In addition to his role as an attorney, Kevin Morris played a crucial financial role in Hunter's life. He purchased $875,000 worth of Hunter's artworks through Berges and also extended a loan of nearly $5 million to assist Hunter in settling a tax bill. Morris is currently financing a documentary on Hunter, showcasing the multifaceted dimensions of his life and career.
Hunter Biden's journey through art has been intertwined with personal challenges and public scrutiny. Last month, he received a pardon from his father for gun and tax evasion offenses. Despite these adversities, Hunter's artistic endeavors had become a source of solace and expression.
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