Pharrell Williams’s Auction Platform Joopiter Collaborates with Martha Stewart for Inaugural Contemporary Art Sale

Joopiter’s Inaugural Contemporary Art Auction: A New Era in Collecting

Joopiter, the innovative auction platform founded by musician and designer Pharrell Williams, is making waves in the art world with its inaugural sale of contemporary art. Running through Tuesday, May 6, this exciting auction features a diverse array of 48 lots, showcasing both established and emerging artists. Among the highlights is the involvement of food and lifestyle mogul Martha Stewart, who has curated a selection of standout pieces.

A Star-Studded Lineup

The auction includes works from blue-chip artists such as George Condo, Tom Wesselmann, Jeff Koons, and Ed Ruscha, alongside contemporary stars like Tschabalala Self, André Butzer, Lynette Yiadom-Boakye, and Toyin Ojih Odutola. Stewart has chosen to spotlight works by renowned artists including Amy Sherald, Damien Hirst, Ai Weiwei, Louise Bourgeois, Roy Lichtenstein, and Alex Katz.

In her statement, Stewart reflected on her connection to Katz, saying, “I sat for Alex Katz long ago when he painted a large facial portrait of me. This portrait is a bit more complex and colorful, and very representative of his work.” The highlighted piece, Katz’s 2022 print Straw Hat 3, is estimated to fetch between $18,000 and $25,000.

The Contemporary Take Auction

Dubbed The Contemporary Take, this auction features a wide range of artworks, from prints and editions to unique works on paper, sculptures, and paintings. The estimated prices range from a modest $4,000 to a staggering $1.2 million. Stewart emphasized the auction’s potential for both new and seasoned collectors, stating, “This sale is an opportunity to start a collection of your own—or to expand one you have already begun. It’s also an opportunity to learn.”

Joopiter’s Unique Approach

Founded in 2022, Joopiter has quickly established itself as a versatile platform for various collectibles, including rare sneakers and works by celebrated athlete-turned-artist Ernie Barnes. The platform often invites guest curators to lend their expertise, and John Auerbach, Joopiter’s CEO, expressed pride in collaborating with Martha Stewart. He noted that her selections not only reflect her personal taste but also garnered significant attention across her channels.

Bidding Activity and Expectations

Since its launch on April 28, the auction has already seen considerable engagement, with many lots receiving multiple bids. Notably, a Matisse-esque painting by emerging Brussels-based artist Anastasia Bay has attracted over ten bids. Auerbach anticipates that the majority of bidding will occur in the final hours of the auction, particularly as lots begin to close on Tuesday morning.

“We are pleased with the performance of the auction to date,” Auerbach remarked. “As is typical with online auctions, early success is measured by traffic and engagement—such as bookmarks and page views—with the majority of bidding activity expected to occur in the final minutes before the close.”

The Broader Context

Joopiter’s foray into the art market comes at a time when traditional auction houses like Christie’s and Sotheby’s are aggressively expanding into art-adjacent categories. As art sales have largely stagnated, the growing market for luxury goods has emerged as a vital sector for growth. Joopiter’s unique blend of fashion, jewelry, design, collectibles, and art positions it well within this evolving landscape.

A Night to Remember

Adding to the excitement, Pharrell Williams is set to co-chair the 2025 Met Gala, alongside notable figures such as Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Rocky, Anna Wintour, and honorary chair LeBron James. This high-profile event, taking place at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, further cements Williams’ influence in both the art and fashion worlds.

As Joopiter continues to redefine the auction experience, its inaugural contemporary art sale marks a significant milestone, inviting collectors and art enthusiasts alike to engage with a diverse and dynamic selection of works. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this auction offers a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant world of contemporary art.