Hulk Meets High Art: Frieze New York’s Million-Dollar Mashup

A towering Jeff Koons “Hulk Elvis” sculpture, equal parts pop culture and polished chrome, set the tone at Frieze New York 2025—selling for over $3 million before the fair even hit its stride. This year’s edition at The Shed drew a global crowd, with more than 65 galleries from 25+ countries and a guest list that read like a who’s who of the art world. Big names and big numbers dominated the opening: Tracey Emin’s painting found a new home for $1.59 million, while Perrotin’s booth of Claire Tabouret canvases sold out entirely. Yet, the pace was notably unhurried—collectors lingered, conversations deepened, and decisions weren’t rushed. The result? A fair that balanced blockbuster sales with a thoughtful, almost contemplative energy. In a world where art and commerce often collide, Frieze New York proved that spectacle and substance can share the same spotlight—sometimes with a green, muscle-bound icon leading the charge. #FriezeNY2025 #ContemporaryArt #ArtMarket #Culture