Devon Rodriguez subway painting auctioned at Phillips

20th Century & Contemporary art day sale on June 24th, 2021.
Other artists in the auction included Jean-Michel Basquiat, Andy Warhol, Kaws, Kehinde Wiley, Amy Sherald, and more.
Devon Rodriguez
"Girl on Subway"
signed and dated "DEVON RODRIGUEZ 2021" on the reverse
oil on panel
12 x 9 in. (30.5 x 22.9 cm)
Painted in 2021.
(Lot 346)
Estimate $5,000 - 7,000
SOLD FOR $22,680
www.phillips.com/detail/devon...

[@Maxcraft12]

Every person he gave a painting to will wake up one day and realize it is worth thousands of dollars. What an amazing man and artist...

[@orangewarm1]

maybe. art price is based on scarcity.

[@Maxcraft12]

@@orangewarm1 Picasso painted 50.000 paintings art is not the stock market bruh

[@thronosstudios]

@@orangewarm1 Exactly... and Devon made a one-of-a-kind art piece for every single person he gave one to. I'm pretty sure one-of-a-kind falls under the "scarce category", lol. :P

[@SilvaDreams]

@@thronosstudios Not really, personal portraits tend to only hold value when they are of someone important. The fact that he has done so many will actually devalue them.

[@thronosstudios]

@@SilvaDreams Well, until he dies that is... then the value will skyrocket.

[@teyannadean4915]

You have literally given your art to the world and now the world is giving back to you. Every free pic you gave away was never in vain and even seeing peoples reaction when you hand them their images was always priceless. I'm so emotional seeing that the world values what you do. Congrats. You earned that and so much more. Stay safe, be proud and keep doing what you do.

[@85SA]

ممكن 🌹🔔👍👏👏👏

[@teyannadean4915]

@D33ds Everything you said may be true, that in no way diminishes his art. so...what does it matter? Did he scam that person that paid almost 23 thousand dollars for that painting or all the people that bid on it? Maybe you could take some time to create some beauty in this f'd up world and then you wouldn't find time to rain on other peoples joy or add to the ugly that already exist. Prayers for your souls recovery. By the way I never mention strangers, so again what is your point? You didn't expose him, you exposed yourself.

[@GuyPipili]

@Laughing All the way to the bank I just love the sarcasm!😄👏👏👏

[@GuyPipili]

@@teyannadean4915 These basement dwellers just loves to share their misery.

[@zaharijepajovic3150]

I nodded off at halfway of your comment

[@nnou2234]

What's crazy is how he gives 99% of his work away, I admire that

[@divyansh2890]

Yes, he gives his work away to get money. Keeping it with himself would be useless

[@mitzki1214]

@@divyansh2890 he means with giving actually giving without earning any money

[@divyansh2890]

@@mitzki1214 but that was an auction

[@justintimberflake1093]

@@divyansh2890 he normally gives away his art for free. This is an exception

[@msoperator510]

That's what made him famous coupled with TikTok. He does do commissions also. Such a humble young man too.

[@Jorge-rw6nz]

These people are smart trying to buy Devon’s paintings now because this is an investment

[@85SA]

ممكن 🔔👍👏👏👏

[@obliteratedcisco4709]

Wait how? Cant any accomplished painter do the same art if not better of same celeb or some other much proclaimed celeb...pls explain me im confused 😭😭

[@Jorge-rw6nz]

@Obliterated Sisco Yes, since Devon is gaining more notoriety through social media, naturally his work is going to be of higher price. There are many artists better than Devon but not as popular as him. Presumably he is just going to get more famous and therefore the work he has already done is going to raise in price like the painting in this video.

[@obliteratedcisco4709]

@@Jorge-rw6nz Oh I see dawg , finally inner sense of peace as to why any1 would pay so much then we see the mere paint thrown on canvas by picasso,michaelangelo fetching huge prices ...thanks fr clarifying

[@orangewarm1]

how do you know?

[@mcvenne8935]

The difference between usual auctions and fancy ones like this is crazy. Congratulations for making it there with your art.

[@85SA]

ممكن 🌹👍🔔👏👏👏

[@gorey4more837]

This makes me so happy. 😊 Devon and his beautiful work deserve great success.

[@saidali5058]

In 30 years Devon's painting will be sought after in auctioneers , by those who are not only Collectors but by those who want to remember the times when the World was full of despair .

[@RedPillVegan]

In 30 years you won’t recognize humanity. Big changes, coming fast

[@user-ux3qt4sx3e]

@@RedPillVegan yes there will be zombies

[@thesleepingdog4061]

You are so right🎨

[@thesleepingdog4061]

#7 Rodriguez was a no brainer for a Brooklyn native to snatch it at $18,000🎨 hit that gavel

[@artistlight]

First, this guy is awesome and what a gift of joy he provides to so many. Sorry, but it's not getting any better from this point on. We are at the end of time according to the Bible. Even secular scientists believe mankind won't survive past 2040, that's only 17 years away. Place your faith and trust in Jesus and repentance of sins is the only hope for any of us. God bless you!

[@acalkckja]

*when you drew the lady on the subway and she stood up and cried, I cried also. the power of art*

[@gutchiespencer1227]

I cried too, it just seem like it brought back memories when she looked at herself....

[@Robocop_1987]

Amazing work Devon , you were probably blown away at the price it got sold . You work's would fetch even higher prices in the future your booming career , you truly deserve this and whatever awaits you in the near future .

[@edd2184]

God this brought a tear to my eye. After hearing his story, and all the struggles he's been through. Bro you deserve every moment of this, And every glorious moment in the future.

[@jumariano6995]

This is a truly wonderful artist! He has something that the most of us don't! This is art!

[@killb4udie388]

Everyone buying for his drawings of strangers while he sitting at the back drawing another one of "this hall buying his painting".

[@gavinthornton1591]

Big brain 😂

[@dmans3617]

And then passes them out to the people.

[@Adam-kx2tp]

All the art of people who first did it on KZbin are going to be worth millions one day.

[@jpongoco1728]

I feel so happy for you Devon. You made the world smile with your masterpieces

[@davidedwards4088]

Sorry France, we thank you your beautiful gift the "Statue of Liberty" But, the modern masterpieces stays home😉

[@samanthaalise5804]

Statue of Liberty is Lucifer and their is an copy of the Statue Of Liberty in France! #FreeKnowledgePassItOn

[@felvelasquezm]

Actually this was bought by a French living in the states

[@davidedwards4088]

@@felvelasquezm Touché 👏🏽👏🏽

[@BOMBAYBUBB]

Just goes to show..if you do good things, the universe will return great things back 10 fold! Congratulations young man!

[@abel2933]

Praise God, Hallelujah...what an extraordinary design he has set for us...his children...may he have mercy on us

[@longyoa2070]

10 fold, more like 10,000 fold.. he deserves it

[@micjam1986]

You bring joy into the world Devon..congrats!

[@85SA]

ممكن 😭🔔👍👏👏👏

[@jbcfamily4802]

In 100 years when someone finds one of these and has pictures of their young great grandmother along with the painting and maybe ancient digital recording of the interaction. I can see it going for 1 million due to inflation.

[@pjeffries301]

He doesn't sign them.

[@joshuu6419]

The person he painted after seeing they sold for 22k: 😐

[@keflalssj]

Imagine 😹😩😩

[@inezmickel1274]

I swearrr

[@jaymac7203]

You mean 18k?

[@melynyc5214]

@@jaymac7203 read the full description for total amount .

[@nisebiggs6572]

This auctioneer is so interesting. His tension is palpable.

[@raramcgee4982]

High end auctions pretty cool. The watch one they do once a year is insane. I do like that most auto auctions are still super fast and high energy even when dealing million dollar cars.

[@adamsmith6594]

British. A

[@andreapackfan6977]

@@raramcgee4982 I used to bid in music memorabilia auctions in the 90s at Sotheby's, Christie's, Philip's etc for my firm. The weirdest thing to get used when bidding on multiple lots was how deadly boring the time is in between those lots, then the excitement of bidding on a popular item with its attendant adrenaline rush.

[@andreapackfan6977]

*to get used to

[@reportimortal]

So you have been gifting people on the subway 10k~20k pieces of art or something like that. You're the man. I'm totally a fan. Cheers from Brazil!

[@devolutionone]

All those portraits he gives out will be worth a fortune one day 😄 💰

[@lamboaventador2398]

3999%,,,i agree

[@jamesporter7587]

The more of them he gives away for free the less valuable his pictures and painting's will be . Because they won't be rare

[@devolutionone]

@@jamesporter7587 Say that to Van Gogh who use to pay back people and pay bills by giving away paintings 🤣

[@furquoise526]

I expected the man was singing when he started to say his first word at the beginning of the video

[@Bloodysugar]

Congratulations, that's a well deserved sale. For once art money goes to something that has soul. Keep on that path !

[@jusjos1970]

They’re only going to be worth more in the future! Congratulations!!

[@travisrichardson7655]

You are incredibly talented , you are one of the great painters of our time please keep up the wonderful work

[@lk_c7214]

Love that this art is getting some $ for the talent! I’m no art expert, but I know what I like when I see it and Devon deserves all of the praise and good fortune he’s getting for his amazing work! 😍

[@hankakah4180]

When people should realize that when he did a portrait of them, it was priceless because it was a moment in time of their life, he picked them by chance, they traveled by subway that day, he gave it to them for free. They literally have works of art in their possession.

[@lifesweet4204]

This is the only Video on KZbin that ever made me feel emotional such attention to detail Devon great talent in these trying times the expressions are priceless 💯 the gap of emptiness that is fill in that little moment 💯

[@mcvenne8935]

The sound of the gavel was so satisfying.

[@lorrainelafrance8873]

Bravo Devon, it is a pleasure to see your paintings and to witness the pleasure you have in doing it. Ne lâche pas tu es beau à voir (don't give up, you are really great to watch)

[@rosieraven1603]

Congratulations, Devon. Love your vids on sketching people in the subway and their reactions. Your artworks are truly amazing and your talent is God-given and a blessing. God bless you and your humbleness. Stay true to yourself and keep doing what you're doing best... bringing happiness to those you've drawn portraits of.

[@lyndabird9401]

Congratulations Devon! This a wonderful painting. You capture so much in a few moments time. Talented

[@Massimono]

Your teacher gave you a good idea with drawing people in the subway. But you fam took it to another level by finding a dynamic perspective and channeling into the People's lives. There's a story for every picture you create. You're a champ. I want to be one of those people in the subway you're drawing.

[@Karenaboutfairness]

After watching his videos then watching this I can't imagine what he must be thinking when listening to his paintings being auctioned at those prices. Such an amazing artist.

[@LakwatserangTagaIsla]

You are amazing! A genuinely-insane-one-of-a-kind artist! Well deserved my friend. Sending love from a tiny island in the Philippines🇵🇭

[@paulgolebiowski3133]

Love your work. Best part of your videos is seeing people's reactions. Keep it up!

[@patron40silver]

Congratulations, Devon. You make the world a brighter place.🌞

[@spyce1102]

This is absolutely amazing! Congratulations!!

[@jiujitsujayJay]

I'm so happy for your success! ❤

[@pharoahseyes]

Congratulations Devon!!! All of your hard work is paying off.

[@HistoryInvestigators]

His anticipation..... he knows Devons art is worth so much ❤️ 😍 💖 ❣️ 💕 💘 and worth way more in the future!

[@Rob-eo7ku]

Love your work and the reactions of some people you draw are just beautiful.

[@jessiemoreno4845]

Congrats ,u are amazing truly gifted, Keep doing what ur doing ,being an inspiration to many out there,touching so many people with ur gift,putting smiles on people's faces,much blessings to u and ur family,thank u

[@mech3694]

Welcome back my Inspirational Artist🤩🤩

[@aloryt]

WOW‼ ️ wonderful‼ ️😃 Congratulations 🍾🎉🎊😀👍

[@anadiaz8937]

This is for real..!! Wow 😮 some of the people you drew on the subway really needed that drawing or painting you did for them. What they got was priceless this $$$ and fame is amazing and your intelligent for using social media. Thank you for connecting with people on a soul level. This helps steer our world into 5th dimension. I know I sound crazy but not to the ones that understand this at this time. This may be your purpose and you do not even know that. Thank you for sharing your love from your heart space into ours. I love you too ❤️

[@reyk3524]

Congratulations Devon, my great respect for you. Unfortunately, many artists are unlucky these days. I devoted 29 years to art, but luck never reached me.

[@ai.201]

It's ok bro. You are amazing.

[@abel2933]

PRAY TO GOD...HE HAS EVERYTHING PLANNED OUT...JUST HAVE FAITH IN HIM... I ask u even thoug i am not an expert...try to be unique,funny , Connect with audience, and above all have a heart. And pray pray pray. U will thank me later...What i am telling u ...what i saw a miracle from my own life...it is very personal...praise Jesus our God

[@reyk3524]

@@abel2933 I prayed to God to protect my relatives, but he decided to leave me in solitude so that I would suffer until I die. After that, I lost my faith in God.

[@abel2933]

@@reyk3524 Reyk...Everyone has their tests, like Job the prophet had... God is Omnipotent , Omnisious, omnipresent And perfect....His plans are beyond our level of comprehension... What God does is what benefits our soul most...our understandings are usually in terms of the flesh...i know it is easier said than done....even tho i am too weak. I had times that i asked myself...what is the point of living...what am i doing here...where i cried too much...by the way i am a grown man. But God has better days in mind...Dont let the enemy win. Stay firm. Prevail. I will pray that the better days he shined for me...to give it to you soon. And I love you brother. Its sign of the end times...very difficult time...here in our country...there was a disagreement between some region and the country...and one father lost all his 9 sons and daughter in one day...it happened in one day about months ago. Have u asked yourself what this guy will feel. With our deeds we have made evil to prosper. Lets be grateful for what we have and for God to bring the better days sooner. And pray.

[@OneEphraimite]

Congratulations bro, you deserve every bit of your success and blessing.

[@auditamplifier8493]

Absolutely beautiful, and SO well deserved... much love, brother.

[@jdstep97]

I simply LOVED this video. God speed! mi hermanito latino. Your talent will take you far, to places you never imagined. How wonderful, too, to see your efforts displayed with the accompaniment of _Ave Maria_ , one of the loveliest songs ever was. And all the art you have simply given away! May you be watched over, and your life continually enriched, by the Blessed Mother.

[@SaintZombie1]

Just think there are people out there that can say, "I have an orginal Devon Rodriguez...of myself. "

[@warlitojrradaza3803]

I love his paintings, you're one of a kind

[@NoogaJack423]

We all applaud your work and work ethic. But more so than that.. Your humility. Thank you.

[@jihaneleila8867]

C'est vraiment magnifique 💖⚡

[@chipsko2597]

When the drawings is so accurate, one day it might hv more stories to reveal , when you drawings real memories put or note some the time date and place, the Info will be important later. 😘

[@lynngordon2795]

Congratulations! I’ve watched your videos and am in awe of your talent.

[@troyc4250]

DEVON!!! Congratulations!!! True talent can’t be measured by money alone but it sure helps.

[@scottcrew5705]

Congrats DR! Had a hard road to get there but it’s finally happening for you! So happy!

[@edub9930]

Congrats Mr. Rodriguez much continued success! You are an inspiration🙏 👏

[@masonxaliala8931]

Words can't describe how good you are. Hope you stay safe and blessed.

[@sbradley3008]

Well done. Congratulations.

[@muradrazak5490]

Its not only talent but you got soul a beautiful soul truly!

[@futuretomtom2021]

You inspire me so much I hope one day I can be like you. You give back so much to people for their reactions and you make so many people’s days. I hope one day I can get to a level where I can do this too. Whenever I am feeling like quitting, I always remember what you do and how it feels to have someone go out of their way for you and I push on. Thank you so much, you bring so much happiness to people :D 😊❤️!!

[@kiwibonsai2355]

It's like another world.... Subway filled by the 99% so the 1% can play at auctions... Nothing against your work and have enjoyed watching the smiles you give for free.... Using your time to make others happy, awesome. Respect 🇳🇿

[@melynyc5214]

Actually not true , many millionaires still take subways in NYC ,not for saving money obviously for time constraints because the traffic is horrible in NYC. OUR former Mayor ,politions , lawyers, doctors you can catch them all on the subway in the city .

[@melynyc5214]

👏👏 So glad It was bought out and stayed with Brooklyn for the final as well as it should!

[@lostinpa-dadenduro7555]

Does my heart good to see a young man reaching his dreams.

[@ElMariachi1337]

Gratz man! recognition for your work

[@spencerplouzek2126]

that’s awesome!

[@ezhomes.ericjohnrico]

CONGRATULATIONS SIR ❤❤❤

[@Camquarters]

Wow this made me emotional. Felt like a final scene from a film where the star of the movie’s works are finally known to the world. Maybe there will be a documentary on you one day.

[@letivafernanda6404]

You make happy some peoples on the subway n now you have a happines for all you've done. I love for all your video man. I think you are an angle...😇

[@leonevans7866]

Devon you sir deserve all that's coming your way God bless 🙏

[@GrupoChucumite]

Congratulations my brother, your success is so well deserved. Great things are ahead for you.

[@elvedinhuskich2319]

art is MAGIC

[@renee5807]

Congratulations 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽 I Love 💜 It !!! 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@renev8223]

Congratulations 🍾 Devon! Well deserve.

[@janieness5158]

Congratulations to Devon!!!!

[@rumncoke3059]

Well earned, priceless. Congrats.

[@chivahermana]

wooooow....felicidades eres grande !!! De aquí el cielo es el límite . Que orgullo an de tener tus papis .

[@SPOOHoops]

Wowww!!! Just Wow and WOW!! Go! Devon!

[@ociomaryjane7887]

Wow Devon you really must be so proud at where you are now

[@averyfreeman6283]

To the artist, your work is truly Award Winning. How long does it take for u to draw someone?

[@Eric-jh5mp]

Apparently less time then it takes a person to get to their stop on a subway in New York lol

[@irisbfrancisco]

Congratulations brother Devon 🥳👏

[@tammyharris6645]

Love your work

[@RAJABABU-tg4ex]

I'm your big fan from India ....... Love your painting 😍😍😍😍

[@katgrey6239]

Congratulations to you, Devon!

[@janicesanders9981]

WOW...Congrats to you Devon!

[@beakittelscherz5419]

Worth every penny!

[@keidez]

Congratulations Devon

[@moehaddad5855]

I don’t regret buying it ! It was too genuine

[@mikehan7644]

I hope you don't mind this stranger feeling proud and happy for you...congrats.

[@musikeradaw]

This is the universe giving back to him.

[@josephinejossee1529]

Love ur vids man!

[@dominicanfrankster]

Congrats!

[@crystalnam-rangel]

Yesssss!!! So happy for you!

[@angesel]

Omg, your gift is amazing. Siempre he querido pintar un cuadro de naturaleza hermoso con vida o un rostro que viva en la pintura. No tengo el don. Te felicito y agradezco por todas esas personas que haz echo sonreír o emocionarse en el subway. Eso es saber usar un don divino, dar felicidad a otro ser humano. Te mereces ser mundialmente conocido.

[@nxtchpforme9154]

He really is extremely talented.

[@bpetersson5024]

being in the art world and really appreciating what Devon does, I would have expected his painting to start at a much higher level. The technical quality of the work alone demands better prices; but..there is still time..congrats, Devon! your subway portraits are the priceless pieces..

[@darrelldog5]

He deserves every penny....😊