Acquired directly from the artist by the present owner

New York, Whitney Museum of American Art, Whitney Biennial 1985, March - June 1985

This work is in very good condition overall. The edges of the mounted canvas are slightly fraying and irregularly cut, which appears inherent to the artist's working method. There are also pre-existing staple holes visible along all four edges. The canvas mount shows signs of light wear and handling to the sides and edges. Under ultraviolet light inspection there is no evidence of restoration. Unframed.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Kenny Scharf’s fast, loud and upbeat paintings reflect the true excitement and vibrancy of New York City in the 1980s. Along with fellow artist and friend Keith Haring, 20 year old Scharf began making a name for himself in the exuberant East Village art scene with pop up exhibitions. Drawing inspiration from late night debauchery and delving further into the psychedelic lifestyle he was redefining, the first installation of what would later be famously known as the Cosmic Cavern series was created in the tiny closet of his small New York apartment in 1981.

Since then, installations have increasingly popped up as Scharf has transformed basements, galleries, museums and even RVs into Cosmic Caverns. Designed to completely overwhelm the senses, viewers lose all sense of reality upon entering. Featuring prominently in the 1985 Whitney Biennial, Scharf’s most recognizable and established exhibit, Happy 8 Eye Blu Blob perfectly encapsulates Scharf’𓄧s Pop Surrealist blend of graffiti and cartoon imagery to create a psychedelic environment like no other.