David Choe: Art, NFTs, & Street Art Evolution In 2024

Krystel Feeney 20 May 2025

Is there a single artist who embodies the raw energy and multifaceted nature of contemporary art? David Choe, a name synonymous with audacious creativity and boundary-pushing expression, stands as a testament to the power of artistic freedom and the unwavering pursuit of originality.

Born in Los Angeles in 1976, David Choe's life and career have been anything but conventional. His journey, marked by a relentless drive to create, has led him from the gritty streets of urban landscapes to the hallowed halls of the art world. Choes talent transcends the traditional confines of art, encompassing painting, murals, graffiti, podcasting, acting, and music. His work appears in a wide variety of urban culture and entertainment contexts, demonstrating his versatility and relevance in today's creative climate. His approach is characterized by a profound understanding of the human condition. Choe's art explores themes of desire, degradation, and exaltation. His ability to translate his unique perspective onto various mediums has solidified his place as a preeminent figure in modern art.

Category	Details
Full Name	David Choe
Born	April 22, 1976, Los Angeles, California, USA
Nationality	American
Education	California Institute of the Arts (BFA, MFA)
Known For	Street Art, Painting, Murals, Podcasts, Acting
Artistic Style	Raw, frenetic, often sexually explicit, blending comics, gothic art, surrealism, and pornography
Media	Oils, acrylics, collage, ink, watercolor
Notable Works	Murals for Facebook and Google, work in the White House, NFT collection "Munko"
Career Highlights	Illustrated for magazines like Hustler and Vice, Forbes 30 Under 30, appearances in Netflix series 'Beef'
Current Location	Lives and paints in New York City
Teaching	Teaches drawing and painting at the School of Visual Arts
Website Reference	Artnet - David Choe

Choe's artistic journey began with the spray can in hand, marking his territory on the urban canvas. His early work, rooted in the raw energy of graffiti, evolved into a distinct style that defied categorization. His art is visceral, often sexually explicit, and unafraid to confront societal taboos. Choe's paintings, murals, and prints are instantly recognizable for their dynamic lines, bold colors, and often confrontational themes. They draw from a diverse range of influences, from comics and gothic art to surrealism and pornography, creating a visual language that is both seductive and provocative. His pieces are frequently filled with humor and social commentary.

The transition from street art to the gallery space was seamless for Choe. His work found its way into prestigious exhibitions and private collections, garnering critical acclaim and commercial success. He was represented by the Amy Lipton Gallery and has seen his pieces grace the walls of the White House, a testament to his impact and influence. His work has also appeared in galleries and the pages of magazines like Hustler, showcasing his diverse range of artistic mediums and audiences.

One of Choe's most notable achievements is his involvement in the Netflix series 'Beef.' His original artwork is featured in the title cards of each episode, and he also portrays the character of Cousin Isaac. The series' success highlights Choe's ability to connect with a wider audience and his influence within the entertainment industry.

Beyond painting, Choe has made significant inroads in other areas of art and culture. He is outspoken, opinionated, and uses his platform to engage with his audience. His podcast, 'The Choe Show,' provides a candid look at his life and thoughts, solidifying his reputation as an influential figure who is not afraid to speak his mind. Choe's foray into the world of NFTs and blockchain technology marked another innovative leap, creating the world's first NFT video collection based on his childhood character, Munko. The collection involved the generation of 10,000 unique video versions of Munko, a collection of 25 Munko NFT types, which shows that Choe is continually looking for new ways to express himself.

Choe's work is never static. He has an enduring impact, and he is constantly exploring new avenues of creative expression. Choe's artistic trajectory hints at a flourishing future where street art, social commentary, and technology intersect more than ever. His ability to stay ahead of the curve has placed him as a visionary in the art world. From Los Angeles, where his artistic journey commenced, to New York City, where he currently lives and paints, Choe continues to push the boundaries of what art can be. His ability to connect with strangers and convey messages through unconventional methods is a great example of his talent. In essence, David Choe's art is a reflection of life itself: messy, complex, and utterly captivating. His works can be found across the globe, from murals in Miami's Wynwood Walls to gallery exhibitions. His paintings, prints, and murals are all indicative of the breadth of his talent. His impact on art and culture is undeniable, and his legacy as a boundary-breaking, innovative artist is secure.

The value of a David Choe artwork can range significantly, reflecting the diversity of his output. Prices at auction have ranged from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the size, medium, and the specific piece. His artwork is also available to view online on the Artnet website.