David Choe, the American painter, graffiti artist, graphic novelist, and muralist, has amassed an impressive net worth of $300 million as of 2023. His journey from the streets of Los Angeles to becoming a renowned artist is nothing short of remarkable. One pivotal moment in his career that significantly contributed to his wealth was his association with Facebook. How did he make so much money from Facebook? Here’s what we know so far about David Choe’s earnings.
Who is David Choe?
Born on April 21, 1976, in Los Angeles, California, David Choe was raised by Korean immigrants. His c journey began when he drew inspiration from graffiti artists Hex and Mear One. It led him to venture into graffiti in 1990. His childhood fascination with imagery from “Star Wars” and “G.I. Joe” was pivotal to his artistic development.
However, the path to success was not without its challenges. The 1992 L.A. riots devastated his family’s real estate business, compelling him to drop out of high school. He hitchhiked across the Americas, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East for two years. This adventurous odyssey shaped his perspective and honed his artistic skills.
After returning to California at the age of 21, David Choe enrolled at the California Institute of the Arts. But he eventually dropped out to pursue his unique artistic path. Soon he became a prominent figure in graffiti, showcasing his work on the streets of Los Angeles.
Notable Achievements of David Choe
David Choe’s artwork found its way into prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles and the Smithsonian American Art Museum in Washington, D.C. His novels, including “Bruised Fruit” and “Slow Jams,” gained recognition and further solidified his reputation as a multi-talented artist.
One of the defining moments in his career was when Facebook came calling. The social media giant would forever change the trajectory of his wealth.
How Did He Make Money From Facebook?
David Choe’s association with Facebook began when Facebook president Sean Parker hired him to paint murals at the company’s headquarters in Silicon Valley.
Parker’s vision was to transform Facebook’s original headquarters in Silicon Valley with Choe’s vibrant and distinctive murals. Despite Choe’s initial reservations about social media platforms like MySpace and his skepticism towards Facebook’s potential, he agreed to undertake the ambitious project. The commission came with a significant payout – a hefty sum of $60,000.
However, the pivotal moment came when Parker offered Choe a choice: cash or company stock. Although Facebook was far from the tech giant it is today and was considered by many as a risky venture, Parker advised Choe to opt for the stock. Choe decided to take the stock option, marking a daring and unconventional move.
The decision to accept Facebook stock was indeed a gamble, as the platform’s future was uncertain at the time. But in 2012, when Facebook went public with an initial share price of $38, Choe’s stock options suddenly became immensely valuable. The stock price continued to rise, with shares now trading at more than $171 each. This turned Choe into a bona fide multimillionaire almost overnight.
Since then, Facebook’s stock has experienced substantial growth, potentially increasing the value of Choe’s holdings to a staggering $300-500 million.
David Choe’s unique journey to making money from Facebook showcases how life can be full of unexpected opportunities. His willingness to take a risk and accept stock in a startup he once considered “ridiculous” ultimately led to a financial windfall that changed his life forever.
David Choe’s Skills Beyond the Canvas
David Choe’s talents extend beyond the realm of painting and graffiti. He co-hosted the “DVDASA” podcast with adult film star Asa Akira from 2013 to 2015. In addition to his podcasting venture, Choe made guest appearances in popular TV shows like “The Mandalorian,” “Better Things,” “Vice,” and “Anthony Bourdain: Parts Unknown.” His novel, “David Choe,” was released in 2020, and he collaborated with renowned musicians, including Jay-Z and Linkin Park’s Mike Shinoda.
Conclusion
David Choe’s journey from humble beginnings to a net worth of $300 million in 2023 is a testament to his artistic talents and wise financial decisions. His collaboration with Facebook, which he once considered “ridiculous,” transformed him into a wealthy artist.
Choe’s story is a reminder that success can stem from unexpected opportunities and unconventional choices. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike, showcasing the extraordinary possibilities that life can offer.
