Ex-CEO Countersues Museum in Fake Basquiat Artwork Scandal

A detailed look at the legal battle involving the Orlando Museum of Art and its former CEO Aaron De Groft over forged Basquiat paintings, including background on the scandal, countersuit details, and implications for the art world.

Former CEO at Center of Fake Basquiat’s Scandal Countersues Museum

In a dramatic turn of events, the former CEO of a Florida museum embroiled in a scandal involving fake Basquiat paintings has filed a countersuit against the museum. Aaron De Groft, the former executive director, is claiming wrongful termination, defamation, and breach of contract.

Overview of the Scandal

• The Incident: A former executive director of the Orlando Museum of Art (OMA), Aaron De Groft, is at the center of a scandal involving forged paintings attributed to Jean-Michel Basquiat. The FBI raided the museum in 2021 over an exhibit showcasing these paintings.
• Authenticity Questions: Doubts about the artworks’ authenticity arose shortly after their supposed discovery in 2012. The paintings, claimed to be from 1982, included anachronisms such as FedEx typeface not used until 1994, six years after Basquiat’s death.
• Owner’s Denial: The owner of the storage locker where the art was found, Thad Mumford, stated he never owned any Basquiat art and the pieces were not in the unit during his last visit. Mumford passed away in 2018.

The Countersuit by Aaron De Groft

• Wrongful Termination and Defamation: Aaron De Groft has filed counterclaims against the OMA, alleging wrongful termination and defamation. He claims he has been made a scapegoat in the scandal.
• Claims Against the Museum: De Groft argues that the museum’s lawsuit is a PR stunt to shift blame. He asserts that the board chairwoman and outside lawyers had approved the exhibit despite the FBI’s interest.
• Seeking Justice: De Groft is seeking over $50,000 for damages related to wrongful termination, defamation, and breach of contract.

Key Developments and Legal Proceedings

• Museum’s Lawsuit: The OMA previously sued De Groft and others involved in the scandal.
• Legal Responses: De Groft’s filing in state court claims that the museum’s board and legal counsel had no objections to continuing the exhibit even after FBI inquiries.
• Financial Implications: The scandal and subsequent legal actions have significant financial implications for all parties involved.

Background Information on Basquiat Forgeries

• Guilty Plea: Michael Barzman, a former Los Angeles auctioneer, pleaded guilty to federal charges of making false statements to the FBI, admitting to creating the fake Basquiat artworks.
• Artwork Details: The controversy highlights the challenges in authenticating artworks, especially those of high-profile artists like Basquiat.

Implications and Public Reaction

• Art Community’s Concerns: The scandal raises questions about due diligence and authentication processes in art exhibitions.
• Impact on OMA’s Reputation: The Orlando Museum of Art faces scrutiny regarding its verification processes and the decision to display the questioned artworks.

Future Developments

• Trial and Investigations: Ongoing investigations and legal proceedings will continue to shed light on the authenticity of the artworks and the responsibilities of the parties involved.
• Continued Media Coverage: The case attracts significant media attention, influencing public perception and the art community’s handling of similar situations in the future.

This scandal highlights the complexities and repercussions of art forgery, affecting not just the art world but also legal and ethical spheres. As the countersuit progresses, more details are expected to emerge, potentially shedding further light on this convoluted affair​​​​​​​​​​.