It seems that many artists make more money and gain more notoriety after they die. From painters to musicians, artists who have passed on continue to reach high billboard music stature and sell pieces for millions. Why is this?
The most obvious point and explaination for a deceased artist's increaed popularity is that they will no longer make a single piece of artwork again. The number of pieces are limited to what is currently in existance at the time of their death, making each of those works immediately increase in value. Simple theory of supply and demand.
I also think that our society seems to romanticize the idea of artists and musicains who have died. John Lennon is loved and admired by many, including those who were born many, many years after his passing. These younger fans are so dedicated to his ideals and music, yet they only know of his philosophies and music from books, old videos, records and stories. And of course no one is going to speak ill of such an icon, so it's no wonder he is so loved. (As a side note, I do like John Lennon, I'm just not part of the cult following).
Another reason for an increased value of an artist's work who has gone to the other side is that everything old is new again. Like fashion, art is cyclical and the fun, exciting and hippest thing from generations ago becomes the in thing for those in the know. Bell bottoms, Converse, Jelly shoes and even the famous Danzig hair cut is cool again today. To get an origional item from fifteen-thirty years ago would be the ultimate in coolness, but many hipsters will settle for a mass marketed replica. The same is for music and art. An origional painting or vinyl record will likely fetch a hefty sale price.
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