Beeple Transforms Musk, Warhol, and Bezos into Robotic Dogs at Art Basel
A unique exhibition has taken center stage at Art Basel Miami, blending art, technology, and cultural commentary. Renowned artist Mike Winkelmann, better known as Beeple, presented his latest project, “Regular Animals,” featuring robotic quadrupeds that embody the likenesses of famous figures.
Beeple’s Robotic Creations
The installation comprises lifelike robotic dogs, each sporting hyperrealistic silicone faces of influential personalities, including Elon Musk, Andy Warhol, Mark Zuckerberg, Pablo Picasso, and Jeff Bezos. The robotic figures waddle around the fair, and when activated, they engage in a playful “poop mode” that releases printed artworks while displaying digital screens on their backs.
A Commentary on Perception
Beeple’s robots capture their surroundings through cameras, producing prints that reflect the unique artistic styles of the figures they represent. For instance, the Warhol-inspired designs are vibrant and pop-art influenced, while Picasso’s interpretations reflect his distinctive approach to visual art. According to Winkelmann, this highlights how tech moguls shape public perception through their control over powerful algorithms and media narratives.
Art Market Background
Beeple gained notoriety during the NFT art boom in 2021, when he sold a digital collage for a staggering $69.3 million at Christie’s, making him one of the highest-selling living artists. Despite the subsequent decline of the NFT market, Winkelmann has continued to expand his studio in Charleston, focusing on digital art and experimentation.
Current Trends in Digital Art
As per Art Basel’s 2025 report, digital art is witnessing a resurgence. The fair has embraced this trend with its Zero 10 section, dedicated exclusively to digital and experimental artworks. “Regular Animals” garnered significant attention, with visitors reacting with intrigue and bemusement while capturing the scene on their smartphones.
- Exhibition: Regular Animals
- Artist: Beeple (Mike Winkelmann)
- Location: Art Basel Miami
- Notable Faces: Elon Musk, Andy Warhol, Mark Zuckerberg, Pablo Picasso, Jeff Bezos
- Key Features: Robot dogs, “poop mode,” NFT prints
A New Era of Sculptural Art
Beeple anticipates that art similar to “Regular Animals” will become more prevalent as society navigates the complexities of intelligent technology. He suggests that sculptures may evolve into dynamic entities that we attribute emotions to, reflecting a deeper connection between human and robotic interactions.
Though these robotic artworks have a limited existence, as their primary function will cease after three years, their impact at the art fair was immediate. On the first day alone, all pieces were sold, marking a successful debut for Beeple’s intriguing blend of art and technology.
