Arthur J. Williams Jr., one of the greatest counterfeiters of modern history, hosted an exhibition of his work at The Setai Hotel during Miami Art Week selling half a million dollars of art in less than four hours, with a portion of the proceeds benefitting After-School All-Stars, the nation’s largest nonprofit organization helping at-risk youth.
Partnered with Haute Residence, over 300 VIPS experienced an enjoyable invite-only soiree showcasing nearly 50 original pieces by Williams’ which was displayed in the hotel’s lounge and iconic courtyard. Featured works included interactive 3-D paintings, images of Kim Kardashian, Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sinatra and other celebrities; and Williams’ visual imagery of Benjamin Franklin’s $100-dollar bill.
Guest sipped crafted cocktails, such as “The Arty” which was made with chili-infused vodka, passion fruit-infused rum, passion fruit pulp, ginger syrup and chili flakes. Savory bites included tuna tartare cones, truffle pizza, black angus beef tartare, shrimp lollipops, Singaporean chicken skewers and more.
Popular New York DJ Bouboulena spun in the VIP lounge which featured a gold giving tree where guest could take money out of the customized ATM and pin their cash donation to the golden palm tree with 100% of funds collected benefitting at-risk youth.
“We are so honored to work with Arthur as he is such a passionate supporter of our mission to help kids. His generosity is heartfelt and genuine. It’s his way of changing the future of kids who are challenged by poverty and crime as he did when he was a kid,” said Natalia Sol, National SVP of Strategic Partnerships at After-School All-Stars.
Williams is best known for being the counterfeiter who successfully replicated the supposedly impossible to replicate 1996 $100 bill in the United States. Williams printed an estimated $10 million dollars in fabricated money before landing himself in prison for nearly seven years. While serving time, Williams became a household name making national headlines including coverage in Rolling Stone, Vice, and Forbes. He was also featured on the primetime television show “American Greed,” and was the subject of Jason Kersten’s book The Art of Making Money.
“I am honored to be a part of all the excitement and talent that surrounds Miami Art Week,” explains Williams. “I stand as living proof that there are second chances in life and I hope to serve as an inspiration to others proving one can always turn things around even when it seems you are at the end of the rope.”
Williams continues to use his artistic ability to inspire others around him especially with his new “1875 Freedom Collection,” which focuses on the currency printed in honor of the enactment of the Civil Liberties Act. Each bill is designed with a powerful, female character representing the strength of America.
Photos courtesy of Getty Images for Arthur J. Williams Jr.
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