Introduction
Dave Cho Facebook Building is one of those incredible stories where art, business, and sheer luck collide in a way that forever changed the trajectory of a man’s career. Choe, a talented and controversial artist known for his bold and raw “dirty style” of painting, unknowingly became a part of tech history in 2005 when he was asked to paint murals for Facebook’s first headquarters in Palo Alto, California. What started as a simple art commission would evolve into a multi-million-dollar investment, illustrating how art and technology can intertwine in ways no one expects.
Early Life and Artistic Career of David Choe
Before his involvement with Facebook, David Choe was already an established artist, though not yet a household name. Born in Los Angeles in 1976 to Korean immigrant parents, Choe grew up in a rough neighborhood where his early exposure to the streets shaped his gritty, unfiltered approach to art. As a teenager, Choe was drawn to the world of graffiti, but as he matured, his style evolved into more detailed, provocative, and often controversial paintings.
By the time he entered the art scene in the early 2000s, Choe had already garnered attention for his vivid murals and distinct techniques. His art was infused with rawness, energy, and a rebellious spirit, which made him stand out in the competitive world of contemporary art. Despite facing some criticism for the boldness and sexual undertones in his work, Choe remained steadfast in his artistic vision. He was a true original, and it was this unique quality that eventually led to his connection with Facebook.
The Facebook Commission: A Turning Point
In 2005, Facebook was a small startup operating out of a modest office in Palo Alto, California. The company was still in its infancy, and its founders—Mark Zuckerberg, Eduardo Saverin, and others—were focused on growing the platform into something larger than just a college networking tool. At that time, the idea of Facebook being a global giant was still a distant dream.
When the Facebook team sought out an artist to paint murals for their office space, they came across Choe’s work. Impressed by his unique style, they reached out to him with a commission to paint the walls of the company’s headquarters. Choe’s murals were vibrant, energetic, and as bold as ever, incorporating provocative and graphic elements that captured his distinct voice. His work helped give Facebook’s headquarters a creative, lively atmosphere that reflected the youthful energy of the company itself.
The commission was for a fairly standard fee—$60,000—but Choe, always the entrepreneur, was offered another option: Instead of taking cash, he could opt for 0.25% of Facebook’s stock. At the time, Facebook was still a small player in the tech world, with no guarantees about its future. The offer seemed risky, but Choe decided to gamble, accepting the stock instead of the money.
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Facebook’s Rise and the Gamble Pays Off
The story of how Choe’s decision to accept stock instead of cash transformed his life is one of those rare examples of luck and foresight intersecting perfectly. Facebook’s valuation was relatively low in 2005, but over the next several years, the company would grow at an explosive rate. By 2012, when Facebook went public with its IPO, the company was valued at hundreds of billions of dollars, and the stock was worth far more than anyone could have imagined back in the early days.
Choe’s 0.25% stake in Facebook, which he had secured with the mural commission, ballooned in value. When Facebook went public, Choe’s stock was worth an astounding $200 million. His decision, made nearly a decade earlier, had paid off in ways he could have never predicted. This massive windfall made him one of the wealthiest artists in the world, and it changed the way the art world viewed the intersection of creativity and technology.
But Choe’s involvement with Facebook wasn’t just about the financial payoff. His murals became iconic representations of the company’s early days, symbolizing the creativity and ambition that would eventually define Facebook’s culture. His work played a key role in shaping the identity of the company during a formative period. Choe’s influence extended far beyond the walls of Facebook’s office—his art contributed to a culture of innovation, risk-taking, and boldness that would later propel Facebook to international success.
More Than Just an Artist: David Choe’s Other Ventures
While the story of Choe’s financial success with Facebook is often the most discussed part of his career, there’s much more to David Choe than just his murals. Over the years, Choe has built a multifaceted career that spans art, podcasting, acting, and philanthropy. He has become a symbol of the unconventional artist who defies expectations, embracing new opportunities and evolving his work in ways that others might shy away from.
In addition to his visual art, Choe’s career took a significant turn when he ventured into the world of podcasting. His podcast, DVDASA, which he co-hosts with his friend and fellow artist, Asa Akira, delves into a wide range of topics, including art, pop culture, and the challenges of living life as an artist. The podcast has gained a significant following, with Choe’s candidness and unapologetic style making it a standout in the crowded world of podcasting.
Choe’s venture into acting further expanded his creative reach. He appeared in the 2023 Netflix series Beef, where he portrayed a character that reflected his signature unapologetic style. His role in Beef was well-received, and it showcased his versatility as an artist. His work on this show cemented his place not just as a visual artist but as a multifaceted creative force.
Additionally, Choe has used his platform to give back to the community. He has been involved in several charitable endeavors, using his wealth and influence to help others. His philanthropic efforts reflect a more nuanced side of his character—one that values giving back and supporting causes that align with his values.
Choe’s Philosophy on Art and Risk-Taking
David Choe’s journey is a testament to the power of risk-taking and the unpredictable nature of both art and business. His decision to take Facebook’s stock instead of a paycheck wasn’t just a financial gamble; it was a reflection of his belief in the potential of new ideas and ventures. Choe saw Facebook not just as a tech company but as a platform that could change the world, and he took a chance on it. His story is a reminder that sometimes, the most significant rewards come from the most unlikely sources.
Choe’s philosophy on art is similarly bold. He has always been vocal about his belief that art should not be confined by boundaries. His work is often graphic and raw, designed to provoke thought and challenge societal norms. Choe rejects the idea that art should be safe or politically correct. Instead, he embraces the power of shock value and the freedom that comes with creating without restrictions. This approach has earned him both admiration and criticism, but he remains steadfast in his commitment to authenticity.
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The Lasting Impact of Choe’s Murals on Facebook’s Culture
Choe’s murals at Facebook’s headquarters were more than just decorations for the office. They were emblematic of the company’s early spirit—a spirit that embraced creativity, risk, and an unorthodox approach to business. His art helped establish the unique culture that would eventually become synonymous with Silicon Valley startups. Facebook, like many tech companies, prided itself on being different, on thinking outside the box, and on pushing the boundaries of what was possible. Choe’s murals were a perfect visual representation of that mindset.
Moreover, Choe’s artwork played a significant role in fostering a sense of community within Facebook. The murals were not only part of the company’s aesthetic; they became a part of its identity. Employees working in the office every day were constantly surrounded by Choe’s vibrant and bold creations, which helped fuel the company’s creative and entrepreneurial spirit. His art became synonymous with Facebook’s ethos—an ethos that prioritized innovation, risk-taking, and creativity above all else.
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Conclusion
Dave Cho Facebook Building through his murals is a remarkable tale of how art, luck, and business can intertwine in unexpected ways. What began as a simple artistic commission turned into one of the most lucrative decisions in modern art and tech history, showcasing the powerful intersection of creativity and innovation. Choe’s murals not only helped shape Facebook’s identity in its formative years but also became iconic symbols of the company’s bold, risk-taking culture. His decision to accept Facebook stock instead of a cash payment elevated him from a celebrated artist to one of the wealthiest and most influential figures in the contemporary art world. Choe’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, taking a risk and trusting in unconventional opportunities can lead to life-changing rewards.
FAQs
1. How did David Choe become involved with Facebook?
David Choe was commissioned in 2005 to paint murals at Facebook’s first headquarters in Palo Alto. His bold and provocative art style impressed the Facebook team, leading to the collaboration.
2. What was the deal David Choe made with Facebook?
Instead of receiving a $60,000 cash payment for his work, David Choe opted for 0.25% of Facebook’s stock, a decision that would later turn into a multi-million-dollar windfall.
3. How much was David Choe’s Facebook stock worth when the company went public?
When Facebook went public in 2012, Choe’s 0.25% stake in the company was worth an estimated $200 million.
4. What other ventures has David Choe been involved in?
In addition to his visual art, Choe has ventured into podcasting with his show DVDASA and acting, most notably in the 2023 Netflix series Beef. He has also engaged in philanthropy, using his platform to support various causes.
5. How did David Choe’s murals influence Facebook’s culture?
Choe’s murals became integral to Facebook’s early identity, representing the company’s youthful energy, creativity, and risk-taking mindset. His art helped establish a unique and vibrant culture that would define Facebook’s rise as a global tech giant.
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