Julien’s Auctions and Turner Classic Movies, the hosts of a live auction featuring personal possessions of the late David Lynch, embarked on an emotional journey through Los Angeles. The director's iconic red leather chair, personalized with his name, was transported to several locations that hold deep significance in Lynch's life and cinematic legacy. This symbolic tour concluded with a poignant stop at Variety’s office on Monday.
Known as The David Lynch Collection, this highly anticipated auction will take place on Wednesday at the Peninsula Beverly Hills and simultaneously online at juliensauctions.com. It is a celebration of Lynch's unparalleled contributions to cinema, offering fans and collectors alike a rare opportunity to own pieces of his world.
In the days leading up to the event, the chair embarked on a mysterious citywide tour, visiting places that resonate deeply within Lynch's filmography and personal history. Clues were shared on social media, inviting fans to guess each location. The journey began at Winkie’s Diner, famously featured in "Mulholland Drive," on June 12. From there, it traveled to the Mulholland Drive street sign, the intersection of Hollywood and La Brea (where Lynch once staged a spirited protest advocating for Laura Dern's recognition), and Bob’s Big Boy, a Toluca Lake diner where Lynch often gathered with stars like Dern and Kyle MacLachlan. These stops were livestreamed on Julien’s Instagram from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. PT, allowing viewers worldwide to witness the tribute firsthand.
The chair itself, estimated to fetch between $5,000 and $7,000, serves as a centerpiece for the auction, which features over 450 objects. Among these treasures are Lynch's musical instruments, furniture, props, home decor, and more—each piece reflecting the unique artistic vision of a man whose work continues to inspire awe and introspection. Bidders can participate in person, online, via phone, or by submitting an absentee bid form.
David Lynch, the visionary filmmaker behind masterpieces such as "Mulholland Drive," "Blue Velvet," "Wild at Heart," and "Twin Peaks," passed away on January 15. His passing left a profound void in the world of cinema but also sparked renewed interest in his enduring legacy.
“Julien’s and TCM are honored to represent and offer to the public, for the very first time, this extraordinary collection from one of the greatest and most revered filmmakers of all time, David Lynch,” said Catherine Williamson, Managing Director of Entertainment for Julien’s Auctions, in a previous statement. “These historical and cherished pieces embody David Lynch’s singular artistic vision, as well as his passions and pursuits—from his director’s chair and espresso machine to his guitar, record collections, and ‘Twin Peaks’-style decor. They come directly from the home of the visionary artist whose enigmatic films stirred our most imaginative and collective surreal dreams.”
