Andrew Barber of Fake Shore Drive blog sat down with Eric Arginksy, the owner and creator of the bear costume showcased in Kanye West’s The College Dropout album, as they discuss the creation of the mascot ensemble as well as the hefty price tag it currently carries.
The bear that was actually used in the album cover is owned by the high school that was where the photoshoot was held and declined the offer of selling the costume to the record label. In lieu of the situation, Mr. West wore this customized bear suit, made from Arginsky, in promotion of the release at The Grammy’s and other highlight events.
According to the interview, he was supposed to launch a stuffed animal line with the Chicago rapper but eventually died down and resulting in him keeping the costume. Arginsky is now offering up the collectible to someone who would take great care of the item or is actually an enthusiast.
The Northeast native first got in touch with Phat Farm and eventually worked with companies in relation to DMX and JAY-Z which catapulted him to create the signature teddy bear. Arginsky kept the bear for over 15 years now and is currently selling the prized item for $1 million USD which served as more than just a collectible as it represents a historical moment in hip-hop and Ye’s career beginnings.
In other Ye news, Big Sean and Hit-Boy explained why Kanye West “can be very hard to work with.”
