The Omaha Marriott became a hub of conversation last weekend during the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, thanks to a 24-inch tall, bronze bust sculpture of the late Charlie Munger. Munger, who passed away in November at the age of 99, was a renowned investment icon and the longtime partner of Warren Buffett. The sculpture, placed in the hotel lobby next to Berkshire-owned jewelry store Borsheims, caught the attention of numerous Berkshire shareholders and special admirers, including Munger’s daughter Wendy and his executive assistant Doerthe Obert. The presence of the sculpture, accompanied by glasses of champagne and brochures, added a touch of elegance to the event.
Yu Shu, a 39-year-old artist and Berkshire shareholder, was the talent behind the Munger bust sculpture. Her journey to creating this piece of art was a labor of love that spanned 12 months and multiple attempts to capture Munger’s likeness accurately. Yu’s admiration for Munger led her to visit his home in Los Angeles in March 2023 in the hopes of showing him the sculpture in progress. Although she was unable to meet Munger himself, she received valuable close-up shots of his profile from Doerthe Obert to help her refine the facial details of the sculpture.
Inspired by Warren Buffett’s advice to do what you love, Yu decided to turn her passion for art and Berkshire into a business. At the 2022 Berkshire annual meeting, Buffett’s words resonated with her, pushing her to pursue her dream of becoming a professional artist. Yu’s dedication to her craft and her admiration for Munger made him the perfect subject for her inaugural sculpture. She likened the process of creating a bronze sculpture to value investing, emphasizing the importance of patience and persistence in both endeavors.
During the Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, a longtime shareholder made a significant purchase by acquiring the Munger bust that graced the lobby of the Omaha Marriott. The buyer, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed the intention of gifting the artwork to the Munger family. This gesture serves as a poignant reminder of the lasting impact Munger had on the investment world and the people who admired him.
Charlie Munger’s legacy lives on through the artistry of Yu Shu and the timeless beauty of the bronze bust sculpture. The intricate details and sheer dedication that went into creating this piece reflect the profound respect and admiration that Munger inspired in those who knew him. As a symbol of excellence and perseverance, the Munger bust serves as a fitting tribute to a man whose wisdom and insight continue to influence generations of investors.