Photo credits: Courtesy of Mark T. Smith
Taco Bell is best known for it’s “¡Yo quiero Taco Bell!” ad campaign launched in 1997 featuring a small chihuahua named Gidget who became the mascot for Taco Bell. Best known for that until now that is. Stay with us……
Gidget
Mark T. Smith is a celebrated American painter known for his colorful, complex paintings and his passion for the application of art into the fabric of everyday life. The iconoclastic artist has done many corporate commissions including an Absolut Vodka campaign entitled “Absolut Smith.”
“In the process of doing all these different projects, a project came to me from Taco Bell,” Smith explained.
In recent years, Taco Bell has emerged as an unexpected patron of the arts, fostering a unique pop culture phenomenon that has brought contemporary art to a broader audience. His collaboration with Taco Bell is a testament to the brand’s commitment to supporting artists who push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Smith’s work for Taco Bell has played a significant role in this cultural trend. His vibrant, playful and energetic paintings have adorned Taco Bell locations worldwide, turning the fast-food chain into an unlikely yet impactful gallery space. This partnership has not only elevated Smith’s profile but has also made contemporary art more accessible to the public.
The popularity of Smith’s Taco Bell artworks has also sparked a wave of intrigue and demand, leading to a surprising phenomenon: Art heists. In a bizarre twist, numerous pieces of Smith’s artwork have been stolen from Taco Bell franchises and sold on platforms like eBay for thousands of dollars . This unprecedented demand underscores the significant cultural impact of Smith’s work and highlights the intersection of art, commerce and popular culture.
He did three paintings for Taco Bell – which takes us to the ‘until now that is.’ Enter the art heist.
Numerous pieces of his artwork have been stolen from Taco Bell franchises and sold online for thousands of dollars.
Mark’s story as told to Hollywood on the Potomac
Footnote: We are sad to report that Gidget is no longer with us.
