Sotheby’s Contemporary Day Auction: A Spectacle of Modern Art
© 2024 THE ANDY WARHOL FOUNDATION FOR THE VISUAL ARTS, INC. / LICENSED BY DACS, LONDON. Image: Sothebys.com
Mark your calendars for June 26, 2024, as Sotheby’s gears up for a remarkable event that promises to be a feast for art enthusiasts worldwide. The prestigious New Bond Street Galleries in London will host the highly anticipated Contemporary Day Auction, an affair that not only showcases groundbreaking contemporary art but also features an exquisite collection from the esteemed Ralph I. Goldenberg. This season’s auction is not just an event; it’s a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the daring spirit of modern artists.
A Curated Collection of Modern Masters
This year’s Contemporary Day Auction brings together an eclectic mix of paintings, drawings, and sculptures from some of the most celebrated and sought-after artists of our time. The line-up includes big names like George Condo, Alex Katz, Jennifer Guidi, Sarah Sze, and Tauba Auerbach, alongside iconic works from Andy Warhol, Robert Indiana, Kazuo Shiraga, and Frank Auerbach. Each piece encapsulates the innovative ways these artists have dared to challenge and redefine the norms of the art world over the past seventy years.
Spotlight on Ralph I. Goldenberg Collection
One of the auction’s highlights is the inclusion of sixty-two works from the prestigious collection of Ralph I. Goldenberg. Known for his unique vision and intellectual curiosity, Goldenberg’s collection is a testament to his dedication to the art world. His carefully curated selection reflects his exceptional personality, marked by a profound appreciation for art that transcends conventional boundaries.
Highlights: Warhol and Kusama
Two standout pieces that have already generated significant buzz are Andy Warhol’s “Joseph Beuys” and Yayoi Kusama’s “A Pumpkin (TWX).” These masterpieces not only showcase the extraordinary talent of their creators but also highlight the diverse range of styles and themes that define contemporary art.
Andy Warhol’s “Joseph Beuys”
Andy Warhol’s “Joseph Beuys” is a striking acrylic and silkscreen ink on canvas, measuring 101.6 by 101.6 cm (40 by 40 inches), and framed at 108 by 108 cm (42½ by 42½ inches). Executed in 1980, this piece is signed and dated on the reverse, adding to its authenticity and value. The painting is currently estimated at 400,000–600,000 GBP, with a current bid of 350,000 GBP.
This work is a part of a distinguished private collection and has a rich provenance, having been displayed at prestigious venues such as the Venice Biennale and the Skarstedt Gallery in New York. It last changed hands in 2015 at the Thaddaeus Ropac gallery in Salzburg, now belonging to the present owner. The painting’s history and its creator’s fame make it a coveted piece for collectors and Warhol enthusiasts alike.
Yayoi Kusama’s “A Pumpkin (TWX)”
Yayoi Kusama, known for her distinctive style and recurring motifs, presents “A Pumpkin (TWX),” a mesmerizing acrylic on canvas piece measuring 15.4 by 22.5 cm (7½ by 9 inches) and framed at 28.7 by 35.7 cm (11¼ by 14 inches). Executed in 2003, this work is signed, titled, and dated on the reverse, and comes with a registration card issued by YAYOI KUSAMA Inc., further cementing its authenticity.
Currently bid at 220,000 GBP, with an estimate of 200,000–300,000 GBP, this piece originates from a private collection in Japan and was acquired from Gallery Meiji in Tokyo in 2005. Kusama’s pumpkins are iconic, symbolizing both simplicity and the infinite, making this piece a must-have for contemporary art collectors.
An Auction Not to Be Missed
The Contemporary Day Auction is more than just a sale; it’s a convergence of art, history, and passion. The pieces on offer, particularly the highlights from Warhol and Kusama, provide a glimpse into the minds of artists who have shaped the contemporary art scene. Whether you’re an avid collector, an art enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of modern art, this auction promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Preparing for the Auction
For those interested in participating, Sotheby’s provides a seamless experience with options to bid in person, online, or via telephone. It’s essential to register in advance to secure your place and ensure you’re prepared to engage in the bidding process. Detailed lot descriptions, condition reports, and provenance information are available on the Sotheby’s website, allowing bidders to make informed decisions.
Conclusion
Sotheby’s Contemporary Day Auction on June 26, 2024, is set to be a landmark event in the art calendar. With an impressive roster of artists, a distinguished collection from Ralph I. Goldenberg, and standout pieces from Andy Warhol and Yayoi Kusama, this auction embodies the spirit of innovation and artistic excellence. Don’t miss your chance to witness and possibly own a piece of contemporary art history. Register to bid, prepare to be inspired, and join for an unforgettable day at the New Bond Street Galleries in London.
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