Our August auction is so full of world-renowned Contemporary artists it is hard to choose my favorites. It seems each piece is more interesting and notable than the one before! We are pleased to present work that will appeal to all levels of art collector.
Five things you cannot miss in the upcoming auction:
Lot: 1013
Jean-Michel Basquiat
“Swan Spraying” graphite on paper
Estimate: $170,000-$200,000
The crown jewel of the August auction is definitely this drawing by Basquiat. “Swan Spraying” is a minimal and lively piece. Hand signed by the artist, the work is diminutive but with a larger than life presence drawing the viewer to interpret the artist’s intent. With Basquiat bringing record-breaking prices at auction, this one seems like a bargain! It is not to be missed.
Lot: 1020
Grace Hartigan
“Palm Trees” lithograph
$1,000-$2,000
I am very excited to have this artist proof in the August auction. Grace Hartigan was a pure force of Abstract Expressionism and one of the most celebrated of female painters. She later called Baltimore her home and we are always thrilled to present the work of one of our own. The auction estimates for “Palm Trees” are at an attractive level, which should appeal to a range of collectors. Simple and monochromatic, it is a lovely and striking example of her work.
Lot: 1040
Alexander Calder
From “Our Unfinished Revolution” Lithograph
$1,200-$1,800
Although best know for his mobiles, this lithograph is an excellent example of what we think of when we think of Calder. Bright colors, amorphous shapes and playful composition define this piece. It would be a feature piece in any room and although the colors are bold, the piece simultaneously manages to be soothing.
Lot: 1073
Claes Oldenberg
Lithograph dated 1963
$150-$200
Lot 1074:
Roy Lichtenstein
“Girl”Lithograph
$4250-$4750
I am so excited that Alex Cooper is offering three pieces from the famed “One Cent Life” publication. (Two are featured here, but the third is Lot 1075). “One Cent Life” was a creatively ambitious endeavor that brought together in a single publication 62 original lithographs by 28 artists. Walasse Ting was an artist and poet whose work flows throughout the publication. Both pieces are visually striking. I love that the Oldenberg features Ting’s poetry and I appreciate the whimsy of the slice of cake. The Lichtenstein is so quintessentially Lichtenstein, I love looking at it and am always impressed how the artist simulated cartoon “dots” by hand. I want them all.
The August 26th auction is currently live online—bid now to make these amazing pieces yours!
Kathleen Hamill: Contemporary Art Specialist