The Pride Collection of James H. Williams, Educator, AIDS Activist and Publisher of Baltimore OUTLoud Magazine
Lot 391: Artist Unknown. The Embrace, Estimate:
$300 – $500.
It’s humbling to work with private collectors to review and prepare their beloved art work for auction as they downsize or transition to retirement communities. Often their life stories are as interesting and intrinsically valuable as the pieces themselves. I spent the afternoon with Mr. Williams following his recent move into assisted living and was so inspired by his life and accomplishments. He truly was a man ahead of his time.
Lot 385: Vernon Lee Reynolds. “Gay Fest on Eager Street,” Estimate:
$200 – $400.
In addition to his historically significant and monumental success working with school boards in the south to integrate them in the 1960’s, he became an instrumental advocate for AIDS activism and gay rights. He went on to become the Executive Director of Movable Feast followed by the Executive Director of AIDS Interfaith Residential Services (AIRS) and most recently launched Baltimore OUTLoud.
Lot 388: Andrew Dunbar. “Steve, 1998,” Estimate: $400 – $600.
James became an avid art collector, buying works from around the world during his travels, but the most notable pieces of his collection are representative of the LGBTQ community. Mr. Williams was a staunch supporter of LGBTQ artists and purchased a wide variety of works in various media including photography, works on paper, and paintings. His collection is a celebration of art and life.
Highlights of the auction include the following remarkable pieces:
Lot 380: Artist Unknown, Nude with Angel Wings $500-$700.
Lot 393: Vernon Lee Reynolds, “The Electrician” $300-$500.
Lot 394: Frank Yamrus, “Marc-Ascend” $1000-$2000.
Lot 398: Tom Bianchi, Nude Males in Pool $500-$700.
And, lastly, purchased and an AIDS Action Auction,
Lot 399: Elton John Autographed Piano Bench, $5000-$6000.
Alex Cooper is very pleased to be bringing this notable collection to a wider audience and to celebrate Pride Month all year long.
For full auction listings and bidding links click here.
Happy Collecting! For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Hamill, Director of Modern & Contemporary Art
(410) 828 – 4838 x 108
kathleen@alexcooper.com