The Strauss & Co fine art auctioneers and consultants are proud to introduce and auction an exhibition in their new space in Houghton. Art specialist Wilhelm van Rensburg was excited to tell us all about it, and why it is definately worth the drive.
“Strauss & Co is very pleased to have our very first auction in our brand-new premises at Houghton Estate. We used to have our auctions at the Wanderers Club. The works really come into their own on these walls. We will also be conducting the live auction in this venue, of course, it its preceded by a long process of consigning art works.
“For this particular auction there are just over 200 works. We’re very fond of focusing on a theme each year for our exhibitions and this year the theme was ‘South African artists in Paris’. “When doing research we found that some SA artists went there from as early as 1890 right up to today.”
Art has been an important part of South Africa’s rich history. The Absa L’Atelier exhibition has been in existence for over 20 years, back then it was known as Volkskas Atelier. Renowned South African artist Penny Siopis was the first to scoop the award with her well-known piece, Melancholia.
The sale welcomes a companion of that piece titled Act I Scene II going at an estimated R2.8 to 3.5 million, the lot has various pictorial elements which also appeared in Melancholia.Another notable piece, explained art specialist and head of department at Stauss & Co, Dr Alastair Meredith is that of the illustrious art polymath, William Kentridge.
“Paris influences are evident in his works. After studying mime and theatre in Paris, Kentridge returned to his passion of art and produced Iris – an unusual colour piece with influences from Van Gogh’s Provencal tones of blue and purple. It’s a very rare piece and we feel quite lucky to have it here with us.”
This upcoming auction is a huge opportunity for collectors and art lovers to explore the rich history of South Africa and its bond with the beautiful city of Paris. The auction and exhibition is open to the public.
Interested people can look forward to lectures, art walkabouts and a whole lot of live auction action. Get ready to be immersed in the art world from 9 to 11 November. Details: www.straussart.co.za
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