Auctions have long been staple events in the worlds of Western and historic art, and now works of contemporary realism—in the style of what we cover in American Art Collector—are increasingly showing up among the lots in sales hosted by preeminent houses like Sotheby’s, as well as smaller, boutique operations nationwide.
Ed Mell, Pink Rose, oil on canvas, 30 x 30”. Estimate: $25/35,000
Larsen Gallery in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializes in auctions of contemporary art, which they define as works created after 1945. At 10 a.m. Mountain Standard Time on Saturday, April 20, Larsen Gallery will open up its Spring Auction to registered bidders.
This twice-annual sale features contemporary paintings, sculptures and limited edition graphics by international and national artists, living and deceased.
In addition to pieces by big name Southwest artists such as Billy Schenck, Howard Post, Fritz Scholder and Allan Houser, their auctions usually include a smaller section of traditional Western works and landscapes; as well as modern pieces, including furniture, by top name designers. “Our auctions also usually have a large selection of glass and ceramics, and the upcoming auction is no exception with several lots by Dale Chihuly as well as many other renowned artists,” says gallery owner Polly Larsen. “With over 400 lots in our upcoming auction, we are excited to share a diversity of artists, styles and price ranges.”
The latter is refreshingly evident in the contemporary realism category with works like Ed Mell’s Pink Rose given a high estimate of $35,000; compared with lovely pieces by Dennis Ziemienski valued at $1,000 on the low end, and Kent Wallis’ Glorious San Gimignano, which is anticipated to achieve between $3,000 and $5,000.
Kent Wallis, Glorious San Gimignano, oil on canvas, 48 x 36”. Estimate: $3/5,000
“We often have participants comment on how fun our auctions are, driven by the standing-room only attendees and our engaging, funny auctioneer who conducts the sale,” says Larsen. “We have some clients that get here the moment the doors open and stay all day, and other bidders just float in when their lots are being offered.”
Interested bidders can bid via telephone, absentee or attend the auction live in the room. The auction is streamed live online on two different platforms including LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable. Visit the auction webiste to view lots and register to bid. —
Spring Larsen Art Auction
April 20, 2024, 10 a.m. MST
Larsen Gallery
3705 N. Bishop Lane, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 941-0900; www.larsenartauction.com
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