Since its inception in 2020, Black Art Auction has established itself as a premier auction house dedicated exclusively to the sale of African American art. With its mission to increase awareness of African American artists and their often-overlooked contributions to art history, Black Art Auction has become a trusted platform for art collectors, museums, and scholars alike. As the organization prepares for its 21st sale, the Fall Auction, excitement is building among art enthusiasts and collectors. Scheduled for Saturday, September 14th, at 11:00 AM CST, this auction is set to be a monumental event, featuring over 250 lots of artwork by some of the most renowned Black artists in history.

A Journey Rooted in Passion and Dedication

According to their website, Black Art Auction’s journey began during a unique time—the height of the global pandemic in May 2020. Despite the challenges, the auction house launched its inaugural sale with a single bidder, demonstrating its commitment to providing a platform for African American art. Four years later, the company has not only survived but thrived. The Fall Auction has shown dedication and tenacity, as their audience has grown from one bidder to thousands, with collectors from across the world participating in these sales.

One of the most significant achievements of Black Art Auction is its success in selling artwork to prominent institutions. In their most recent auction, works were sold to four different museums, a significant milestone that reflects the increasing recognition of African American art in the broader art world. These sales help preserve and showcase the legacies of these artists for future generations. However, as Black Art Auction acknowledges, this success is a collective effort. The auction house credits its dedicated community of buyers, sellers, scholars, and art lovers for helping to make these monumental sales possible.

The Fall Auction: A Treasure Trove of African American Art

The upcoming Fall Auction promises to be an extraordinary event, showcasing works from some of the most influential Black artists in history. The catalog, now live for bidding, includes pieces from household names such as Betye Saar, Jacob Lawrence, Romare Bearden, Faith Ringgold, and Beauford Delaney, among others. Collectors and art enthusiasts will find pieces at various price points, ensuring that there is something for everyone, whether they are seasoned collectors or first-time buyers looking to acquire a piece of history.

For those unfamiliar with the process, Black Art Auction offers multiple ways to participate in the bidding. Buyers can bid through their platform, mobile app, or third-party sites such as LiveAuctioneers and Invaluable. For those who prefer a more personal approach, telephone bidding is also available. The auction catalog is live, allowing potential buyers to browse and place their bids ahead of time.

A Closer Look at the Featured Artists

Betye Saar, one of the featured artists in the Fall Auction, is known for her mixed-media assemblages that explore themes of race, spirituality, and feminism. Saar’s work is celebrated for its power to confront stereotypes and inspire reflection, making her pieces highly sought after by collectors. Another featured artist, Jacob Lawrence, is renowned for his portrayal of African American life, particularly through his iconic Migration Series, which depicts the Great Migration of African Americans from the rural South to the urban North.

Romare Bearden, another titan of African American art, is celebrated for his vibrant collages that depict Black life in America. His work often draws on jazz and blues music, blending these cultural elements with African American history and folklore. Faith Ringgold, known for her narrative quilts, addresses social and political issues such as race, gender, and civil rights. Her work continues to resonate with contemporary audiences for its bold storytelling and unapologetic exploration of the Black experience.

Beauford Delaney, an abstract expressionist painter, is known for his use of vibrant color and light to convey emotion and spirituality. His works, which range from portraits to abstract compositions, offer a window into the inner life of a Black artist who defied the conventions of his time.

These artists, along with many others in the Fall Auction, have made indelible contributions to American art and culture. Collectors at the auction will have the unique opportunity to acquire pieces from these historic figures, preserving their legacies while celebrating their artistry.

Art for Every Collector

One of the most striking aspects of Black Art Auction is its commitment to making African American art accessible to a wide range of collectors. While the auction house has broken records, selling pieces for over a million dollars, it also offers works at more affordable price points. This inclusivity is central to the auction house’s mission to ensure that the work of African American artists is appreciated and collected by a diverse audience.

In addition to high-value pieces, the Fall Auction will feature more affordable works in the hundreds of dollars, giving newer collectors an entry point into the world of African American art. Black Art Auction has always maintained a focus on providing opportunities for collectors at all levels, and this auction is no different. Whether you’re looking for a museum-quality piece or a more modest addition to your collection, the Fall Auction has something to offer.

Supporting Scholarly Research and Private Sales

Beyond the excitement of the live auctions, Black Art Auction is deeply committed to supporting the scholarly study of African American art. The auction house regularly publishes essays and monographs on individual artists and works, with contributions from internationally recognized scholars. These scholarly resources are available for free on their website, ensuring that the history and significance of African American artists are accessible to all.

For collectors interested in acquiring art outside of the auction format, Black Art Auction also offers a private sales division. This division provides individual works from artists, as well as selections from artist estates. Black Art Auction is expanding its reach through online platforms like Artsy, and its Squarespace store features graphic works by Sam Middleton, further broadening its offerings to collectors worldwide.

A Community Effort

The Fall Auction is a celebration of the artists, collectors, and scholars who have helped shape Black Art Auction into what it is today. From bidder #1 to a global audience of thousands, the auction house has flourished thanks to the collective efforts of everyone involved. The passion for preserving and celebrating African American art continues to drive the organization forward, and the Fall Auction is yet another step in that journey.

With more than 250 lots, an incredible roster of artists, and a community of passionate supporters, this auction is set to be an event to remember. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of African American art, the Fall Auction offers a unique opportunity to celebrate and participate in the rich legacy of Black artists.

Cover photo: Clark, Claude. “Soldering.” Black Art Auction