As the curtain draws near on Strauss & Co’s current online sale, View/Re/View, art enthusiasts and collectors are treated to a captivating journey through a century of Southern African art. Closing on January 15, 2024, this month-long online auction showcases over 150 lots, spanning the rich tapestry of Southern African artistic expression from the Pre-War era to the Contemporary. One of the standout features of this sale is the representation of Southern African abstraction, an often overlooked and under-appreciated genre within the art market. Senior Art Specialist and Head of Strauss & Co’s Johannesburg art department, Alastair Meredith, emphasizes the significance of this collection, stating, “South Africa has a wonderful history of abstract art-making, and this sale offers several notable abstract works.”
From the avant-garde approach of Christo Coetzee, influenced by the Japanese Gutai Group, to contemporary artist Marcus Neustetter, currently based in Vienna, Austria, the auction provides a diverse array of abstract pieces. Noteworthy works include Kenneth Bakker’s Composition with Jasper, Christo Coetzee’s Red and Black Tubular Forms, and Lionel Abrams’ Abstract Compositions, showcasing the evolution of abstract art in Southern Africa.
The auction also features a compelling selection of ceramic works, highlighting the versatility and creativity of Southern African artists. Juliette Armstrong’s pregnancy apron Ingcayi, influenced by the ceramic traditions of KwaZulu-Natal, stands out, as does the rare ceramic piece by Dorothy Kay titled Flora. A particularly unique offering is Robert Hodgins’ painted plate, Skullpiece No.5, providing collectors with a glimpse into the lesser-known subgenre of Hodgins’ artistic output.
Walter Meyer’s Surreal Space Composition adds an intriguing element to the sale, deviating from his usual Cape landscape works to experiment with gestural, expressionist, and surrealist elements. Another notable piece is the large-scale abstract work by Thakor Patel, reflecting his journey from India to Zimbabwe and eventually the United States, as well as his inclusion in Zeitz MOCAA’s exhibition of contemporary painting from Zimbabwe, Five Bhobh.
Armando Baldinelli’s Abstract Composition, a striking mixed-media on-board work, further enriches the collection. Born in Italy, Baldinelli immigrated to South Africa, leaving his artistic imprint on public buildings such as Johannesburg’s Hyde Park shopping centre and O.R. Tambo International Airport through large mosaic commissions.
For those eager to participate, the auction closes in 1-minute intervals starting at 2 pm on Monday, January 15, 2024. To explore, bid, or purchase these remarkable pieces of Southern African art, visit www.straussart.co.za. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the art scene, View/Re/View promises a unique opportunity to engage with the diverse and vibrant history of Southern African artistic expression.
Featured Image Source: Kenneth Bakker
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