Swoonarie © Frank Stella 1994
Frank Stella
237 works
Key Takeaways
Frank Stella's distinctive printed works maintain strong market appeal, with some series experiencing an average annual increase of 13%, and iconic prints exceeding £50,000 at auction. His geometric series, such as Sinjerli Variations, consistently achieve high prices, with complete sets selling for over £60,000. The current record for a single Stella print is held by The Fountain (1992), which sold for £233,039 in 2019, showcasing the value placed on his complex, multi-technique works. Stella's innovative use of materials, including specially developed papers and multiple printing methods, means condition assessment and authentication are crucial in determining a print's value. Timing sales with major retrospectives can optimise returns.
Frank Stella is a name paradoxically associated with both Minimalism and vibrant, bold abstraction. His work is simultaneously colourful, energetic, and restrained. While renowned for his paintings, Stella's printmaking practice holds equal importance. His prints embody the same rigorous exploration of form, colour, and space seen in his paintings, often pushing the boundaries of what was technically possible in printmaking. This guide will provide sellers with essential insights into the market for Stella's prints, offering information on valuation, authentication, and effective selling strategies.
Stella's printmaking career began in the 1960s, paralleling his painting practice. His early prints, much like his paintings, featured simple geometric shapes and flat colours. As his career progressed, Stella's prints became increasingly complex, incorporating multiple printing techniques and often blurring the line between print and relief sculpture. His collaborations with master printers, particularly Kenneth Tyler at Gemini G.E.L., resulted in some of the most innovative and technically ambitious prints of the 20th century.
Stella's print series often correspond to his painting series, allowing collectors to acquire more accessible versions of his monumental works. Notable print series include the Sinjerli Variations, Exotic Birds, and Circuits, each showcasing Stella's evolving style and technical mastery.
How Much Do Frank Stella Prints Sell For?
Frank Stella’s prints hold a kind of universal appeal, making them consistently popular with collectors and securing a strong market. Among post-war American art, Stella’s work performs well, with some print series experiencing an average annual growth rate of 13%. Individual prints typically fetch between £5,000 and £30,000, depending on the series, with popular prints selling for over £50,000.
Stella's Sinjerli Variations series, created in the 1980s, translates his protractor paintings into the print medium. These lithographs consistently achieve high prices at auction. In 2016 and 2017, complete sets of six Sinjerli Variation prints sold for over £60,000. A similar series of five prints, River of Ponds (1971), made using repetitions of overlapping angles and lines, sold for an impressive £128,748 in 2023. At more than twice its high estimate, this sale proved the increasing popularity of Stella’s works, particularly his ordered, geometric prints.
Another popular print is Double Gray Scramble (1973), a screenprint that has appeared at auction multiple times in the past decade. In 2018, a low edition number that had been frequently exhibited around the US sold for £202,835, almost four times its high estimate, and the record price for a Stella print at the time.
The current record sale of an individual Stella print, however, is not held by one of his geometric abstractions, but rather one of his much larger, more chaotic and energetic abstract prints: The Fountain (1992). What makes this piece unique is the complexity of its creation. Stella combined woodcut, etching, aquatint, relief, screenprinting, and drypoint, in a collage of hand-coloured handmade paper that is over two metres tall and seven metres wide. Layering so many different types of printing is incredibly rare, and the difficulty of achieving such a print at such a scale meant the original edition consisted of only eight prints. The Fountain sold for £233,039 in 2019, smashing the record previously held by Double Gray Scramble (1973) and almost doubling its sale value in 2000.
Other prints from around the time of The Fountain’s creation, which also often incorporate multiple techniques and have a sculptural quality, can command significant prices. Works from the Circuits series (1982-1984), such as Pergusa Three (1983) and Talladega Three II (1982), for example, which feature intricate, overlapping forms created through a combination of etching, engraving, and relief printing, have sold for upwards of £50,000 for individual prints. Stella sustained the complexity of his work in the decade that followed. A print of Stapling Down And Cutting Up #2 (1992), which combined offset lithography with intaglio, sold for £111,189 in 2018, proving that works from every stage in Stella’s career are prized by collectors.
How Do You Authenticate a Frank Stella Print?
Authentication requires a combination of provenance, technical analysis, and comparison with official catalogues and exhibition history. Establishing provenance involves tracing the print's history of ownership and exhibition using documentation such as certificates of authenticity, gallery receipts, or correspondence related to the print. The legitimacy of these documents plays the most vital part in proving the authenticity of your print.
A crucial resource for authenticating Stella prints is the catalogue raisonné compiled by Richard Axsom. This comprehensive catalogue documents over 300 print editions produced between 1967 and 1982, providing detailed publication information on each print, including dimensions, edition sizes, and printing techniques. Being able to compare your print to the entries in this catalogue will be incredibly valuable to potential buyers, or any auction house or broker you work with.
The complex printing techniques used in many of Stella's prints mean that some understanding of the composition of your print will be useful. For prints that incorporate lithography, screenprinting, relief printing, etching, and more, ensure you learn how to identify any tell-tale signs; alternatively, consult with an appraiser who can.
The paper used for Stella's prints is also an important consideration. He often worked with high-quality, handmade papers, such as Fuji-Kozo. Some papers were even developed specifically for his more experimental prints. Identifying these papers and understanding their characteristics can provide additional evidence of authenticity.
Edition and Signature
Frank Stella's approach to signing and numbering his prints evolved over his career, reflecting the changing nature of his printmaking practice. In his earlier works, Stella typically signed and numbered the prints in pencil on the front, usually in the lower right margin. The signature is often in cursive, accompanied by the date and the edition number as a fraction (e.g., 15/100).
As Stella's prints became more complex and sculptural, his method of signing adapted. Some later works are signed on the reverse, particularly those where the front of the print extends to the edges of the paper. In some cases, particularly for very large or three-dimensional prints, Stella has signed on a separate certificate of authenticity.
Stella's print editions varied in size throughout his career. Earlier, more easily reproduced prints might have editions of 100 or more, while later, more complex works often had smaller editions, sometimes as few as eight. Generally, prints that belong to smaller editions will command higher prices; however, Stella’s most iconic works are consistently popular regardless of edition size. Artist's proofs, typically marked “AP,” are even more highly sought after by collectors.
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Has Your Frank Stella Print Been Kept in Good Condition?
The condition of a Frank Stella print is a critical factor in determining its value; prints with more faithfully preserved colours, details, and signatures will appeal more to collectors and have a higher estimated value. Stella's innovative use of materials and techniques means that his prints can be particularly susceptible to certain types of damage, making proper care and conservation essential.
When assessing the condition of a Stella print, start by examining the paper for any signs of damage or ageing. Look for discolouration, foxing, or acid burn, particularly around the edges. Stella often used unique, handmade, or hand-coloured papers, including specially developed papers for his more experimental prints. It may not be possible, therefore, to predict the effects of certain factors on these papers over time.
Colour retention is particularly important for Stella's prints, given their bold, saturated hues and high contrast. Any fading or colour shift can significantly impact the print's visual impact and value. All printing inks can be susceptible to fading if exposed to prolonged light, whether natural or artificial.
For Stella's relief prints, it's important to check for any damage to the raised surfaces or embossing. These three-dimensional aspects are integral to the work and should be intact and well-defined. Similarly, Stella's use of multiple printing techniques in a single work can create areas of varying thickness and texture. Examine these areas carefully for any cracking, flaking, or separation of layers. This is particularly important for prints from series like Circuits or Imaginary Places, where the layering of techniques is a key artistic feature. Many of Stella's prints from the 1960s, including the Black Series and Purple Series, incorporate metallic inks, powders, or foils. These materials can be prone to oxidation or tarnishing, making it important to check for any discolouration or dulling.
Combatting the risks of different types of damage comes down to proper handling, storage, and display. Ideally, prints should be kept in acid-free portfolios, away from direct sunlight and fluctuating humidity. Any handling should be minimised, and only done while wearing clean cotton gloves. If framed, UV-protective glass and acid-free matting are essential to prevent light damage and acid migration. For prints with relief elements or unusual shapes, custom framing or storage solutions may be necessary to protect the work's three-dimensional aspects.
For advice on how to get started with condition assessment of your Frank Stella print, contact MyArtBroker.
When is the Best Time to Sell My Frank Stella Print?
Determining the optimal time to sell your Frank Stella print requires careful consideration of market trends, cultural events, and the broader context of post-war American art. While Stella's market has shown consistent strength over the years, when certain events happen or market patterns emerge, it can be a sign that sellers should begin the sales process.
Major exhibitions or retrospectives of Stella's work often generate increased interest and media coverage, stirring up demand from collectors and driving up prices. For example, the comprehensive retrospective at the Whitney Museum of American Art in 2015-16 sparked renewed international attention on Stella's work across all media. A few months later, a full set of Sinjerli Variations prints sold in New York for £61,902, the highest price achieved by this collection to date.
Stella’s passing in May 2024 has influenced the market for his work. A handful of his original paintings sold for seven-figure amounts in the weeks immediately following. Ifafa I (1964), for example, sold for £10,355,400 at Sotheby’s New York. In addition to following significant events and anniversaries related to Frank Stella specifically, keep an eye on broader trends in the art market, particularly those related to post-war American art and Minimalism. Surges of interest in these areas could signify greater collector interest in Stella’s work.
The simplest way of staying up-to-date with Stella’s print performance is by monitoring sales results and value trajectory reports from major auction houses - which are freely available online. For instance, if a surge of interest in Stella's Exotic Birds series is highlighted in a trajectory report, it might be an opportune time to sell works from that group.
MyArtBroker offers advanced art tech tools to help you determine the optimal time to sell. Our MyPortfolio service features an AI-powered value indicator that provides real-time valuations of individual prints based on both public and private sales data. Combined with our complimentary valuations, we can help ensure your print achieves maximum value by selling at the perfect moment.
Where Can I Sell My Frank Stella Print?
Selling a Frank Stella Via a Broker
Art brokers specialising in post-war American prints can provide a more personalised approach to selling a Frank Stella print. These experts often maintain networks of collectors interested in minimalism and geometric abstraction, facilitating private sales with a level of confidentiality not available through public auctions. Brokers offer the advantage of discretion, potentially quicker sales, and personalised advice throughout the transaction. This route can be particularly effective for prints that might appeal to specific collectors, such as those focused on the intersection of painting and printmaking in post-war American art. Working with a broker typically involves lower fees compared to auction houses, generally ranging from 10% to 20%. While you might miss out on the competitive bidding of auctions, the targeted approach of a knowledgeable broker can be beneficial, especially for mid-range Stella prints. When choosing a broker, look for those with a proven track record in handling Stella's work and a deep understanding of the market for post-war American prints. Their expertise can be invaluable in positioning your print effectively and reaching the right collectors.
Selling a Frank Stella Via Auction House
Prestigious auction houses like Christie's, Sotheby's, and Phillips regularly feature Frank Stella's prints in their post-war and contemporary art sales. These institutions offer a global platform, attracting collectors from around the world who are passionate about post-war American art. The competitive atmosphere of live auctions can drive prices upward, particularly for rare or historically significant Stella prints. Auction houses excel at marketing, producing high-quality catalogues and organising preview events that generate buzz around the artworks. Their ability to contextualise Stella's work within the broader spectrum of post-war American art can enhance its appeal to collectors. However, this route comes with considerations. Substantial fees, often surpassing 25% of the sale price, are standard. There's also a risk of your print not meeting its reserve price, potentially affecting its future market value. Auction schedules are inflexible, which may result in a considerable wait before your print is offered for sale. For high-value Stella prints, particularly rare early works or complete portfolios from series like Sinjerli Variations or Exotic Birds, the auction route can be highly effective. However, ensure you understand the terms of consignment and any associated costs before proceeding.
To learn more, read our guide to Auction v Private Sale in the Art Market.
Selling a Frank Stella Via Online Marketplace
Online art marketplaces have grown in popularity, offering a platform for sellers to reach a global audience of art enthusiasts and collectors. These digital venues can be effective for more accessible Stella prints, providing an opportunity for quick sales with lower fees compared to traditional channels. Online platforms allow you to control the listing details and pricing, with tools for showcasing high-quality images and detailed descriptions of the work. However, selling high-value artworks online comes with challenges. There's a risk of undervaluing the work due to platform limitations, and the lack of expert curation can make it difficult for exceptional pieces to stand out. Authentication concerns are also more pronounced in the online space. For high-value or rare Stella works, online marketplaces should be approached with caution. If considering this route, opt for specialised platforms that focus on fine art prints and have robust authentication processes in place. These platforms are more likely to attract serious collectors and provide the necessary security measures for high-value transactions.
Why Sell Your Frank Stella with MyArtBroker?
A Dedicated Broker
MyArtBroker offers a distinctive service connecting clients with their dedicated personal broker, ensuring a secure transaction through our online digital platform. Our specialists excel at sourcing direct buyers for consigned prints via our live trading floor, where users within our extensive network can express interest in specific prints and multiples by particular artists, whether they intend to sell, buy, or simply enquire about a specific print. Our team is approachable, passionate, and consistently provides updates on the art market and artists. We guide sellers through a seamless transaction process, establishing a fair market valuation based on realistic sale prices and offering free advice on the optimal timing for selling, leveraging our extensive knowledge of the art market.
Minimise Risk
At MyArtBroker, we prioritise transparency and security in every art sale. Our stringent due diligence process ensures the authentication and verification of artwork provenance, drawing upon our in-house expertise and collaborating with professional external contacts when needed. This approach effectively mitigates the risk of trading counterfeit or stolen art pieces. Additionally, we minimise the risks associated with public sales. While public auctions may seem appealing, unsold prints can harm an artist's market. Private sales eliminate this risk and enable quicker liquidity release for your artwork compared to adhering to strict auction schedules dictating when your work can be offered for sale.
0% Seller's Fees, 100% of the Time
Our team of specialists offers tailored services to procure rare and special edition prints, catering to both seasoned collectors and newcomers to the market. As part of our standard practice, we provide complimentary valuations and charge zero seller's fees, setting us apart from other private brokers and traditional auction houses. By minimising overhead costs, we allocate resources towards digital innovation and targeted marketing strategies within our network and house magazine.
When it comes to selling artwork, achieving the best price hinges on accessing a niche market with an established collector community. If you're looking to sell a print, turning to a specialist in the print market, like MyArtBroker, yields superior results compared to approaching an auction house, which caters to broader categories of artwork.
Our Network
Through our live trading floor we empower our network of collectors, fundamentally reshaping the art investment and trading landscape in the digital era. Offering real time market data and insights gleaned from worldwide collectors, we establish value based on convenience, accessibility, and the exceptional level of transparency and security provided to over tens of thousands of users.
Read our cohesive report to navigate the art market as a seller: A Guide to Selling Prints in the Current Market.
Frank Stella Collection Management with MyPortfolio
In addition to our live trading floor, MyArtBroker's MyPortfolio serves as a collection management system, empowering collectors to curate and oversee their prints and editions collection. This feature grants users access to our print market database, uniquely tied to our proprietary algorithm, SingularityX. This algorithm scans and analyses both public auction and private sales data to determine real time valuations of individual print works, factoring in various aspects such as condition, colour, and other factors affecting value.
Read What Powers MyArtBroker's Technology? In Conversation With Stuart Jamieson, Financial Quant to learn more about our algorithm.
Emerging art tech tools are vital in navigating the current, and evolving, digital art market landscape. For instance, by adding Frank Stella prints from our website to the MyPortfolio dashboard, users gain insight into unique sale opportunities and observe market performance and fluctuations as they happen, streamlining the sales process effortlessly. Our pioneering technology has revolutionised art portfolio management, making it more accessible and equipping users with data-driven insights for informed decisions. MyArtBroker harnesses cutting-edge technology driven by data, coupled with a team of industry experts, to deliver an exceptional experience. Our professionals work closely with clients, utilising the MyPortfolio dashboard, to provide personalised guidance for creating a profitable art collection. By merging technology and expertise, we are committed to offering unparalleled curation and customer service.
Frank Stella
237 works
