The Week in Prints 20th - 26th May 2024

Following a cyber attack last week, Christie's have now cancelled and evening sale of 20th and 21st century art in London in June. The London auction house will not host another marquee sale now until October. This inability to execute the sale with a compelling collection indicates a shift in the market's dynamics. There has been a notable increase in interest for alternative luxury assets such as archival fashion, handbags, jewellery, wine, whisky, and watches. These categories are continuing to gain traction among collection collectors and investors, broadening the market's scope beyond traditional fine art. Despite the cancellation, Christie's London is poised to host Vivienne Westwood: The Personal Collection from 14-28 June. Following a series of successful celebrity sales, like that of Freddie Mercury, Elton John, and Pattie Boyd, this collection of haute couture from the late designer's personal wardrobe is set to become the most recent white glove celebrity sale.

Photo London concluded last Sunday, showcasing the best in photography past and present at Somerset House. As the UK’s premier photography fair approaches its 10-year anniversary next year, the medium shows great signs of growth and development in the wider market. We had the opportunity to meet with Iconic Images, who represent some of the country’s most esteemed - and indeed iconic - photographers. Conversations with Charles Moriarty, known for his photography on Amy Winehouse’s Frank album, and Greg Brennan, a press photographer who has captured the likes of Queen Elizabeth II, Kate Moss, and Barack Obama, highlighted the enduring appeal and evolving nature of photography in the art world.

A comprehensive David Hockney catalogue raisonné is officially in the works, documenting more than 35,000 works created over 20 years. Scheduled for online release in 2026, this extensive compilation will feature essays by various artists and writers, produced in collaboration with the David Hockney Foundation and David Hockney Inc. This significant undertaking could indicate that the ageing British icon is beginning to slow down his prolific artistic practice. Collectors and enthusiasts eagerly await this definitive record of Hockney’s illustrious career.

The estate of Jean-Michel Basquiat has unveiled a new print titled Odours Of Punt, in collaboration with Pace. Stamped and signed by the artist’s sisters, Lisane Basquiat and Jeanine Heriveaux, who serve as administrators of Basquiat’s Estate, this screenprint is based on an artwork created in 1983. Measuring 42 x 84 inches and produced in an edition of 60, the print is priced at $85,000. The release is expected to perform well in secondary sales, following the successful track record of Basquiat’s other estate-signed prints. This new edition continues to reinforce the enduring legacy and demand for Basquiat's work in the contemporary art market.

Stay tuned for more insights and updates from the prints and editions market next week.