Ethiopian-born artist Julie Mehretu has established a new record for the highest sale price of any artwork by an African artist at an auction. Her abstract painting titled Walkers With the Dawn and Morning was sold for an astounding $10.7 million at Sotheby’s in New York. The painting, created as a response to Hurricane Katrina, combines Mehretu’s unique blend of architectural drawing, vibrant colors, and calligraphic strokes. This historic sale not only highlights Mehretu’s immense talent but also signals the growing market interest in contemporary African art, particularly abstract work.
Julie Mehretu, currently based in the United States, was born in Ethiopia and migrated with her family during a time of political unrest in 1977. Over the years, she has emerged as one of the most prominent names in the fast-growing world of contemporary African art. Her previous record of $9.3 million, set just last month, has now been surpassed by the success of Walkers With the Dawn and Morning.
The auction at Sotheby’s witnessed an intense bidding war between two buyers, driving the price higher and higher until it reached the groundbreaking sum of $10.7 million. Once fees were added, the final cost of the artwork solidified its position as the highest-priced piece by an African-born artist.
This achievement not only showcases Julie Mehretu’s exceptional talent but also sheds light on the increasing recognition and appreciation for contemporary African art. The high prices garnered by her artwork demonstrate a shift in the art world, moving beyond the initial interest to a more discerning and appreciative audience.
The sale of Walkers With the Dawn and Morning also reflects the strong interest in abstract art within the contemporary African art scene. Mehretu’s composition, featuring elements of architectural drawing, vividly colored vectors, and fluid calligraphic strokes, perfectly embodies her distinctive style. Sotheby’s describes her work as an amalgamation of various artistic techniques, resulting in captivating and visually striking pieces.
Furthermore, Mehretu’s selection to create BMW’s next Art Car further solidifies her position as a leading figure in contemporary art. Her forthcoming artwork, to be painted onto a BMW vehicle, will be showcased at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans race next year. This collaboration between the automotive industry and the art world signifies the growing recognition of contemporary African art on a global scale.
Julie Mehretu’s achievements in the art world serve as an inspiration to aspiring African artists and highlight the opportunity for African voices to be heard and celebrated within global art circles. This record-breaking sale not only commemorates Mehretu’s remarkable talent but also paves the way for future African artists to receive recognition and acclaim.
As the market for contemporary African art continues to expand, collectors and art enthusiasts should be mindful of its growing significance. This surge in interest provides an opportunity to discover and support talented African artists, contributing to the overall development and representation of African art on a global stage. By investing in contemporary African art, individuals can actively contribute to the cultural diversity and appreciation of artists from underrepresented regions.
In conclusion, Julie Mehretu’s record-breaking sale of Walkers With the Dawn and Morning emphasizes the rising prominence of contemporary African art and its appeal to collectors worldwide. This achievement not only celebrates Mehretu’s artistic brilliance but also highlights the potential for African artists to thrive on a global platform. The growing interest in abstract art within the African art scene indicates a shift in artistic preferences and suggests a more discerning audience. As the market continues to evolve, it presents an opportunity for art enthusiasts and collectors to support and promote the diverse and talented African artists shaping the contemporary art landscape.
