April
TAKING FLIGHT: Selected Works from the Phoenix Collection
With much excitement, Aspire Art announces its presence and the first-ever landmark art auction in the Cape Winelands at Boschendal Estate.
For this momentous occasion, Aspire is honoured to present TAKING FLIGHT: Selected Works from the Phoenix Collection. This single-owner live auction marks the culmination of nearly 15 years of passionate curation and collecting, where each artwork has been meticulously selected and acquired with love and care. Sourced from leading galleries and dealers internationally and locally, as well as prominent auctions, this private collection stands as a testament to a thoughtful collector's dedication and discerning eye.
At the heart of the Phoenix Collection lies a treasure trove of important 20th-Century and Contemporary South African art. This legacy sale offers discerning collectors the exclusive opportunity to acquire rare and significant works from a special selection of 30 premier artworks from the collection. Spanning more than 70 illustrious years of art history within the country, with a particular emphasis on artists working in the Cape region, these exquisite pieces offer a rare glimpse into the rich tapestry of artistic innovation and cultural heritage.
TAKING FLIGHT: Selected Works from the Phoenix Collection will be on view in the majestic Manor House at the beautiful Boschendal Estate in the Franschhoek Winelands from 29 March with the live auction taking place on Saturday, 20 April at 6 pm.
Sale number: BSDApril24Location: Boschendal
Lots: 30
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Contemporary Art
Ends: 16th Apr, 2024 18:00
Sale number: TO April 24
Lots: 80
Discover and bid on an exciting collection of contemporary artworks by leading and emerging artists in a variety of mediums.
With this auction, we are excited to introduce ASPIRE COLLECT, our new interest-free payment plan, designed to make art acquisition more accessible and enjoyable by allowing you to spread the cost of your art purchases over 3 monthly instalments, with no additional interest or fees.
Look for the 
logo for artworks available on this payment plan (the ASPIRE COLLECT payment plan is only available where the logo is displayed).
March
February
December
IN PRIVATE: Artworks from the Estate Late Andrew da Conceicao
Ends: 5th Dec, 2023 19:00
Sale number: TO Nov23 De Con
Lots: 33
Aspire Art is honoured to offer a selection of artworks from the estate of the late Andrew da Conceicao.
Andrew da Conceicao was well-loved and deeply respected in the art community in South Africa and beyond. He was known for his warmth and generosity, big smile and huge hugs.
A founding director of Stevenson, Andrew was influential in identifying and nurturing young artists and genuinely interested in emerging artists and initiatives. Enthusiastically following the progress of many young artists, Andrew always provided support to those he had worked with and let them know their work was appreciated. He approached his work with deep care and dedication and held a great reverence for artists’ skill, imagination and craftmanship.
This intimate auction brings 33 artworks – collected in private – to a wider collecting audience, to embrace, enjoy and celebrate a gallerist who made a remarkable contribution to South African art.
November
IN PRIVATE: Artworks from the Estate Late Andrew da Conceicao
Ends: 5th Dec, 2023 19:00
Sale number: TO Nov23 De Con
Lots: 33
Aspire Art is honoured to offer a selection of artworks from the estate of the late Andrew da Conceicao.
Andrew da Conceicao was well-loved and deeply respected in the art community in South Africa and beyond. He was known for his warmth and generosity, big smile and huge hugs.
A founding director of Stevenson, Andrew was influential in identifying and nurturing young artists and genuinely interested in emerging artists and initiatives. Enthusiastically following the progress of many young artists, Andrew always provided support to those he had worked with and let them know their work was appreciated. He approached his work with deep care and dedication and held a great reverence for artists’ skill, imagination and craftmanship.
This intimate auction brings 33 artworks – collected in private – to a wider collecting audience, to embrace, enjoy and celebrate a gallerist who made a remarkable contribution to South African art.
October
September
August
Photographs + Editions
Ends: 1st Aug, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO July (II) 23
Lots: 102
Aspire Art presents another specially themed Timed-Online auction, PHOTOGRAPHS + EDITIONS. The sale includes editioned works by well-loved South African favourites, Walter Battiss, Deborah Bell, Robert Hodgins, William Kentridge, Nelson Makamo, Karel Nel, Helen Sebidi and Diane Victor, amongst others.
Notable photographic highlights are three historical images from the 1960s and 70s of Muhammad Ali and Nelson Mandela by the acclaimed photographer, Alf Kumalo. Also featured are photographic works by Adam Broomberg & Oliver Chanarin and Daniel Naudé and a selection of striking images documenting southern African rural and urban landscapes, by photographers including Gopolang Ledwaba, Struan Robertson and Graeme Williams.
July
Photographs + Editions
Ends: 1st Aug, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO July (II) 23
Lots: 102
Aspire Art presents another specially themed Timed-Online auction, PHOTOGRAPHS + EDITIONS. The sale includes editioned works by well-loved South African favourites, Walter Battiss, Deborah Bell, Robert Hodgins, William Kentridge, Nelson Makamo, Karel Nel, Helen Sebidi and Diane Victor, amongst others.
Notable photographic highlights are three historical images from the 1960s and 70s of Muhammad Ali and Nelson Mandela by the acclaimed photographer, Alf Kumalo. Also featured are photographic works by Adam Broomberg & Oliver Chanarin and Daniel Naudé and a selection of striking images documenting southern African rural and urban landscapes, by photographers including Gopolang Ledwaba, Struan Robertson and Graeme Williams.
IMPRESSIONS: Works from the Marilyn Martin Collection
Ends: 4th Jul, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO MM June 23
Lots: 31
Aspire Art is honoured to offer art lovers a rare opportunity to acquire works of art from the private collection of the late Marilyn Martin.
Marilyn Martin played an extraordinary role in the art and cultural life of South Africa. After eleven years as the Director of the South African National Gallery from 1990 until 2001 she was appointed Director of Art Collections for Iziko Museums of Cape Town. Following her retirement from Iziko Museums in 2008 she worked as an independent writer, curator, lecturer.
The unique collection features a number of works reflecting the warm and personal relationships Marilyn Martin held with many South African artists. A number of works were gifted to her while numerous others include personal dedications and the sale offers a unique opportunity to acquire significant works from a special collection.
20th/21st Century Classics
Ends: 4th Jul, 2023 19:00
Sale number: TO June 23
Lots: 128
Aspire Art brings a new sale of established South African masters to market. Traditional favourites include artists J.H Pierneef, Adriaan Boshoff, Maud Sumner and Anton Van Wouw, while the sale boasts well-loved modern artists such as Walter Battiss, Christo Coetzee, Peter Clarke, Dumile Feni and Cecil Skotnes. A notable selection of South African abstract art also highlights artists Lionel Abrams, Kenneth Bakker, George Boys, Fred Schimmel and Larry Scully amongst others.
Of particular interest is the inclusion of works from the collections of two important patrons of South African art, the late Desmond Fisher and Dr Matthys Strydom. A special selection of small and intimate drawings by Dumile Feni purchased directly from the artist by Fisher highlights Feni’s exceptional skill in his drawings which were central to his artistic practice. Also on offer is a selection of artworks including editioned works by Gregoire Boonzaier, Francois Krige, Alexander Podlashuc and Cecil Skotnes from the collection Dr Strydom – a passionate art collector and director of the Strydom Gallery in George.
June
IMPRESSIONS: Works from the Marilyn Martin Collection
Ends: 4th Jul, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO MM June 23
Lots: 31
Aspire Art is honoured to offer art lovers a rare opportunity to acquire works of art from the private collection of the late Marilyn Martin.
Marilyn Martin played an extraordinary role in the art and cultural life of South Africa. After eleven years as the Director of the South African National Gallery from 1990 until 2001 she was appointed Director of Art Collections for Iziko Museums of Cape Town. Following her retirement from Iziko Museums in 2008 she worked as an independent writer, curator, lecturer.
The unique collection features a number of works reflecting the warm and personal relationships Marilyn Martin held with many South African artists. A number of works were gifted to her while numerous others include personal dedications and the sale offers a unique opportunity to acquire significant works from a special collection.
20th/21st Century Classics
Ends: 4th Jul, 2023 19:00
Sale number: TO June 23
Lots: 128
Aspire Art brings a new sale of established South African masters to market. Traditional favourites include artists J.H Pierneef, Adriaan Boshoff, Maud Sumner and Anton Van Wouw, while the sale boasts well-loved modern artists such as Walter Battiss, Christo Coetzee, Peter Clarke, Dumile Feni and Cecil Skotnes. A notable selection of South African abstract art also highlights artists Lionel Abrams, Kenneth Bakker, George Boys, Fred Schimmel and Larry Scully amongst others.
Of particular interest is the inclusion of works from the collections of two important patrons of South African art, the late Desmond Fisher and Dr Matthys Strydom. A special selection of small and intimate drawings by Dumile Feni purchased directly from the artist by Fisher highlights Feni’s exceptional skill in his drawings which were central to his artistic practice. Also on offer is a selection of artworks including editioned works by Gregoire Boonzaier, Francois Krige, Alexander Podlashuc and Cecil Skotnes from the collection Dr Strydom – a passionate art collector and director of the Strydom Gallery in George.
20th Century & Contemporary Art
Sale number: Jhb June 23
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 58
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Aspire Art will impress collectors with this focused, boutique-style auction in Johannesburg. A feature of the carefully compiled collection is a strong focus on contemporary African artists. Collectors of contemporary works from Africa will be spoilt for choice with works by Thierry Oussou (Benin), Richard Mudariki (Zimbabwe) and Banele Khoza (Swaziland). Local contemporary favourites include Nandipha Mntambo, Cinga Samson and Gerhard Marx amongst others. Contemporary photographers are also well represented with works by Aida Muluneh (Ethiopia), Kudzanai Chiurai (Zimbabwe) and South African international superstar, Zanele Muholi, while important historical images are included with works of Winnie Mandela by Alf Kumalo and a portfolio of twelve works – chronicling the hardships of apartheid – from Ernest Cole’s seminal House of Bondage (1967).
A highlight of the sale is South African modernist Alexis Preller’s, Adam (1972) – a recently discovered, never before seen, work forming part of Preller’s series of Adamic-themed works from the late 1960s and early 1970s. Other significant modern pieces include a unique terrazzo sculpture by Edoardo Villa, still lifes by Maggie Laubser and works by Cecil Skotnes, Walter Battiss and J.H Pierneef.
The sale concludes with a special section of William Kentridge editioned prints led by the impressive Blue Head (1993 – 1998).
May
Selects: Contemporary Art from the M&C Saatchi Abel Collection
Ends: 16th May, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO May 23
Lots: 36
Aspire Art is excited to present Selects, an exhibition and Timed-Online Auction of contemporary artworks from the notable M&C Saatchi Abel Collection.
Selects draws attention to the talented artists that caught the agency’s Executive Chairman, Mike Abel’s eye and who have gone on to become important figures on the contemporary art scene. Included are works by Mikhael Subotzky, Mohau Modisakeng, Cyrus Kabiru, Ian Grose, Ruby Swinney, 2021 Standard Bank Young Artist Award winner Buhle Siwani and Saatchi Global Art for Change award winner Samuel Nnorom among others.
The exhibition opens on Thursday, 4 May at 6pm at Aspire’s gallery in Cape Town as part of First Thursdays.
April
Contemporary Art
Ends: 18th Apr, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO April 23
Lots: 120
Aspire Art invites you to delve into exciting and fresh works, bold colours and current themes in the Timed-Online auction CONTEMPORARY ART. Including carefully selected, local and international pieces, collectors will enjoy unique perspectives and mediums from some of the most popular artists in the current contemporary art market including William Kentridge, Diane Victor, Zander Blom, Georgina Gratrix, Jake Aikman, Simphiwe Ndzube, Ndikhumbule Ngqinambi, Mongezi Ncaphayi, Sam Nhlengethwa, Sepideh Mehreban, Michael MacGarry, Colbert Mashile, and more!
March
20th Century & Contemporary Art
Sale number: CT Mar 23
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 77
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
Kickstarting the 2023 program Aspire Art are delighted to present their first Live sale, 20th Century & Contemporary Art in March. The sale has become a highly anticipated event in the Cape Town auction calendar, showcasing and recognising works by truly exceptional artists from Southern Africa.
Contemporary highlights include seminal works by William Kentridge, Robert Hodgins, Sue Williamson, Johannes Phokela, Zander Blom, Athi-Patra Ruga, Dan Halter and Georgina Gratrix amongst others. International superstars include Pascale Marthine Tayou and Francisco Vidal. Photographic works feature prominently as a special section and include limited editioned prints by celebrated documentary photographers Alf Kumalo and David Goldblatt alongside incredible photographic works by artists like Mary Sibande, Ayana Jackson, Candice Breitz and the award-winning Mikhael Subotzky.
Leading the sale is a group of important and rare works by South African modern masters, most significantly a selection of expressive drawings by Dumile Feni and paintings by social realist George Pemba. The modern collection is complimented by a landscape painted by J.H. Pierneef and a beautifully rendered gouache by Irma Stern from 1951.
Preview: 10 to15 March
Mon-Fri: 8.30-4.30, Saturday: 10-2 or by appointment
EDITIONS
Ends: 1st Mar, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO Feb 23
Lots: 100
Aspire Art presents a specially themed Timed-Online auction, EDITIONS. A fresh range of modern and contemporary art highlighting editioned works, the sale showcases well-loved South African artists including Penny Siopis, Diane Victor, Peter Clarke, Sam Nhlengethwa, Robert Hodgins, Walter Battiss and William Kentridge. Also included are special William Kentridge publications and a delightful collection of plush toys by Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami.
February
EDITIONS
Ends: 1st Mar, 2023 18:00
Sale number: TO Feb 23
Lots: 100
Aspire Art presents a specially themed Timed-Online auction, EDITIONS. A fresh range of modern and contemporary art highlighting editioned works, the sale showcases well-loved South African artists including Penny Siopis, Diane Victor, Peter Clarke, Sam Nhlengethwa, Robert Hodgins, Walter Battiss and William Kentridge. Also included are special William Kentridge publications and a delightful collection of plush toys by Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami.
November
20th Century & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 30 Nov 22
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 82
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
The focused sale brings to market 84 highly collectable lots, with the diverse collection showcasing highlights by modern masters including magnificent still-life compositions and a Zanzibari boat scene by Irma Stern, an Alexis Preller abstract and an early JH Pierneef landscape. Also included is a significant collection of celebrated contemporary artists: Mustafa Maluka, David Koloane, Walter Oltmann, Norman Catherine, Willem Boshoff, a rare self-portrait oil by Robert Hodgins as well as a large bronze sculpture by Zanele Muholi, the first of this new body of work to be offered on auction.
The sale features a special selection of artworks by William Kentridge. One of the most celebrated and influential living artists today, his major retrospective exhibition is currently on show at the Royal Academy of Arts in London. This is one of the most unique and high-quality Kentridge collections to come to market. Spanning his career and showcasing the many mediums in which he works, the sale features signature charcoal drawings alongside collages, tapestry, prints and sculptures.
ARCHIVE: A Collection of William Kentridge Books, Including Rare Books
Ends: 1st Nov, 2022 18:00
Sale number: TO Books Oct 22
Location: Online
Lots: 29
Aspire Art presents a unique timed-online sale dedicated entirely to William Kentridge books. Including books by and about the much-celebrated artist the collection includes highly collectable, rare publications and special publications including original artworks.
FULL BLOOM: Spring 22 Collection
Ends: 1st Nov, 2022 18:30
Sale number: TO Oct 22
Location: Online
Lots: 197
Collectors can browse new contemporary artists from Africa in New Frontiers (lots 1-72) or turn to old favourites in Traditional Classics (lots 73-102). They can explore, The Shape of Things in sculptural works (lots 103-119) and investigate abstract form in works True to Form (lots 104-137). Editioned works are highlighted in works Set in Print (lots 135-194) and photography features in Snapshots (195-200).
October
ARCHIVE: A Collection of William Kentridge Books, Including Rare Books
Ends: 1st Nov, 2022 18:00
Sale number: TO Books Oct 22
Location: Online
Lots: 29
Aspire Art presents a unique timed-online sale dedicated entirely to William Kentridge books. Including books by and about the much-celebrated artist the collection includes highly collectable, rare publications and special publications including original artworks.
FULL BLOOM: Spring 22 Collection
Ends: 1st Nov, 2022 18:30
Sale number: TO Oct 22
Location: Online
Lots: 197
Collectors can browse new contemporary artists from Africa in New Frontiers (lots 1-72) or turn to old favourites in Traditional Classics (lots 73-102). They can explore, The Shape of Things in sculptural works (lots 103-119) and investigate abstract form in works True to Form (lots 104-137). Editioned works are highlighted in works Set in Print (lots 135-194) and photography features in Snapshots (195-200).
September
20th Century & Contemporary Art
Sale number: CT 14 Sep 22
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 81
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
Aspire Art will impress collectors with this focused, boutique-style auction. Including 81 carefully selected lots the sale boasts impressive examples by many of South Africa’s most celebrated artists. A fine selection of William Kentridge works, including two original drawings, Eduardo Villa sculptures, painting by Robert Hodgins and Walter Battiss and a wonderful early Penny Siopis drawing are on offer.
Also featured are two special sections – Black Modernism and Photography. Aspire has firmly cemented itself as a champion of both these collecting segments and collectors will be spoilt for choice with a rare drawing by Dumile Feni as well as works by other modernists including Gerard Sekoto, George Pemba and Lucas Sithole and photographs by David Goldblatt, Mohau Modisakeng and Simphiwe Ndzube amongst others.
July
P5'22: Painting, Paper, Photography, Patina & Print
Ends: 26th Jul, 2022 18:00
Sale number: TO July 22
Location: Online
Lots: 213
Focussing on the materiality of art, Aspire Art presents a thematic collection that brings together a range of historic, modern and contemporary artworks in various media, artistic processes and subject matter to emphasise the creative value that art holds.
With over 200 works in the collection, the auction gives new and established collectors a unique opportunity to access extraordinary artistic concepts in Painting (lots 1-54), Paper (lots 55-97), Photography (lots 98-104), Patina or sculpture (lots 105-115) and Print (lots 116-211).
June
The Present Future: A Private Collection of African & International Contemporary Art (Online)
Ends: 23rd Jun, 2022 17:00
Sale number: Present Future ONL
Location: Online
Lots: 38
Aspire Art is delighted to have been entrusted with a Private Collection of contemporary African and international art. The exciting single-owner sale is divided into two parts – a Live and Online collection – giving bidders two separate opportunities to participate.
Running concurrently to the Live auction the Online collection includes an exciting selection of sculptures, paintings, works on paper, prints and photography and features artists such as Bastiaan van Stenis, Francois van Reenen, Georgina Gratrix and Paul Du Toit.
The collection will be on display at Aspire Art, Cape Town from 9-22 June.
Current & Curated: The Art Gazette Collection
Ends: 23rd Jun, 2022 18:00
Sale number: Art Gazette Online
Location: Online
Lots: 184
Aspire Art is delighted to present Current & Curated: The Art Gazette Collection, an exciting large-scale Timed-Online auction of fresh and cutting-edge contemporary art. Representing 85 established and emerging artists from South Africa, Africa and abroad, the collection features over 180 works of art, offering a unique opportunity for new and seasoned collectors to view and acquire original and innovative works.
Founded in 2019, Art Gazette is a curated platform that supports artists by acquiring work up-front and in series for their inventory. A local industry first, the auction is presented in partnership with Art Gazette in a collaborative effort to promote and sustain contemporary artists and art production, while showcasing the works to a broad collecting audience.
May
VOLUMES: Timed Online Book Auction
Ends: 26th May, 2022 18:00
Sale number: TO Books May 22
Location: Online
Lots: 118
For the Love of Books
Aspire Art proudly presents VOLUMES, a Timed Online book auction taking place from 19-26 May. The special sale focuses on art books and books by and about artist and covers everything from rare and collectible ephemera to reference works and artist’s monographs.
April
SHADES: Autumn 22
Ends: 26th Apr, 2022 18:00
Sale number: TO April 22
Location: Online
Lots: 189
Welcoming the change of colours of the new season, Aspire Art presents a strong selection of exceptional and innovative works by local art world favourites for easy collecting.
With nearly 200 lots, the collection spotlights prevalent topics artists, and audiences, engage in. Most notably, the stylistic influences of abstraction (lots 1-28). Other highlighted categories include the exploration of places and people (lots 29-142), the meaning of words (lots 143-168) found in text-based pieces, the objects (lots 169-175) of sculptural works and the things (176-188) chosen for still life studies. Also included is a range of signed William Kentridge posters (189-195) for those interested in special art memorabilia.
March
Modern and Contemporary Art | Cape Town
Sale number: CT 16 Mar 22
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 109
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
The collection of 111 works by 74 artists boasts a selection of highly collectable modern and contemporary art-historical treasures. Rare and important pieces by artists including William Kentridge, Marlene Dumas and Robert Hodgins present collectors with a unique opportunity to add significant pieces to their collections. Also on offer are 4 fantastic oil paintings by South African modern master George Pemba and an impressive body of sculptural work, including artists Sydney Kumalo, Edoardo Villa, Bruce Arnott and David Brown.
December
Summer Collection: Modern & Contemporary Art and Books
Ends: 13th Dec, 2021 18:00
Sale number: TO 6-13 Dec 21
Location: Online
Lots: 248
Aspire brings a large-scale and vibrant collection to auction in the final sale of 2021. 248 lots, including paintings, ceramics, sculpture, multiples and editions and an impressive collection of books, make for easy collecting in the Online only sale.
Leading modern artists include Walter Battiss, Peter Clarke, Dumile Feni and Johannes Meintjes. Contemporary voices include Zander Blom, Conrad Botes, Norman Catherine, Georgina Gratrix, Lucy Jane Turpin and Alexia Vogel and photography highlights showcase Mikhael Subotzky, Nandipha Mntambo and Berni Searle.
November
Modern & Contemporary Art | Johannesburg
Sale number: JHB 30 Nov 21
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 76
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
A focused collection of top historical, modern and contemporary artworks, this boutique-style sale presents impressive examples of South Africa’s best-known artists at auction. Included is a wonderful oil on canvas still-life by Irma Stern painted in 1936, an exquisite equestrian painting by Tretchikoff, 4 early watercolours by George Pemba, a monumental Villa from 1976 and 6 superb lots by William Kentridge. Also on offer are impressive contemporary works by Kate Gottgens, Phillemon Hlungwani, Wim Botha and Banele Khoza, amongst others.
Art, Life and Love: The Collection of Nwabisa Xayiya (Online Auction)
Sale number: Xayiya ONLINE Oct 21
Location: Online
Lots: 204
We are honoured to present Art, Life and Love: The Collection of Nwabisa Xayiya, a single owner auction showcasing the cultivated taste and style of Nwabisa Xayiya.
The full auction collection will be divided into two parts, giving bidders two separate opportunities to participate in the auction.
The remainder of the collection is included in this Online-only Auction opening on Wednesday 20 October and closing on Monday 1 November
October
Art, Life and Love: The Collection of Nwabisa Xayiya (Live Auction)
Sale number: Xayiya LIVE Oct 21
Location: Houghton, Johannesburg
Lots: 95
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
This October, 2021, we are honoured to present Art, Life and Love: The Collection of Nwabisa Xayiya, a single owner auction showcasing the cultivated taste and style of Nwabisa Xayiya.
The auction offers examples by great modernists as well as exciting contemporary pieces. Notable is a selection of work by George Pemba. There is also a set of impressive urban scenes and portraits by Gerard Sekoto, a rarely seen Alexis Preller, a glorious Robert Hodgins, and varied examples of Dumile Feni’s work. Within the contemporary offering, there are outstanding works by Blessing Ngobeni, Sam Nhlengethwa, William Kentridge, Teresa Firmino, Athi-Patra Ruga, Kudzanai Chiurai, Nelson Makamo, Owusu-Ankomah and Nicholas Hlobo.
September
Modern & Contemporary Art
Lot: 49 to 132 - 30th Sep, 2021 19:00
Sale number: CT 29-30 Sep 21
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 132
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
Aspire Art Auctions brings a significant and insightfully compiled selection of top-quality modern and contemporary art to auction in Cape Town. The sale stars exceptional works by many of South Africa’s big signatures, including, William Kentridge, Robert Hodgins, Penny Siopis, Edoardo Villa, Sydney Kumalo and J.H Pierneef, amongst others. Also featured is an exciting collection of contemporary artists from elsewhere in Africa – Patrick Bongoy and Zemba Luzamba from the Congo, Moustapha Baïdi Oumarou from Cameroon and Gerald Chukwuma from Nigeria.
August
Winter Collection: Modern & Contemporary Art and Books
Ends: 31st Aug, 2021 19:00
Sale number: TO 31 Aug 21
Location: Online
Lots: 302
Aspire Art Auctions hosted our Winter Collection auction in August– a timed-online auction featuring a unique collection of modern and contemporary art, ceramics, collectables and books.
The sale ran from Tuesday 24–31 August and differentiated itself from previous timed-online auctions with its wide range of contemporary art alongside more historic works, multiples and editions, photography, sculpture, ceramics and an impressive selection of signed art books.
July
Aspire X PLP | African Photography Auction 2021
Ends: 27th Jul, 2021 19:00
Sale number: PLP 27 Jul 21
Location: Online
Lots: 127
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
The sale, presented in partnership with the Photography Legacy Project (PLP) was the largest collection of African photography ever to come to auction.
Notable inclusions were works by Zimbabwean photographer Tamary Kudita and young award-winning woman photographer, Lee-Ann Olwage who collaborated with Belinda Qaqamba Kafassie. Emerging photographers like Kongo Astronauts collective (DRC) and the documentary imagery of Etinosa Yvonne (Nigeria) added depth and diversity, while the older generation of established practitioners like David Goldblatt, Alf Kumalo and Ernest Cole also featured.
April
Autumn Collection
Sale number: TO 4 Apr 21 1
Location: Online
Lots: 307
This premier, large-scale, timed, online-only sale presented a wide range of contemporary art alongside more historic works, multiples and editions, photography, sculpture, ceramics and an impressive selection of signed art books for easy collecting.
Leading artists represented in the auction included Marlene Dumas, Jane Alexander and Walter Oltmann together with contemporary voices like Zanele Muholi, Nandipha Mntambo, Athi-Patra Ruga, Blessing Ngobeni, Gerhard Marx, Nicholas Hlobo and Nelson Makamo. Modern stalwarts included John Mohl and Edoardo Villa amongst others. Pieter Hugo, Mikhael Subotzky and Roger Ballen led the photography selection while new media works by Wayne Barker, Ed Young, Usha Seejarim and Turiya Magadlela.
Editions: International Prints & Multiples
Sale number: TO 4 Apr 21 2
Location: Online
Lots: 84
A first to the local market, Editions: International Prints & Multiples was a special curated auction featuring editioned works by 20th century art legends like Alexander Calder, Antoni Tàpies, Henry Moore, Salvador Dalí, Robert Motherwell, James Rosenquist, Ernest Trova, Richard Smith and Victor Vasarely. It presented a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire works by sought-after, international artists.
March
Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: CT 4 Mar 21
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 109
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
Aspire Art Auctions’ Cape Town sale proved that the market for African and international art continues to thrive despite the pandemic.
The top lot by value was Irma Stern’s Dahlias and fruit, one of the most outstanding paintings from her late period, which achieved an impressive R5,234,800. Marlene Dumas scored a sensational hit when her early painting, Score, sold for R3,414,000, and stellar results were also achieved for celebrated artists; William Kentridge, George Pemba, Gerard Sekoto and Peter Clarke, amongst others, with world records at auction set for contemporary artists Turiya Magadlela and Gerhard Marx.
November
Aspire X PLP | African Photography Auction 2020
Sale number: PLP 5 Nov 20
Location: Online
Lots: 117
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
A collection of pan-African works, straddling the terrain between historical and contemporary photography, were auctioned to support the digitisation of African photographic legacies by the Photography Legacy Project (PLP). Bidders participated from across Europe, the USA and UK, Asia, Australia and Africa – a testament to Aspire’s increasing global reach and collectors’ enthusiasm for African photography.
The auction included photographic luminaries such as David Goldblatt, Alf Kumalo, G.R. Naidoo, Ranjith Kally and Ian Berry, as well as more contemporary internationally acclaimed photographers like Guy Tillim, Jo Ractliffe, Syowia Kyambi and Mikhael Subotzky. The lead lot, a portfolio of 12 silver gelatin prints from the legendary photographer Ernest Cole’s seminal 1967 book House of Bondage sold for an astounding R569,000 – a new world auction record.
October
Summer Collection
Sale number: TO 15 Oct 20
Location: Online
Lots: 243
The online-only sale offed a fresh range of modern and contemporary artworks for easy collecting.
An exciting highlight was the uniquely curated selection of works by the much-celebrated artist Walter Battiss spanning his prolific oeuvre. Included was a charming oil painting of a market scene, a variety of rare drawings and watercolours and a series of serigraphs from the 1970s onwards. Also of significance were two iconic photographs by the legendary German-born South African photographer Jürgen Schadeberg. In addition, the collection featured artworks by many other leading and sought-after artists including Kudzanai Chiurai, Peter Clarke, Marlene Dumas, Dumile Feni and David Goldblatt.
September
Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 3 Sep 20
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 168
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
Catalogue: View e-Catalogue
This Spring, Aspire Art Auctions broke new ground with a fresh, yet considered selection of artworks that is demographically more representative and reflects the spirit of current times. With a strong focus on South Africa, the sale also proudly represented artists from 10 African countries (Benin, DRC, Ghana, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Sudan, Togo, Uganda and Zimbabwe) and international artists from Europe, the UK and USA.
A great highlight was Edoardo Villa’s monumental steel sculpture titled Traverse from 1957 which achieved R4,893,400 – an auction record for the artist. Other exceptional offerings included works by Gerard Sekoto, George Pemba, Peter Clarke and Nicholas Hlobo.
June
March
February
Aspire X PIASA | Modern & Contemporary African Art
Sale number: CT 14 Feb 20
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 198
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Aspire Art Auctions partnered with Paris-based house Piasa, to introduce an Africa-focused auction presenting some of the best examples of modern and contemporary art produced on this continent. This was the first time an African and European auction house partnered to present a sale of African art, in Africa, for a global audience.
The sale included 139 artists representing 27 countries from Africa and the diaspora and spotlighted key collecting segments from 20th century modernism to contemporary production and photography. The lead-lot, Marlene Dumas’ Oktober 1973 achieved a stellar R7,055,600 well above its high estimate of R3-5 million. Also on offer were some of the most in-demand African artists including Chéri Samba, Aboudia Abdoulaye Diarrassouba, Gareth Nyandoro, Mustafa Maluka and William Kentridge.
November
October
P5: Currencies in Painting, Patina, Photography, Paper and Pages
Sale number: O&L 10 Oct 19
Location: Online
Lots: 261
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Aspire Art Auctions’ P5: Currencies in Painting, Patina, Photography, Paper and Pages ONLINE&LIVE Curated Gallery Auction presented a rich collection of historic, modern and contemporary artworks ranging in media, process and subject matter. The collection emphasised the wealth that art possesses and gave collectors an opportunity to access new artistic currencies.
The line-up included a stellar selection of established and upcoming artists, including Zander Blom, David Goldblatt, Blessing Ngobeni, Lucas Sithole, William Kentridge.
September
July
20th Century Pioneers and Rising Contemporaries
Sale number: O&L 30 Jul 19
Location: Online
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In ONLINE&LIVE | Curated Gallery Auctions, Aspire Art Auctions launched a new platform, integrating their LIVE catalogue auctions and TIMED ONLINE auctions. Clients were able to place bids on the online platform, these were assimilated into the live auction as existing commission (absentee) bids, and the sale itself was then conducted as a live auction at the close of the timed online bid intake.
With its abiding focus on quality over quantity, Aspire has developed a reputation for selectivity and discernment. This inaugural auction comprised of two curated sessions, 20th Century Pioneers and Rising Contemporaries.
June
Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 2 Jun 19
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 97
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Aspire Art Auctions presented a focused and insightfully compiled selection of top-quality modern and contemporary art in their latest sale in Johannesburg.
The company’s commitment to innovation led to a bold and signature move in this sale, which featured a special section dedicated to photography. The medium has been traditionally strong among South African artists but has been without a proper focus in the local auction market. The ground-breaking segment featured a wide range of the most important South African photographers, including Pieter Hugo, David Goldblatt, Guy Tillim, and Zanele Muholi. In addition, the sale starred a number of the market’s big signatures – Alexis Preller J.H. Pierneef, Gerard Sekoto, and Maggie Laubser and top contemporary artists including, Diane Victor, and Wim Botha.
April
March
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: CT 3 Mar 19
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 131
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Aspire Art Auctions set a new bar for the market in its Autumn 19 Auction in Cape Town, with a South African auction record for its cover lot.
An early work, by international star Marlene Dumas, Love Lost (1973/4) achieved R7 283 200, more than doubling its pre-sale estimate of R3 000 000. Further successful sales included a range of paintings by Alexis Preller from across his career, and new world records for work by Jane Alexander, Simphiwe Ndzube, and Moshekwa Langa. These results further establish Aspire’s growing reputation as the discerning auction house for handling contemporary South African art.
February
Focus on Photography, Prints & Multiples
Sale number: TO 13 Feb 19
Location: Online
Lots: 238
Aspire Art Auctions’ first timed-online auction of 2019 was comprised of 238 lots. The sale included an excellent selection of prints and multiples and had a focus on photography. It showcased a stellar selection of contemporary South African artists including, Hasan & Husain Essop, Nandipha Mntambo, Athi-Patra Ruga, Michael MacGarry, and Mikhael Subotzky, amongst others.
November
Holidays: Art, Books & Collectables
Sale number: TO 20 Nov 18
Location: Online
Lots: 692
Aspire Art Auctions’ final timed-online sale for 2018 included 694 lots and featured books, prints & multiples, works on paper, paintings, and ceramics, spanning several decades.
October
Historic, Modern and Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 28 Oct 18
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 157
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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Aspire Art Auctions brought a significant double-header of top lot leads to this sale.
Stellar results were achieved for internationally prominent William Kentridge and Alexis Preller, one of South Africa’s most respected and collectable modern artists. Collectors were attracted to Kentridge’s remarkable, Drawing from Stereoscope (Double page, Soho in two rooms) (1999), which sold for R6 600 400, while Preller’s Adam (1972), sold for a world record at R9 104 000. Modern offerings also included works by Peter Clarke, Kenneth Bakker, and Douglas Portway, while the contemporary segment included Moshekwa Langa, Penny Siopis, Simon Stone, Clive van den Berg, and Georgina Gratrix, amongst others.
September
Contemporary Art & Books
Sale number: TO 4 Sep 18
Location: Online
Lots: 315
This timed-online sale included contemporary South African art and rare international and local art books for easy collecting.
The auction achieved strong sales, spearheaded by the success of photographic works by David Goldblatt. An exceptionally rare hand-printed photograph by the iconic and recently-deceased Goldblatt, Carvings for sale on William Nicol Drive, Bryanston, 3 July 1999 sold for R82 075, almost five times its high estimate.
June
Fine Art: Old & New
Sale number: TO 26 Jun 18
Location: Online
Lots: 166
As the pioneer of themed online auctions in South Africa, Aspire Art Auctions were excited to present their third focused sale of 2018, Timed Online | Fine Art: Old & New.
The sale comprised 166 lots of both local and international works of art. Prints & multiples, works on paper, paintings, and sculpture spanning several decades were on offer at a variety of price points.
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 17 Jun 18
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 140
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In a slow and unresponsive market, amid tight economic conditions generally in South Africa, Aspire Art Auctions made impressive statements and set several world records.
Two rare works by Irma Stern achieved sparkling results. The top lot by value: Still life with magnolias, apples and bowl (1949), fetched R6 828 000, the highest price achieved for a work by Stern for over a year. Another significant still life, Still life with chrysanthemums in the artist’s handmade ceramic jug, from 1950, sold for R3 414 000.
A significant, world record was achieved for Peter Clarke – R1 479 400 for Lazy Day, an acrylic and gouache on paper from 1975, and records were also set for contemporary artists, Zander Blom and Paul Stopforth.
May
Books, Art & Collectables
Sale number: TO 15 May 18
Location: Online
Lots: 516
The Book, Art and Collectables sale offered art books at highly competitive reserves, as well as fine art and objets d’art.
This special sale was focused on art books and books about art. With over 500 lots on offer, covering everything from rare and collectible ephemera to reference works and artist’s monographs. The book sale was remarkably successful, achieving an 86% sell through rate, well above industry averages.
March
Fine Art with a Focus on Prints & Multiples
Sale number: TO 28 Mar 18
Location: Online
Lots: 251
Aspire Art Auctions’ Timed Online auction opened for bidding on 28 March and ran until 4 April. The sale had a special focus on works on paper, prints and multiples. On offer were works by major modern and contemporary artists, from Robert Hodgins to Nelson Makamo, all in accessible and easy-to-hang editions.
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: CT 25 Mar 18
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 167
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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Aspire Art Auctions brought a unique offering to their second auction in the Cape allowing buyers to add quality and rarity to their collections.
Headlining the success of the auction was as a rare intaglio by Alexis Preller, Gold Angel (Arêté), which sold for R4 638 400. The piece was part of Preller’s last body of work shown at the Goodman Gallery in 1975, and took its place alongside the sale of his mid-period work, the exquisite small study Still life with Vase and Carved Head, which sold for R811 720. Other auction highlights included work by contemporary artists Robert Hodgins, Athi-Patra Ruga, Zander Blom, and Penny Siopis and sculpture by Deborah Bell, Willem Boshoff, Wim Botha, and Amadlozi alumnus Sydney Kumalo.
February
Contents of Deodar House Live Auction
Sale number: Deodar 11 Feb 18
Location: Deodar House, Johannesburg
Lots: 106
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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Aspire Art Auctions were delighted to be entrusted with the sale of the contents of Deodar House, a resplendent home with immaculate gardens in the peaceful and leafy Johannesburg suburb of Illovo. Its owners had amassed an eclectic, impeccably curated, and valuable collection of fine art, decorative arts, furniture, jewellery, watches, and wine. The entire contents of the house were brought to auction, with all seller’s proceeds from the sale donated to leukaemia charities.
Contents of Deodar House Timed-Online Auction
Sale number: Deodar TO 5 Feb 18
Location: Online
Lots: 189
The Contents of Deodar House dedicated Timed Online Auction was a 189-lot sale that ran concurrently to the live auction. The auction comprised of fine art, decorative arts, furniture, household items, ceramics, and wine.
November
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 12 Nov 17
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 129
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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Aspire’s final auction for 2017 ended the year on a high note with a collection of top historical, modern and contemporary artworks.
A number of superb historic paintings came to auction, dating back to the late nineteenth century. Among them were works by Hugo Naudé, Anton Van Wouw, and Dorothy Kay. A fine collection of mid-twentieth century modern work by South Africa’s best-known artists at auction including Edoardo Villa, Maggie Laubser, Sydney Kumalo and Irma Stern were also on offer. The top lot by value was, however, a contemporary work. A superb drawing by world-renowned South African artist William Kentridge. Drawing from Mine (Soho with coffee plunger and cup) (1991), sold for R5 456 640, a record for a drawing by Kentridge in South Africa.
October
Timed Online 2 2017
Sale number: TO 30 Oct 2017
Location: Online
Lots: 335
Aspire Art Auctions’ second online auction featured over 300 lots including contemporary works; multiples & editions and original works on paper; photography; traditional landscape and genre paintings, craft and decorative arts, and a collection of art books.
Contemporary art dominated sales, as the online platform attracts new buyers on the lookout to build up their collections with interesting and edgy works. Artists including Mary Sibande, Sam Nhlengethwa, Collen Maswanganyi, Kendell Geers, and Andrew Tshabangu, were snapped up. However, away from the brisk sales of contemporary work, more traditional artists including, Adriaan Boshoff, Errol Boyley, and Maggie Laubser also fared well.
August
Timed Online 1 2017
Sale number: TO 4 Sep 17
Location: Online
Lots: 224
Aspire Art Auctions’ first Timed Online sale presented a range of affordable fine art selected to appeal to both new and seasoned collectors. The auction featured over 200 lots of historic, modern, and contemporary works including a selection of highly collectible works by Walter Battiss. These ranged from a very early watercolour of a forest scene to the characteristic and vibrant colour screenprints for which the artist is well known.
July
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 17 Jul 17
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 184
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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Aspire Art Auctions’ second Johannesburg sale offered a selection of some of the best works produced by local and international artists available on the local market. Offerings included Cameroonian-born, Belgium-based, Pascale Marthine Tayou, Chilean, Eugenio Dittborn, and South Africans, William Kentridge, Kendell Geers, Louis Maqhubela, Cecil Skotnes, Maggie Laubser, Irma Stern, and Mohau Modisakeng, amongst others.
The sale was led by an international auction record of R1 200 320 achieved for a drawing, Children under Apartheid, by exiled South African artist Dumile Feni, as well as the successful sale of top international lot Golden Mask by renowned performance artist Marina Abramović.
March
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: CT 27 Mar 17
Location: Cape Town
Lots: 182
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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The Inaugural Cape Auction offed a diverse range of top-quality historic, modern and contemporary works. With a focus on critically engaged art and a curated approach, seasoned and new collectors competed to acquire significant works.
Aspire’s commitment to the growth of the art market saw international records broken in recognition of exiled South African artists. Louis Maqhubela’s Exiled King, a definitive, politically motivated work, sold for R341,040 - three times his previous record, and Albert Adams’ Untitled (Four Figures with Pitchforks), his first appearance at auction, sold for R136,416. Top prices were also achieved for established artists including J.H Pierneef, William Kentridge, and Edoardo Villa, and contemporary artwork fared exceptionally with record prices for David Brown, Steven Cohen, Mohau Modisakeng, Moshekwa Langa, and Mikhael Subotzky.
October
Historic, Modern & Contemporary Art
Sale number: JHB 31 Oct 16
Location: Johannesburg
Lots: 121
Catalogue: View the Catalogue
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The line-up for our inaugural sale included an extraordinary selection of art. Works ranged from JH Pierneef’s breathtaking Karoo near Hofmeyer, painted in 1930, to Dan Halter’s 2006, ultraviolet light, Pefection.
Sculptures varied from Edoardo Villa’s acknowledgment of French artist, Aristide Maillol to Wim Botha’s heads that draw on classical and contemporary sources and Ed Young’s cheeky nude self-portrait. Also included were impressive photographs by award-winners, David Goldblatt and Pieter Hugo.
The auction set an impressive standard, with an outstanding sell-through rate of over 75% across 121 lots. The top lot of the sale was Alexis Preller’s exceptional Profile Figures (Mirrored Image), selling for over R7-million. Record sales were achieved for Villa, Goldblatt, and Hugo, amongst others.