ART
Venerable auctioneer broadens horizons as art trends evolve
As history keeps hammering home, tastes change — even in the rarefied world of art auctions. Stephan Welz & Co, which has been selling art and antiques on the auction room floor for nearly 50 years, is putting a toe into the primary art market. "We need to broaden our horizons," says Nicolette Barnard, the company’s new exhibitions co-ordinator. "We’re trying to reach a new audience; people who may be interested in starting to collect. In SA there’s really such a small percentage of collectors. And at most auctions, it’s 19th and 20th century work [on sale]; there’s not a lot of contemporary art." The auctioneer’s first foray into territory usually claimed by galleries and dealers is a curated three-day exhibition called City Lights … and Shadows, to be held at the Killarney Country Club in September. It will showcase work by established names such as Sam Nhlengethwa and Roger Ballen, and newcomers such as Mozambican artist Lizette Chirrime. Efforts will be made to make the experien...
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