Julie Mehretu’s Record-Breaking $9.32 Million Sale and the Ascendance of African Art
Julie Mehretu, an African-born artist, achieved an extraordinary milestone recently by selling a painting for $9.32 million at Sotheby’s Hong Kong. This spectacular accomplishment not only sets a new record for an African-born artist but also underscores the growing prominence of contemporary African art on the global stage.
Julie Mehretu, originally from Ethiopia and later relocating to the United States as a child, has had a remarkable artistic journey. Her artistic rise began with her first six-figure sale at the Lehman Brothers’ bankruptcy auction in 2010. However, her recent sale of “Untitled,” a piece from 2001, has catapulted her into the annals of art history. “Untitled” is a testament to Mehretu’s unique artistic vision, characterized by large-scale abstractions that delve into the complexities of recent global events. Her work defies categorization, inviting viewers to explore the intricacies of contemporary issues.
The astonishing price of $9.32 million for “Untitled” reflects a broader surge of interest in contemporary African art. In 2023 alone, the collective investment in artworks by African-born artists reached an impressive $63 million, according to ArtPrice. Remarkably, women artists have been at the forefront of this movement, with Nigerian American artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby and South African artist Irma Stern consistently commanding top positions in sales.
The surge of interest in African art is closely linked to the thriving African art scene. In recent years, West African countries, particularly Nigeria and Ghana, have witnessed significant growth in the sector. The establishment of new commercial art spaces, such as Gallery 1957 in Accra, Ghana, and Galerie Cécile Fakhoury in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, has played a crucial role in this expansion.
These platforms have created a “visibility moment” for generations of African artists, as described by Touria El Glaoui, the founding director of the 1–54 Contemporary African Art Fair. They provide opportunities for artists to exhibit their work to a global audience, helping African art gain international recognition.
The rise of interest in contemporary African art has also led to a burgeoning collector base. Collectors, both local and international, are increasingly recognizing the value of African art and are enthusiastic about investing in this vibrant and dynamic sector.
The success of Julie Mehretu and other African-born artists at high-profile auctions serves as a testament to the evolving landscape of contemporary African art. It marks a transformative moment where African art is no longer a niche market but a central and influential force within the global art community. The era of African art’s emergence has begun, and its artists are poised to continue captivating the world with their extraordinary talents.
