US-based Ethiopian artist Julie Mehretu Sets New Contemporary African art-world record for the highest-selling artwork by an African-born artist in an auction. Her abstract painting named “Walkers With the Dawn and Morning” fetched a staggering $10.7 million at Sotheby’s in New York recently. The artwork, created with ink and acrylic on canvas, draws its name from a Langston Hughes poem from the 1920s. Julie Mehretu, aged 52, was born in Ethiopia and moved to the US in 1977 due to political unrest.
She has emerged as a prominent figure in the rapidly growing contemporary African art scene. Mehretu painted “Walkers With the Dawn and Morning” as part of an exhibition in response to the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, particularly focusing on its impact on the city of New Orleans.
During the auction, two bidders vied for the artwork, steadily increasing the price. Though it initially sold for $9.5 million, additional fees pushed the final price to a groundbreaking $10.7 million. The artwork showcased a blend of Julie Mehretu’s unique artistic style, incorporating architectural drawings, dynamic lines, and flowing calligraphy. It was featured in the 2008 exhibition at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Julie Mehretu Artistic Journey
Born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 1970, Mehretu relocated to the U.S. with her family in 1977. She’s become a significant name in the fast-growing contemporary African art world. Her groundbreaking sale highlights the growing talent she has in abstract art.
Julie Mehretu’s Unique Artistic Attributes
Mehretu’s journey from Ethiopia’s capital to a leading role in contemporary African art in the US is remarkable for her unique style. She uses multiple layers to create abstract art, taking cues from graffiti, city maps, and comic book designs.
Her work, connected to movements like futurism and constructivism, often features bursts and distinct lines, resulting in explosive and intricate pieces that have gained her acclaim in the art world.
One of her notable works, the 80-foot-wide mural titled “Mural,” commissioned by Goldman Sachs in 2010, showcases Mehretu’s talent and is visible from the street. Additionally, her painting “Untitled 1” was a significant success, fetching over $1 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2010.
Mehretu’s innovative and layered approach to abstraction solidifies her as a pivotal figure in the evolution of contemporary African art. Underscoring her continued influence in the art scene.
Artistic Attributes of Julie Mehretu
- Using multiple layers to develop abstract art
- Obtaining cues from graffiti
- Cues from city maps
- Clues from comic book designs
- Innovative and layered approach to abstraction.
- These attributes have propelled Julie Mehretu to set New Contemporary African Art-World Record
Masterpiece Unveiled: Where Poetry Meets Abstract Expressionism
‘Walkers With the Dawn and Morning’—a detailed blend of ink and acrylic on canvas—echoes Mehretu’s artistic depth. Inspired by a 1920s Langston Hughes poem, this artwork was initially part of an exhibition reflecting on Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath and its impact on New Orleans. Its successful sale signifies a shift in art enthusiasts’ tastes toward a more discerning phase.
What the Future Holds for Contemporary African Art
Mehretu’s groundbreaking art sale reveals a bright future for contemporary African art. The growing fascination and broader market for abstract creations signify a transformation in the art sphere. It also elevates African artists to deserving status. Beyond her auction triumph, Mehretu’s selection to design BMW’s upcoming Art Car for the 24 Hours of Le Mans race underscores her soaring global recognition. More so emphasising the expanding horizons for African artistic expression.
As Julie Mehretu Sets New Contemporary African Art-World Record, hope this inspires other African artists to show their talent to the world.