ISSUE 84 FEBRUARY – MARCH 2020
LEONARD
FEBRUARY
The Bushfire Relief Auction Sunday 16 February, 6pm / MELBOURNE The Edward Clark Collection Monday 24 February, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE The Collector's Auction
MARCH
Tuesday 25 February, 6pm / SYDNEY The Bourgeois Taste: Eastern & Western Objects for a New Market Thursday 12 March, 2pm / MELBOURNE Jewels & Timepieces Monday 16 March, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Fine Art
APRIL
Tuesday 17 March, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Modern Design Monday 6 April, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Prints & Multiples Wednesday 8 April, 6pm / MELBOURNE Luxury Wednesday 8 April, 6pm / MELBOURNE Australiana Thursday 30 April, 2pm / MELBOURNE
MAY
auction calendar —
Centum Tuesday 5 May, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE Decorative Arts Monday 18 May, 6.30pm / MELBOURNE The Thursday Auction Furniture & Interiors – 10am Jewellery – 10.30am Art Salon – 11.30am Objects & Collectables – 12pm MELBOURNE
LEFT: A DIAMOND AND SEED PEARL
COVER: NICOLE REED
BROOCH/PENDANT $500 - $700
Spirit of the Bush (detail) Photograph: archival pigment print on paper Mural by Ling and Meggs Guide Price: $1,000
Jewels Auction Monday 16 March
The Bushfire Relief Auction Sunday 16 February
welcome —
This Issue FROM THE DIRECTOR 3 A Victorian Collective Effort FEATURE 4 The Bushfire Relief Auction AUCTIONS 10 Private Collections: The Edward Clark Collection: Revisited
Welcome to the first Leonard of 2020.
12 Fine Art
Like so many, we were devastated as we watched our beautiful country ravaged by bushfires recently. And, like so many, we were inspired to act and so we joined forces with artists, gallerists, collectors and jewellers to present The Bushfire Relief Auction, which will take place on 16 February. The auction includes some incredible donations and we hope you will join with us to raise vital funds to aid relief and recovery.
16 Modern Design: Walking In Memphis
Hear from some of our most significant donors, which include artists Vincent Fantauzzo and David Bromley, the iconic Kozminsky Studio, artists from Fox Galleries and art collectors Sandra Powell and Andrew King who have curated a very special selection of Street Art within the auction, on page 8.
14 Jewels 18 Sydney: The Collector's Auction 20 Luxury 21 Prints – 22 Valuations: Shepparton Art Museum 23 Collector/Collected IN FOCUS 24 Ovation: Arts Centre Melbourne 25 Arts Project Australia: Portraits of Will 26 The 22nd Report JOIN US 26 Connect & Buy with Leonard Joel 29 Contact a Leonard Joel Specialist
We also preview highlights of our first fine auctions of the year, which includes The Edward Clark Collection: Revisited, Fine Art, Jewels, Modern Design and Prints & Luxury. Enjoy!
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— PROFILE —
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— FROM THE DIRECTOR —
A VICTORIAN COLLECTIVE EFFORT A Fundraising Auction
At Leonard Joel, we considered it our first priority for 2020 to in some way meaningfully assist with bushfire relief. In the first week of January this found its form with four emails I received, all within the space of seven days and all from individuals and organisations in Victoria concerned and committed enough to want to help bring a fund-raising auction to life. My sister, Kirsten Albrecht of Kozminsky Studio contacted me on the 3rd of January with promises of jewels and experiences, Sandra Powell and Andrew King advised me on the 5th January that they would gladly curate a monumental collection of Street Art, from street artists wanting to help. On the 7th of January the well-known, Melbourne based artists David Bromley and Vincent Fantauzzo committed two major works of art to the auction project and finally, Michael Fox and his artists of Fox Galleries committed themselves to this relief project. Since then, we have received more incredible donations and what we will be presenting with the extraordinary support and energy of these cornerstone supporters and individuals is The Bushfire Relief Auction on the 16th of February at 6pm, with all proceeds (every cent) - transaction costs and Buyer's Premium will be waived - going to The Victorian Bushfire Appeal. Since our announcement, support for this event has been overwhelming with numerous local, interstate and international businesses unflinchingly providing, free of charge, their services and products to ensure this event provides the perfect art-industry platform to raise, put simply, as much money as possible for communities affected by these unprecedented fires. As I write, so many have committed to bringing this fund-raising auction to life and so, on behalf of our cornerstone supporters, our business supporters
LEFT: VINCENT FANTAUZZO
Once Upon A Time oil on canvas 110 x 170cm Guide Price: $100,000 – 150,000 ABOVE: A Marquise cut diamond
and Leonard Joel, I implore you, your family and your friends to attend this auction, to bid heartily and be part of our collective effort for Victorian bushfire relief. JOHN ALBRECHT
Managing Director / National Head of Collections
ring surrounded by eighteen brilliant cut diamonds Guide Price: $40,000 – 70,000
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— AUCTION —
The Bushfire Relief Auction Leading artists, collectors, gallerists and jewellers donate for a major fundraising auction at Leonard Joel. Auction Sunday 16 February, 6pm Viewing Saturday 15 & Sunday 16 February, 10am-4pm
We are delighted to share that we have joined forces
Leonard Joel Managing Director, John Albrecht said, “like
with prominent figures from Melbourne’s art world and
many others, we feel a sense of deep shock and sorrow at
beyond to host a major fundraising event, The Bushfire
the devastation caused by the bushfires. When we were
Relief Auction. The auction features extraordinary
approached by like-minded artists, collectors and friends
donations from artists, collectors, gallerists and
we decided, collectively, to create a major fundraising
jewellers, and will take place in Melbourne on Sunday
event. I am delighted to provide the resources and
16 February.
infrastructure for what is an incredible collection of
There will be no Buyer's Premium and 100% of proceeds will be donated to The Victorian Bushfire Appeal. —
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donations and contributions. Leonard Joel will waive all transaction costs and all proceeds will be donated to aid vital bushfire recovery projects.”
— AUCTION —
Auction Sun 16 February, 6pm MELBOURNE
Once Upon A Time by Vincent Fantauzzo
BELOW: VINCENT FANTAUZZO
Once Upon A Time oil on canvas 110 x 170cm Guide Price: $100,000 – 150,000
Artist Vincent Fantauzzo has generously donated Once
Once Upon A Time depicts the now extinct Tasmanian
Upon A Time, initially painted for his upcoming exhibition
Tiger as an almost mythical creature, displaced, with its
addressing climate change and extinction. Fantauzzo is
natural environment painted over in white; a poignant
one of Australia’s most celebrated contemporary artists;
reminder that we often do not appreciate beauty until it's
a recipient of the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize,
gone forever.
the Archibald Packing Room Prize, and the Archibald People's Choice Award four times.
Fantauzzo said that “although the bushfire devastation is desperately sad, the response to it is incredibly inspiring.’
He and his wife, Asher Keddie decided that, rather than
And, ‘amongst the sadness there is hope that the next
wait for the exhibition, they wanted to contribute now
generation, who are faced with a realistic fear about the
and donate this piece to auction.
climate, will create change.”
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— AUCTION —
The Journey by David Bromley
Another of this country’s most popular artists, David
in a range of projects from interiors to fashion, exhibitions
Bromley’s paintings are instantly recognisable and adorn
to events via Bromley & Co.
the walls of public and private collectors all over the world. His unique aesthetic, however, extends far beyond the canvas. He and his wife and creative partner, Yuge, bring their passion, imagination and creative vision to life
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David was one of the first to contact Leonard Joel, and he has generously donated his painting, The Journey.
LEFT: DAVID BROMLEY
The Journey acrylic on canvas with gold leaf Guide Price: $24,000
— AUCTION —
Kozminsky Studio
RIGHT: A Marquise cut diamond
ring surrounded by eighteen brilliant cut diamonds Guide Price: $40,000 – 70,000
A Melbourne icon and a much-loved family jeweller, the
Of the ring, Kirsten Albrecht said, “My mother, Jan
name Kozminsky has been synonymous with beauty,
Albrecht gifted me her Marquise Diamond Cluster ring.
individuality, rarity and craftsmanship for over 150
She wanted me to have something beautiful to remember
years. Now, Kozminsky Studio, an elegant atelier in
her by. I have so many beautiful memories of her that I
the heart of the city on Collins Street, offers rare and
hold in my heart, and it’s time to share the love.”
contemporary jewellery collections, design commissions and restorations. An exquisite, Marquise cut diamond ring is among the pieces generously donated by Kozminsky Studio, who have also designed a limited-edition brooch, Renewal, the first of which will also be offered as part of this auction.
“My mum was an extraordinarily generous and caring woman, and I know that she would want to share her love of her birthplace Australia at this challenging time.” And, “we are honoured to join with Leonard Joel and some of Australia’s most generous and creative people to raise much needed funds to help relieve, rebuild, replenish and restore.”
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— AUCTION —
Street Art
Sandra Powell and Andrew King (‘SANDREW’) have been enthusiastic supporters and collectors of Street Art for over a decade. Their personal collection comprises some of the most recognised international and Australian street artists alongside those emerging. The couple are fervent champions of what they describe as “the sleeping giant of undoubtedly the most visible and popular art movement ever.” Almost 100 works of art have been donated by artists including Shepard Fairey, Rone, Swoon, Anthony Lister, D*Face, Adnate, Ron English, Dabs Myla and Hush, with prices ranging from $500 to $20,000, forming an exciting stand-alone section of the auction.
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ABOVE: NICOLE REED
Spirit of the Bush (Detail) Photograph: archival pigment print on paper Mural by Ling and Meggs Guide Price: $1,000
— AUCTION —
Fox Galleries Established in 1998, Melbourne based Fox Galleries presents exhibitions of modern and contemporary art, with a focus on conceptually driven and visually compelling works. Director Michael Fox said, “Watching the ongoing bushfire disaster unfold during the summer holidays, I was moved, and the artists of Fox Galleries were moved, to make whatever contribution we could to assist the affected communities and the injured wildlife populations.” And, “In the last year, Fox Galleries has held several shows addressing climate change, most recently Emilie Heurtevent's 'Nature', which opened two weeks before the New Year's Eve disaster at Mallacoota. Emilie has donated a painting from 'Nature' to the auction. Other donating artists include Mark Schaller, Victor Rubin, Christine Johnson, Esther Erlich, Mark Davis, Chonggang Du, Shannon Smiley, Eddie Botha and Wayne Fogden. I will also be donating artworks from my private collection.”
RIGHT: WAYNE FOGDEN
Farmland #25 (2016) Inkjet print on archival cotton rag paper Guide Price: $5,000
Mendel & Rose Fine Jewellery Rhys created The Waratah Ring in response to the devastating bushfires and especially for inclusion in this auction. An avid Sydney Waratah supporter and a brilliant craftsman, his work is heartfelt and exquisite. The angles of the petals are designed to highlight the diamond cut rubies, pink sapphires and pale pink diamonds, and to reflect the beauty of the blossoming Waratah.
RIGHT:
Guide Price: $6,000 – 8,000
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— AUCTIONS —
PRIVATE COLLECTIONS
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— AUCTIONS —
The Edward Clark Collection, Part II
LEFT: An 18th century Italian
polychrome gateleg table with dropsides, the top painted with a scroll and foliate motif $3,000 – 4,000 TOP RIGHT: An Italian majolica
vase with bacchanalian lug head handles, boldly decorated with a battle scene to one side $1,000 – 2,000 TOP LEFT: An Italian standard lamp
in the style of Angelo Lelii in brass with three enamelled shades $1,000 – 2,000
In April 2019, we celebrated the collection of renowned
The auction comprises only 140 lots, each piece hand-
antiques dealer, Edward Clark. With a strong European
picked by Edward. Some personal favourites in the
flavour, his collection of fine furniture and architectural
auction include lot 62, a charming Italian polychrome
antiques was a farewell to 50 years of trade and launched
table, lot 78, a rare and substantial terracotta bench, lot
Edward’s semi-retirement from the industry. However,
92, a colourful Italian standard lamp and finally lot 132,
after being inspired on a recent European sojourn,
a large majolica urn featuring an impressive battle scene.
Edward approached us to consider a sequel to last year’s offering, and we were of course excited to collaborate with one of Melbourne’s antiques trade luminaries once
Edward’s timeless collection will be offered at auction on Monday 24 February at 6.30pm.
again. The Edward Clark Collection, Part II presents a curated
CHIARA CURCIO / Head of Decorative Arts
selection of stylish Italian lighting, carved and gilded mirrors, complimented by elaborate Louis XIII armchairs Auction
and European polychrome furniture. Edward’s specialty
Mon 24 February, 6.30pm
has always been to select the very best of European
MELBOURNE
design; and to bring together the old and the new in a discerning celebration of taste and style.
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— AUCTIONS —
FINE ART Kenneth Jack
Throughout history, paintings have mirrored the ever-
Kenneth Jack’s work Melbourne encapsulates the boom
changing world, exploring our place in it as these shifts
of post-war Australia in a way that harmonises both
unfold. Artists have produced some of the best visual
urban, industrial and immigrational shifts in the country.
records of history, and have provided valuable insights and interpretations beyond what photos and written material could reveal. While paintings have long been valued for their visual beauty, it’s what we as viewers learn from the subject that makes its way into the history books.
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From an early age, Jack developed an interest in trains and Melbourne’s industrial landscape. His father was a lifetime employee with Victorian railways, which meant that Jack was constantly surrounded, and naturally inspired, by the industrial environment.
— AUCTIONS —
Next Fine Art Auction Tues 17 March, 6.30pm MELBOURNE
KENNETH JACK (1924-2006) Melbourne 1957 oil on composition board triptych 119.5 x 89cm (each side panel) 119.5 x 180cm (centre) $40,000 – 50,000
Their title, Our Changing Cities, was fitting for a city in resurgence from the war. With WWII behind them, soldiers had returned home, and European migration meant that the population boom was under way and the need for expansion was evident throughout all cities in Australia. Living standards had risen and the suburban dream was flourishing. After the woes of WWII, this was a time for celebration as goods and materials from abroad were available freely and the city was on the mend. Caltex's award was a prestigious, sought after prize; to many, this new, budding company signified prosperity and hope. Jack’s submission to the prize, reveals his fascination with infrastructure and its position within the natural landscape. In a mechanical fashion, Jack addresses key themes across the three panels that make up the work. The Lord Mayor is the central figure, sharing the space with equal parts family (left) and work (right), a reference also to employment and family values of the time. This symmetry appears throughout the piece, dancing through city life, industrialism and the urban growth of the suburbs. The 1956 Olympics were also in town so a state-of-the-art sports stadium and pioneering construction were at the helm of what Melbourne had to offer. Architecture also serves a key focal point in this piece, presenting a well-balanced depiction of the old and new buildings dotted across Melbourne, while carefully positioning Caltex’s iconic symbol amongst the This interest continued when he began collecting
illustrations of everyday life.
vintage British posters favouring subjects of the London
While Jack may have followed a set criterion in this
underground and British railways. He later joined the Air
captivating body of work, it’s clear that he had a deep
Force as a draftsman.
understanding of the Australian landscape. Melbourne is
Upon his return from the war, Jack pursued his studies at the Royal Institute of Technology, however it was not until further into his career that the prospect of an art competition presented itself - The Caltex Art Prize.
a balanced depiction of a key time of growth, and offers an important visual piece of the history of a city we all know and love today. LUCY FOSTER / Fine Art Specialist
Marking the opening of their new premises, Caltex Oil would offer the winning artist 500 pounds.
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— AUCTIONS —
JEWELS The Art of Adornment
ABOVE: A SOLITAIRE
DIAMOND RING BY TIFFANY & CO $45,000 - $55,000
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— AUCTIONS —
BELOW: A SAPPHIRE AND
DIAMOND JEWELLERY SUITE $20,000 - 30,000
Glittering diamonds & magnificent sapphires Following a fast paced 2019, here we are, starting
(illustrated on the inside front cover of this magazine)
Next Jewels Auction
another new year and in fact, a new decade. 2019 was a
and a beautiful deep orange citrine riviere necklace,
Mon 16 March, 6.30pm
busy and successful year, with a strong team and some
originally retailed by renowned Sydney jeweller, Anne
MELBOURNE
amazing jewels passing through our hands. The start
Schofield.
of this year sees a number of wonderful submissions already for our Fine Jewels auction. Illustrated here are a selection of highlights, at differing price points, that we look forward to presenting. Tiffany & Co jewellery is forever popular, and we are delighted to offer a large solitaire diamond ring, of 3.24cts by the much loved luxury jewellery house. The auction also features a glamorous gold and diamond cocktail bracelet, and in the antique section, a delicate starburst brooch detailed with diamonds and seed pearls
We are fortunate to see so many interesting gems at Leonard Joel, and our forthcoming March auction is no exception. A very special highlight however, is this magnificent star sapphire jewellery suite; the pendant alone being set with a sapphire of 44.8cts. We look forward to welcoming you to the viewing of Fine Jewels, prior to the auction which will take place on Monday 16 March at 6.30pm. JULIE FOSTER / Head of Jewels
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— AUCTIONS —
MODERN DESIGN Walking In Memphis
"When I was young, all we ever heard about was functionalism, functionalism, functionalism. It’s not enough. Design should also be sensual and exciting." ETTORE SOTTSASS
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— AUCTIONS —
Next Modern Design Auction Mon 6 April, 6.30pm MELBOURNE
LEFT: Ettore Sottsass 'Ashoka' Lamp For Memphis Milano $2,500 – 3,500
OPPOSITE: Ettore Sottsass
'Carlton' Bookcase For Memphis Milano $10,000 – 15,000
In a decade known for indulgence, the designs that
after the Bob Dylan song 'Stuck Inside of Mobile With
emerged from the Memphis Group defined the
the Memphis Blues Again', which had been skipping on
boundary-pushing postmodernism of the 1980s.
the record player that very evening.
Reacting against the emphasis that was placed on the style and the aesthetics of form, this Anti-design movement embraced expressive qualities to undermine the purely functional value of an object. As conventional Italian design of the period was seen as the pinnacle of good taste and elegance, they wished to question these concepts of taste and ‘good design’. While the Modernist palette consists mainly of black, whites and greys; Anti-design introduced visual exaggeration, with striking colour palettes on materials such as plastic and laminates. Instead of the integrity of the material’s properties, they embraced ornamentation and decoration in haphazard arrangements. The function of these designs was to subvert the way you
The movement defined the aesthetics of an entire decade. In 1981, its launch was a mass-media event at the Milan furniture fair, with people spilling out of the gallery, eager to have a look. Despite not going into major production nor being a financial success, Memphis penetrated popular culture. David Bowie was a fan, and a young Karl Lagerfeld went as far as furnishing his entire Monaco apartment with pieces from the collection. Although Memphis had a short life span, the movement and its founder Ettore Sottsass left an undeniable impact on a new generation of designers and design enthusiasts. And, like many movements, it developed a cult following after it ceased to exist.
thought about the object, shifting the conversation from
This was evident in 2015, when Sotheby’s held an
production to the consumer, and what an object can
auction of David Bowie’s Memphis Collection which
bring to your life.
included the Casablanca sideboard by Sottsass.
Like all movements, one starts with a vision; and one night a group of young designers crammed into founder Ettore Sottsass' 270-square-foot Milan
Estimated to sell for around $5,000, the piece hammered $88,419, and the total for the entire collection was $1.68 million.
apartment drinking wine and throwing wild ideas around.
Memphis may no longer exist as a movement but its
Applauding one another’s sketches of lamps and chairs,
cultural force continues to inspire all elements of the
it was Sottsass who said, ‘This is a collection! Let’s make
design world.
it.’ According to legend, he named the group Memphis
ANNA GRASSHAM / Head of Modern Design
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— AUCTIONS —
SYDNEY This, the second of our Collector's Auctions presents an eclectic selection of fine and decorative arts that span time and place, offering inspired buying opportunities. The George III Cuban Mahogany Full Front Bookcase c.1740 ($3,000-$5,000) is presented displaying a range of highlights from The Collector's Auction. The extensive collection of English blue and white transfer decorated porcelain is represented by a Dr Wall period Worcester Blue and White Transfer Teapot c.1755-70 ($300-$500), decorated in a version of The Fence pattern; a Wedgwood Blue and White Transfer Jug c. 1820 ($400-$600), decorated in the Absalom's Pillar pattern; and a Caughley Cabbage Leaf Blue and White Transfer Jug c. 1775 ($500-$700), printed with a version of the Fisherman pattern. A fine rare pair of English Regency Blue John and Ormolu Candlesticks, in the manner of Matthew Boulton c.1810 ($6,000-$8,000) are displayed with a fine quality Victorian Four Piece Sterling Silver Tea and Coffee service London 1857 ($1,500-$2,500). The glass collection includes an English Nailsea paperweight and Castleford doorstop Dumps c. 1880 ($300-$500). These ‘dumps’ or ‘dumpies’ were so-named because it was thought that they had been made from glass that had been dumped at the end of the day. The auction also features works of art by foremost Australian contemporary artists including Del Kathryn Barton, Shaun Gladwell, Bill Henson, Euan Macleod and William Robinson. Henson’s Untitled 2005-06 ($15,000$25,000) is a compelling landscape image of a rocky island rising from a dark ink-blue sea, silhouetted against a morning sky, demonstrating a masterful consideration of light and texture. Gladwell’s painting Anonymous Figure #4… Left Leg Forward 1998 ($20,000-$30,000) reveals a sophisticated appreciation for art history set within contemporary culture. It also shows an early interest in motion, and the relationship between the human figure ABOVE: A GEORGE III FALL FRONT
BOOKCASE BUREAU England c. 1740 $3,000 – 5,000
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and the forces of the natural world, which now define Gladwell’s video work.
— AUCTIONS —
The Collector's Auction The Collectors' Auction Tues 25 Feb, 6pm SYDNEY
ABOVE (both sides):
William Robinson (born 1936) with Errol Barnes (born 1941) William and the Goanna 1993 glazed ceramic 73cm height $15,000 – 25,000
William Robinson is widely recognised for his unique
Barnes. Their collaboration began with an idea conceived
interpretation of the Australian landscape, transforming
by Ray Hughes when, around 1990, Hughes sent artists
traditional one-point perspectives into multidimensional
from his gallery stable to work with Barnes. Painting in
viewing experiences. He is also known for his whimsical
glaze on spherical forms freed Robinson to painting in
portraits and farmyard scenes. He deploys the whimsy
the round, providing a distorted picture plane that he
and charm of the latter to his ceramic works, as seen in
affected in his landscape paintings.
William and the Goanna 1993 ($15,000-$25,000). Robinson developed a collection of plates, pots and vases in partnership with the Queensland potter, Errol
The Collector's Auction takes place on Tuesday 25 February in Sydney. HAMISH CLARK / Head of Leonard Joel Sydney
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— AUCTIONS —
Next Luxury Auction Wed 8 April, 6pm MELBOURNE
Luxury New Year, New Wardrobe — As we enter a new year and decade, there has never been a better time to declutter, reorganize, reset. Throughout 2019, Japanese author and professional organizer Marie Kondo spread a mission to ‘spark joy in the world through tidying’. Her approach is simple – declutter material objects from your life, and reap the benefits of organization, neatness and efficiency at home. An excellent place to start is with one’s wardrobe. TAKE STOCK OF WHAT YOU HAVE Place everything together by group. That means pulling out every handbag, every pair of sunglasses, every pair of high heels, from every wardrobe in the house. Place them into groups to visually evaluate the volume of what you own. THE JOY CHECK Maybe this Gucci bag was an impulse buy and it’s just too small. Perhaps a pair of sunglasses you bought five years ago just aren’t your style anymore. The KonMari TOP: A CLIC CLAC H BANGLE
BY HERMÈS Sold for $682 MIDDLE: AN ALMA GM BAG
BY LOUIS VUITTON Sold for $1,736 RIGHT: A PAIR OF SUNGLASSES
BY CHRISTIAN DIOR Sold for $347
method suggests looking at each item one at a time to consider whether it is useful and whether owning it makes you happy. DISCARD THOUGHTFULLY For items that aren’t used or don’t bring happiness, discard thoughtfully. With our environmental impact under the spotlight, it’s a time to reflect upon the ways we buy, use and discard fashion items. Rather than simply throwing away, consider donating to a charity store or investigate the increasingly popular secondary market for designer fashion and accessory items. Leonard Joel is now consigning designer pieces for the upcoming specialist April Luxury auction.
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BETHANY MCGOUGAN / Luxury Manager
— AUCTIONS —
Next Prints & Multiples Auction Wed 8 April, 6pm MELBOURNE
Prints & Multiples British Pop Art Movement — We are delighted to start the year with a bang, by featuring two works by Patrick Caulfield, one of the pioneers of the British Pop Art movement during the 1960s and '70s in our upcoming auction. At the beginning of Caulfield’s career, he adapted the traditional technique of sign painting to create his artworks, adding a black outline to his forms and simplifying the representation of objects. During this period, he deliberately chose subject matter that seemed quite mundane and ordinary, adding a sense of familiarity and nostalgia to his works. Caulfield often outlined his coloured subjects in black, emphasising the boldness of his colours and giving the works an eye catching, graphic quality. This technique can be seen in Lampshade, 1969. Later in his career, Caulfield became more focused on the architectural elements of his artworks, drawing inspiration from interior aspects of the home, again harnessing strong lines and bold colours to create his compositions. These later pieces were generally more
Caulfield’s artworks are now highly sought after and
detailed than his early works and captured a corner
adorn the walls of private and public collections
of the home that was not focused on in a larger scale
worldwide.
piece. He often used the repetition of one flat colour throughout the piece and added another, adjacent colour as a focal point to draw the viewer’s eye. We see an example of this in the second work by Caulfield featured within our auction, Interior: Night, 1971.
Lampshade, 1969 and Interior: Night, 1971 by Patrick Caulfield will be on view prior to the Prints & Multiples auction on 8 April, 2020. HANNAH RYAN / Prints & Multiples Manager
TOP: Patrick Caulfield
Lampshade 1969 screenprint signed and editioned verso edition number indecipherable 35 x 29cm $1,000 - 1,800 ABOVE: Patrick Caulfield
Interior: Night 1970-1 screenprint 24/100 signed and editioned on image 69.5 x 57cm $2,000 - 4,000
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— VALUATIONS —
Valuations
Leonard Joel’s first valuation day of 2020 will take place at Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) on Sunday 23 February, 12pm-4pm.
— SAM’s Collector's Roadshow runs alongside the Collector/Collected exhibition currently on show at SAM, which showcases two major collections of Australian studio pottery from the 1960s and 70s: The Studio Pottery from the John Nixon Collection and SAM’s own collection from this period. These collections are presented alongside the work of four contemporary artists who each explore ideas of collecting and collections. SAM’s Collector's Roadshow invites visitors to discover the value of their treasures. Bookings are essential through Eventbrite and there is a fee of $10 for up to three items. All proceeds will support SAM’s acquisitions and the museum’s collection. We hope you can join us. CAROLINE TICKNER, Head of Valuations
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— VALUATIONS —
Collector/Collected
Why do we collect? What compels us to gather together collections of things – sometimes valuable, sometimes not – that subsequent generations may treasure as reminders of someone near, or re-categorise into their own collection, or possibly just throw away? What for some is a treasure-trove of opportunity is for others the stuff of nightmares, and abhorrent clutter. The motivations of patrons and art collectors of all eras
And, of course, there is also a creative impulse to collecting
to collect have been studied extensively. Whatever the
that cannot be satisfied through other means. Whatever the
motivation, the value of collections lies in the way once
motivation, all collections reflect a curiosity with the world.
inanimate objects enable us to reconsider and rethink history
Of course, true collecting requires a degree of science.
through our own contemporary lens. This is the background
Ordering, systems and categories demonstrate that the
to a new show at the Shepparton Art Museum, Collector/
pastime is serious. The way it is displayed often differentiates
Collected, which focuses on the motivations for collecting
the artist or institution from the non-professional.
and how we value ‘things’. For the collector, the motivations may be many, consciously articulated or intuitively felt. And for the viewer, it creates another space for conversations that bring us together, teach us new things, or challenge our understandings of the past and the present. In 1988, the American dealer Irving Blum pointed to the social advantages to be gained from becoming a collector. A collector, Blum observed, became part of a network of lively people – artists, curators, writers, and other collectors. “One constantly receives requests for visits from people
Many artists blur the boundary between hobby and professional collecting, with compulsive online purchasing or trawling through car boot sales and charity shops. What differentiates the amateur hobbyist from the artist as collector is the artist’s ability to find orders and categories hiding in plain sight, creating artforms from junk. Rebecca Coates is the director of the Shepparton Art Museum, where a new exhibition, Collector/Collected, runs until March.
interested in one’s collection,” he said. “When a collector travels, he plugs into the art network, wherever he goes … It’s a fascinating and highly civilized kind of existence. Art can become the reason for living one’s life.” leonardjoel.com.au | 23
— —PROFILE EVENT — —
Arts Centre Melbourne
Over the past two years, The Ovation Dinner has raised funds to enable Arts Centre Melbourne through their program, ACCESS, to bring the performing arts to disadvantaged children around Victoria, regardless of gender, age, ability or cultural or socioeconomic background. Leonard Joel is proud to support Ovation 2020. The event takes place on 19 February at Sidney Myer Music Bowl. For more information visit ovationdinner.com
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ABOVE: Image courtesy John Gollings
— PROFILE — BOTTOM William Murray, Untitled, 2019, pastel on paper, 70 x 50 cm.
PORTRAITS OF WILL @ ARTS PROJECT AUSTRALIA brings together the works of Will Murray, an emerging figurative artist working in various mediums on paper including pastel, gouache, ink and graphite. With soft pastels as his choice of medium, each work possesses a deep sense of character, the outlandish nature of the subject’s posture and expression granting his artworks an air of mystery. Will Murray has worked in the studio at Arts Project Australia since 2016 and has exhibited in Arts Project Australia’s annual group exhibitions. This exhibition marks his first solo show. Coinciding with this exhibition is the group exhibition Pleased to meet you.
VENUE | Arts Project Australia, 24 High Street, Northcote VIC 3070 OPENING | Saturday 8 February, 3-5pm EXHIBITION | 8 February – 14 March 2020
GALLERY HOURS Mon to Fri 9am–5pm Sat 10am–5pm
24 High St Northcote VIC 3070 Australia
T +61 3 9482 4484 F +61 3 9482 1852
gallery@artsproject.org.au www.artsproject.org.au
Find us on social media #artsprojectaust leonardjoel.com.au | 25
22
ND REPORT
Australia has started 2020 with prolonged and devastating bushfires. In place of our usual 22nd Report on our cessation of trade in ivory and rhino horn, we spoke to our friends at the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) about their work in relation to the bushfires. — 1. Has the recent rain helped with the bushfires? Blazes have been downgraded after significant rain but with high fire dangers still remaining. The good news is that they have helped firefighters control their spread, and given them some respite. In NSW some rain has fallen across every fire ground including some of the state’s largest fires – along the south coast, the Gospers Mountain fire north of Sydney, and the multiple fires in the Snowy Valley near Kosciuszko National Park, where separate fires have merged to create a giant cross-border blaze that reaches into Victoria. In Victoria, the hard-hit East Gippsland also experienced welcome rain. The town of Mallacoota, where 4,000 people dramatically sheltered on the beach on New Year’s Eve, received 30mm over the past two days. But as of 21st January, there were still 87 fires burning in NSW and 17 fires burning in Victoria.
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2. Do we know what caused the bushfires to be so extreme this year? Australia is accustomed to an annual bushfire season – it’s not a case of ‘if’; but ‘where.’ This year however, the fire season started much earlier than normal with unprecedented intensity and unpredictability. These fires are so powerful that they are creating their own weather systems with lightning sparking more spot fires.
IFAW has also been able to deploy our koala detection dog, Bear, along with his handler at Detection Dogs for Conservation, into fire zones, and continue the sponsorship of a veterinary nurse at Friends of the Koala and a vet at Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary’s clinic in Tasmania. In Victoria, IFAW has supported Mosswood Wildlife founder, Tracey Wilson, as her team deploys with local firefighters to rescue injured or burned wildlife, beginning with national parks near Koroit. We are in
The catastrophic conditions affecting large parts of
constant partnership with many more local wildlife groups
Australia have been aggravated by months of severe
to assist and meet their needs.
drought, very dry fuels, dry soils and excessive heat. Record breaking temperatures including days where weather conditions are considered “catastrophic” have also impacted wildlife with animals suffering dehydration and birds and flying foxes (bats) literally falling dead from the sky. All of these factors have been compounded by climate change.
3. How many animals do you estimate have perished? Researchers from the University of Sydney estimated that half a billion animals have been killed by the fires. However, as the fires have intensified and spread, revised calculations put that figure at over 1 billion animals.
As the fires have escalated in scale and intensity in the first days of 2020, additional team members from our international offices with expertise in disaster response and risk reduction have been sent to increase our capacity and expand our relief efforts – assisting with critical needs assessments and getting supplies to where they are needed most.
5. What happens once the fires stop? We have been working with local wildlife groups here in Australia for over 30 years. That work has included helping set up the NSW Wildlife Council, sponsoring National Wildlife Care Conferences, providing grants and medical supplies to groups to assist with the rescue,
As shocking and incomprehensible as these estimates
rehabilitation and release of animals and have supported
are, they are unfortunately likely to be conservative as
veterinary care positions to deliver fast and expert care to
they are only for the State of New South Wales and only
sick, injured and orphaned wildlife.
for mammals, birds and reptiles. The figures don’t include insect, frogs or bats – species which are suffering losses in the hundreds as a direct result of the heatwave that is accompanying this current bushfire season. They also don’t include animals that are dying due to the heatwaves and due to the lack of food and water.
When the fires subside and eventually stop, the response will continue for many months – as fire grounds are deemed safe for search and rescue teams; it’s often in the weeks and months after fires that surviving animals start to suffer the impacts of starvation and dehydration. Our team and support will remain – we will continue to work
With over 24.7 million acres of land already burned and
to rebuild and restore damaged habitats. This includes
the fires burning across the country, over 2,200 homes
ongoing endeavours to plant thousands of eucalyptus
have gone up in flames and 29 people have lost their
trees with our partner Bangalow Koala and restore a vital
lives, the true cost of life is insurmountable.
wildlife corridor in the Northern Rivers Region of NSW.
4. What has your team been doing in the recent bushfires?
You can find out more by visiting our website: www.ifaw.org
IFAW has been active on the ground since the bushfires started back in September 2019, working with local partners to help animals affected by the devastating bushfires. In the early days of the disaster, we purchased an off-road wildlife rescue vehicle for one of our partners in northern NSW, as well as purchasing emergency enclosures for animals including koalas, kangaroos, birds and bats, as well as possum nesting boxes. Additionally, we’ve purchased and donated a disaster trailer, protective fire gear for several groups, fuel cards for caregivers and rescuers, medical supplies, the transfer of a water tank and UHF radios and food. We also provide support for the wildlife carers themselves providing vaccinations, mental health support as well as providing additional team support so that the carers themselves can take a day off. leonardjoel.com.au | 27
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The Thursday Auction Specialists —
03 8825 5619 | john.albrecht@leonardjoel.com.au
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Auction Specialists — PRIVATE COLLECTIONS John Albrecht, Head of Department 03 8825 5619 | john.albrecht@leonardjoel.com.au FINE ART Olivia Fuller, Head of Department 03 8825 5624 | olivia.fuller@leonardjoel.com.au JEWELS Julie Foster, Head of Department 03 8825 5605 | julie.foster@leonardjoel.com.au DECORATIVE ARTS
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Chiara Curcio, Head of Department 03 8825 5635 | chiara.curcio@leonardjoel.com.au Hamish Clark, Head of Department, Sydney 02 9362 9045 | hamish.clark@leonardjoel.com.au MODERN DESIGN Anna Grassham, Head of Department 03 8825 5637 | anna.grassham@leonardjoel.com.au COLLECTABLES Rebecca Stormont 03 8825 5625 | objects.assistant@leonardjoel.com.au LUXURY Bethany McGougan 03 8825 5645 | bethany.mcgougan@leonardjoel.com.au
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PRINTS & MULTIPLES Hannah Ryan 03 8825 5630 | hannah.ryan@leonardjoel.com.au
Sale Rooms — MELBOURNE 333 Malvern Road, South Yarra, Melbourne VIC 3141 Telephone: 03 9826 4333 SYDNEY The Bond, 36–40 Queen Street, Woollahra, Sydney NSW 2025 Telephone: 02 9362 9045
LEFT: AN IMPORTANT SOLITAIRE DIAMOND RING BY TIFFANY & CO. Sold for $225,600
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