(Photo: Yayoi Kusama / Bonhams )
A remarkable and unprecedented event is set to unfold at Bonhams' upcoming Modern and Contemporary Art sale in Hong Kong as the auction house unveils "Infinity," a painting by the iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama that has never before been publicly exhibited. This 1995 red-and-black masterpiece is expected to fetch over $5 million, captivating art enthusiasts and collectors alike with its unique composition and profound symbolism.
A Rare Fusion of Motifs
"Infinity" is a rare testament to Kusama's artistic prowess, seamlessly blending two of her most renowned motifs: dots and infinity nets. The composition of the painting is strikingly divided into two distinct halves, with black dots adorning a vibrant red background on one side and a mesmerizing interplay of black and red nets on the other.
In a statement, Bonhams described the work as "immersive and compelling," highlighting the endlessly looping and repeating whorls that have recurring themes throughout Kusama's career. These motifs reflect her personal history and offer a glimpse into her inner state, inviting viewers into a mesmerizing journey through the artist's psyche.
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A Testament to Kusama's Ascendance
The unveiling of "Infinity" comes amid Kusama's unparalleled success in the contemporary art world. Earlier this year, a report revealed that Kusama emerged as the highest-selling contemporary artist in 2023, with her artworks fetching a staggering $80.9 million at auction. This marked a significant milestone, surpassing the previous year's top seller, David Hockney, by more than $30 million.
Notably, the most expensive Kusama artwork sold last year was "A Flower," a 2024 painting fetched nearly $10 million at an auction hosted by Christie's Hong Kong. Additionally, in April 2023, a group of five works by Kusama, all created within the last two decades, collectively sold for $22.9 million during a Sotheby's evening sale in Hong Kong, underscoring the enduring demand and appreciation for Kusama's visionary creations in the global art market.
The Kusama Phenomenon
Kusama's popularity has soared to unprecedented heights in recent years, earning her widespread acclaim and recognition in the art market. Some have even likened her influence to a cultural proliferation fueled by significant events, including a retrospective at the M+Museum and a highly publicized Louis Vuitton campaign, famously known as the Kusama Industrial Complex.
As the auction approaches, anticipation mounts, setting the stage for a historic moment in the annals of contemporary art. With "Infinity" poised to debut on the auction block, collectors and enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the opportunity to acquire a piece of Kusama's unparalleled legacy. The unveiling of this never-before-seen masterpiece is a testament to Kusama's enduring influence and artistic brilliance, solidifying her status as one of our most revered and celebrated artists. As the bidding commences, all eyes are on Bonhams Hong Kong, where "Infinity" stands poised to captivate and inspire future generations.
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