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BY ALBERT CHEN
The late South African artist Gerard Sekoto has once again proven his lasting impact on the art world, with his masterpiece The Artist’s Brother selling for an astonishing £406,000 ($528,000) at Bonhams’ Modern & Contemporary African Art sale—more than four times its original estimate of £100,000-150,000 ($130,000-195,000).
This landmark sale underscores the growing demand for Sekoto’s work and the increasing recognition of Modern African art on the global stage. The auction, which totaled £1.6 million ($2.08 million), saw Sekoto’s piece emerge as the top-selling lot, captivating collectors with its historical significance and artistic brilliance.
A Pivotal Work That Launched an International Career
Painted between 1945 and 1947, The Artist’s Brother is a deeply personal work that marked a crucial turning point in Sekoto’s life. Created while he lived in Eastwood, a Black dormitory suburb of Pretoria, the painting reflects his exploration of urban African life and the tensions between tradition and modernity. Sekoto’s brother, Bernard, is depicted in a contemplative pose, surrounded by elements that symbolize both his roots and his aspirations—an African grass mat juxtaposed against suburban furniture.
The painting’s significance extends beyond its artistic value—it played a direct role in funding Sekoto’s self-imposed exile to Paris. In 1947, amid the increasing racial segregation of South Africa, Sekoto sold The Artist’s Brother at an exhibition in Pretoria, using the proceeds to relocate to Europe. He would never return to his homeland, but his career flourished internationally, cementing his legacy as a pioneer of Modern African art.
Sekoto’s Legacy Continues to Soar
Helene Love-Allotey, Head of Bonhams’ Modern & Contemporary African Art Department, highlighted the exceptional nature of this sale: “Gerard Sekoto’s The Artist’s Brother is a particularly special work, and a highly sought-after moment in his oeuvre before his voluntary exile from South Africa. It is unsurprising that this rare work sparked such excitement amongst collectors, and we are delighted that the results of the sale reflect the exceptional quality of the works offered.”
The staggering price achieved for The Artist’s Brother reinforces Sekoto’s enduring influence and the increasing prominence of Modern African artists in the international market. As collectors continue to seek out his work, Sekoto’s legacy as a groundbreaking artist remains stronger than ever.
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African Artists Show Strong Results at Auction: William Kentridge Smashes Estimate
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The post African Artist Sekoto Shatters Expectations at Auction, Selling for Over Half a Million USD—Four Times the Estimate appeared first on World Art News.
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The 350-year-old artifact is one of seven objects returned to the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo Native American tribe
The 350-year-old artifact is one of seven objects returned to the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo Native American tribe
A Powerful Reflection on Identity, Resilience, and Cultural Heritage
Acclaimed American artist Mateo Blanco is renowned for pushing artistic boundaries with unconventional materials. This time, he turns his craft inward, weaving his own personal story into a breathtaking piece of art. Blanco’s Born of Two Lands Flag (2024–2025) will be on display at the Museum of Art – DeLand from April 17 to August 31, offering visitors a striking exploration of identity, belonging, and the fusion of cultures.
A Flag Like No Other
Unlike a traditional American flag, Blanco’s version is crafted from textiles dyed with natural elements—including Mata Ratón Tree, Almendro Tree, coconut, cilantro, and achiote—paying homage to his Colombian heritage. This organic color palette not only reflects the artist’s roots but also redefines what it means to be American.
“This flag, made with Colombian textiles, is me,” Blanco shares. “The American flag is one of the most recognized symbols in the world, representing identity and belonging. By transforming it, I’m telling my own story—one of dual heritage, deep roots, and the strength it takes to embrace both.”
A Scar That Tells a Story
At the center of the flag, a prominent scar cuts across the fabric—a deeply personal symbol for Blanco.
“As an infant, I underwent a life-saving operation that left a scar on my body, a mark that shaped who I am,” he explains. “This flag carries a scar as well, representing resilience, survival, and the imperfections that make us whole.”
An Exhibition That Sparks Reflection
The Museum of Art – DeLand recognizes Born of Two Lands Flag as a significant addition to contemporary art, challenging viewers to rethink national identity, heritage, and personal history.
“We are honored to showcase this extraordinary work, which aligns with our commitment to exhibiting art that speaks to identity, heritage, and evolving narratives.” — Tariq Gibran, Curator, Museum of Art – DeLand
Blanco’s piece is more than just a work of art—it’s a call to action. Through it, he invites the public to reflect on environmental conservation, the power of heritage, and the complexity of personal identity.
“I am Colombian-American—rooted in both places, shaped by both cultures,” Blanco says. “And you? Who are you?”
View the Artwork
Exhibition dates: April 17 – August 31 at the Museum of Art – DeLand
Explore more of Blanco’s work: Artsy profile
About Mateo Blanco
Born in Miami in 1981, Mateo Blanco studied fine art in Medellín, Colombia, under the legendary Débora Arango Pérez—whose legacy is immortalized on Colombia’s 2,000-peso bill. His artistic background includes goldsmithing and jewelry design, and he holds a B.A. from Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, FL. Blanco is also a talented opera singer who once performed for President George H.W. Bush. His work is represented by Rosenbaum Contemporary, with galleries in Boca Raton and Palm Beach.
Follow him on Instagram: @mateoblancoart
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The post Mateo Blanco’s Born of Two Lands Flag to Make Bold Debut at Museum of Art – DeLand appeared first on World Art News.
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