Stauss & Co’s upcoming auction, ‘Ways of Seeing: South African and International Photography,‘ offers a unique opportunity to acquire works that explore the dimensions of personhood, subjectivity and community through diverse photographic practices. This is the first photography exclusive auction by Strauss & Co. With that said, the auction brings together a curated selection of prominent collections. This includes images ranging from intimate portraits to depictions of the physical and built environment. This is reflecting on the ethics of seeing and the dynamic interplay between viewer and subject.
Alongside some African photographers, the sale highlights significant international photographers too. This includes Bill Brandt, Sebastião Salgado and Viviane Sassen. Many of these featured works are rarely seen in local collections and exhibitions. Additionally, the auction includes works by women and non-binary artists such as Nan Goldin, Jillian Lochner, Zanele Muholi. These artists invite viewers to consider personhood through the nude body. More artists include David Goldblatt and Mikhael Subotzky whose work explores contemporary South African history through spatial politics. A portion of the sale features works from The Gary Eisenberg Collection, honouring his legacy as a devoted immigration lawyer. This inclusion is consigned with profound gratitude from his wife Dominique Eisenberg.
Strauss & Co’s groundbreaking auction will take place on Wednesday 18th of September at 7pm SAST. The auction forms part of September auction week which includes a special single-artist focus sale of Hylton Nel as well as Modern and Contemporary Art Evening sale, both taking place on Tuesday 17th September. The auction is available for viewing at Strauss & Co’s Woodstock offices in Cape Town ahead of the auction. In conclusion, the exhibition will be complemented by a series of events, including walkabouts and discussions.
