Art Auction East Africa has become a pivotal event in the art scene in Nairobi, and indeed in the region. The auction offers a unified platform for art collectors and enthusiasts an opportunity to view significant works by both established and emerging artists of East Africa, including those from some private collections which might not otherwise be accessible.
Broken Mirror (2004) by Sane Wadu
Beginnings
Nairobi’s Circle Art Agency, one of the leading institutions supporting the art scene in East Africa, held the first ever auction of East African contemporary art on 5 November 2013 at the Villa Rosa Kempinski. Forty-seven lots were selected from the primary and secondary markets across the region, including from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan and Ethiopia. Some of the art under the hammer had not been seen in public for decades – there were some hidden treasures that form part of Kenya’s cultural history dating from 1967 to 2013.
That remarkable evening saw over KSH 18.5 million go under the hammer, with over 90% of lots sold.
Richard Kimathi – Mongooses (Kibera) (2009) (from the auction of 2013)
From that event, Circle Art has played a critical role in formalizing and elevating the art auction model in the region. The auction’s primary goal is to highlight the unique artistic voices from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia, and the broader region, ensuring that these artists gain international recognition while at the same time establishing sustainable markets locally.
Curated Collections and Diverse Representation
Each auction is carefully curated to represent a wide spectrum of East African art. The collections include works from both established names in the African art world and promising emerging artists, with a variety of media such as painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
Detail of sculpture La Pieta (circa 2002) by Chelenge Van Rampelberg
The auctions highlight the diversity of East African art practices, featuring themes that touch on social, political, and historical narratives. Artists like Peterson Kamwathi, Wangechi Mutu, Paul Onditi, and Richard Kimathi have had significant representation in these auctions.
Affordability and Accessibility
One of the driving principles behind the East African Art Auction is to keep art accessible to a wider audience, including local collectors. The auction offers a range of price points, from affordable pieces for new collectors to high-value works that appeal to seasoned investors.
Tabitha Wa Thuku – An Endless Beginner (2024)
Back in 2013, Danda Jaroljmek, director at Circle Art recognized that in a city which at that time was lacking galleries and an artistic education, “the traditional gallery sort of situation..is not necessarily the best way to bring in a new audience”. Instead, she thought to cater to a Kenyan attitude:
Kenyans like a party. By having a big noise, some glamour, a sort of party atmosphere, that’s perhaps a better way of doing it.
And so Jaroljmek set the tone for the next decade of the endeavour.
Elevating artists
The East African Art Auction has played a crucial role in propelling the careers of several artists. Michael Soi, known for his satirical and colorful depictions of modern Kenyan society, has gained considerable recognition through his participation . Paul Onditi, whose textured paintings often explore themes of solitude and the human condition, has seen his work increase in demand due to exposure at the auctions.
Paul Onditi – Untitled, undated (acquired in 2022)
These events have also contributed to record-breaking sales for certain pieces, with some works selling for prices that underscore the growing market value of East African art. In 2023 record figures were achieved for artists Yony Waite, Gakunju Kaigwa, David Mzuguno and Rosemary Karuga.
Although the auction is centered on East African artists, it has drawn significant international attention. Collectors from Europe, North America, and Asia frequently attend, attracted by the unique perspectives and styles emerging from the region. This international presence has helped to elevate the profiles of East African artists on the global stage.
Mohamed Charinda – Untitled (2000)
By providing a prestigious platform, the auction has given East African artists access to global collectors, critics, and curators. This visibility has translated into gallery shows abroad, artist residencies, and further auction appearances at international art fairs for some. By fostering appreciation for the diverse and dynamic art being produced in the region, the auction has become a vital catalyst for the growth of the local art market.
2024 Auction
This year’s auction lots are online and will be at Circle Art Gallery to preview in person from 23 October. The works include a wide variety of art from the East African region spanning across almost 50 years.
Zachariah Mbutha – Untitled
There will be a preview party on Wednesday 23 October 2024 from 6 – 8 pm. This is an opportunity for interested collectors to view all of the lots in person as well as to find out more information about our selection ahead of the auction.
Bidding can be done in person, over the phone, by leaving an absentee bid or online.
The Live Auction will take place from 7pm on Wednesday 6 November 2024 at Circle Art Gallery, Victoria Square, Riara Road. The Auction will be live streamed for viewing and bidding at online auction house, invaluable.com
Through their website, you will need to register to bid and participate in real time from your computer or on the Invaluable phone app (available for both Android and Apple OS). Those wishing to bid must register, either on Invaluable for online bidding or by using the form on our website for in person, phone or absentee bidding.
Edward Saidi Tingatinga –
Untitled (Mermaids), undated