Deborah Bell will share her insights and expertise as a part of the
impressive lineup at the PGH Photo Fair Speaker’s Series. The evening will
discuss market trends, the differences between running her own gallery and
managing a full department at a major auction house, and the work she’s been
doing to consolidate Christie’s tremendous reputation for “single-owner sales.”
These sales consist of works drawn exclusively from a single collection. As
more important early collections from the 1970s and 80s appear on the market,
Bell explains, her department becomes more sensitive to their peculiarities.
Unlike the “various owner” sales that feature objects from various consignors, single-owner
sales often take fascinating biographical or aesthetic shapes, reflecting the
character of the collector in surprising ways. Beyond the obvious appeal to
collectors of photography, this talk will interest pretty much anyone who has
an interest in the medium. But photography is not the sole topic of interest
here. Anyone who has a passion for contemporary art and the role of the major
auction houses in that market will be curious to hear what Ms Bell has to say.
This is the second talk of the ongoing PGH Photo Fair
Speakers Series. The first was delivered earlier this December by the curator
and author Marvin Heiferman to a jam-packed Carnegie Museum apartment space in
Lawrenceville. Following the format of this earlier event, Bell’s presentation
will include a conversation with me followed by audience questions.
January 9, 2013
Mattress Factory Lobby
6:30, talk starts at 7:00, finish around 8:00
500 Sampsonia Way
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(guest contributing writer, Alexandra Oliver)
