A selection of Prints from the Scottish Contemporary Art Auction

Our Scottish Contemporary Art Auctions feature artworks across all mediums, and this month I am very excited about a few lots in particular as they show Scotland’s important contribution to printmaking by some of our most celebrated artists.

The following four lots formed part of London’s Royal College of Art portfolio Six Artists which was published as a limited edition of 50 in 1992.

Eduardo Paolozzi’s (1924-2005) visualisation of the French novel ‘Les Chants de Maldoror’ is an energetic composition and a demonstration of his affinity with Surrealism. Hand coloured by the artist, this etching (lot 538) is offered with an auction estimate of £250-450.

Nana Shiomi’s (b 1956) contribution comes in the form of an elegant woodcut entitled Blue Venus. Shiomi is best known for her work as a printmaker and lot 539 presents a wonderful opportunity to own a beautiful work by one of the best contemporary Japanese printmakers.  Blue Venus carries an estimate of £200-400.

As former Professor of Printmaking at the Royal College of Art, Tim Mara (1948-1997) experimented with a number of forms of printmaking, often combining digital printing with more traditional processes. His focus was on still life, and lot 540 is an excited example of how and skilled and imaginative hand can transform ordinary objects.

John Bellany’s (1942-2013) Celtic Voyage is a homage to his roots where Calvanism dominated and fishing was a way of life. Offered at an estimate of £400 – 600 and featuring his favoured symbols such as fish and forlorn female figures, this lithograph is a must for Bellany collectors.

Although not part of the RCA portfolio, as one of Scotland’s most accomplished printmakers Barbara Rae (b 1943) always deserves a mention. Eagle in the Clouds – Green is a wonderfully abstract monotype and carries an estimate of £500-800 (lot 565).

And finally, no Scottish Contemporary Art Auction is complete without a Hebridean landscape (in my opinion, anyway). Tom Mackenzie’s (1947-2018) rich depictions of his beloved Skye have graced our gallery walls many times, and it’s always a pleasure to hang prints which manage to capture the essence and beauty of the Hebridean coasts. Lot 743 carries an auction estimate of £100-200.

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Jenny MacLeod

If you have paintings you wish to sell please contact pictures@mctears.co.uk