Contemporary Calgary fundraiser auction to feature $250,000 Jean Paul Riopelle painting
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- 25 May 2023
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A local supporter and connoisseur of art sought to make a charitable contribution to the gallery for their annual fundraising event, LOOK2023. The generous individual, preferring to remain unidentified, approached Leinster, the gallery representative, with an intriguing proposition. The patron informed Leinster that this year marked the centenary of Quebecois painter and sculptor Jean Paul Riopelle, a distinguished artist recognized internationally for his abstract style and captivating "mosaic" creations. Nowadays, Riopelle's works command significant sums in auction houses. The patron believed it would be fitting and relevant to donate one of their own paintings to the gallery.
Leinster recalls the moment, saying, "A brief moment of silence followed, perhaps due to the sheer astonishment of the situation. Instead of immediate gratitude and awe, my mind struggled to process the words I had just heard. I believe I managed to utter, 'You must be joking.' I found myself at a loss for words, which is a rarity for me. It was simply unbelievable to encounter such unparalleled generosity. We are dealing with one of Canada's most important artists in the history of art, and his contributions to contemporary art in this country are being celebrated in numerous ways. This is no ordinary painting."
The artwork in question, created in 1962 using oil on canvas, bears the title "Vesperales." This masterpiece has been appraised by three different experts, all valuing it at $250,000. It will be one of the featured artworks available for auction during Contemporary Calgary's annual fundraising event, LOOK2023. In the previous year, this auction managed to raise an impressive sum of $1 million. Christie's International consultant, Brett Sherlock, will oversee the live auction, taking place on June 3, coinciding with the gala hosted by Contemporary Calgary. Additionally, a silent auction showcasing 47 donated artworks is already underway.
While Riopelle's painting stands as one of the most highly regarded pieces up for auction, it is not the sole highlight. The live auction will also showcase works by renowned artists such as Robert Houle, Paul Kuhn, Ryan Sluggett, Ron Moppett, David Burdeny, Chris Cran, and Shary Boyle. The silent auction, on the other hand, will exhibit captivating artworks contributed by Dianne Bos, Nancy Boyd, Billie Ray Busby, and Douglas Coupland.
The entire collection of auction pieces will remain on display at Contemporary Calgary until June 3, providing an opportunity for the community to engage with and appreciate these artworks. Leinster emphasizes the significance of the occasion, stating, "We hold this event in utmost regard, as it combines the elements of a gala fundraiser with a focus on art. Additionally, we curate a month-long exhibition featuring these artists, enabling the community not only to view the artwork available for sale but also to celebrate the talents of the artists and sculptors residing and working here. It is crucial to recognize this exhibition as a substantial showcase of exceptional art."
