The Value of Art Episode 9 Medium

Summary

Sotheby's specialists consider various criteria when valuing art, including the medium used. Traditional media like marble, bronze, and oil on canvas are often more valuable, but innovative techniques in contemporary art have broadened the definition of what can be considered valuable. Artists like Andy Warhol and Degas experimented with different media, from silk screens to pastels, each impacting the art's value. Printmaking and photography techniques, such as lithography and silver gelatin prints, also influence prices, with certain media preferred for specific artists or works, making the evaluation process complex and dynamic.

Takeaways

• 🎨 Medium is a crucial factor in determining the value of art, with different materials and techniques carrying varying degrees of prestige and durability.
• 🗿 In sculpture, materials like marble and bronze are highly valued, often because they are directly touched by the artist, whereas plaster, being a master model, is considered less valuable.
• 🖼️ Oil on canvas is considered the top of the hierarchy for paintings due to its durability and the practical aspect of the medium.
• 🖌️ Contemporary artists are re-evaluating traditional mediums and exploring innovative materials, expanding the definition of what can be considered art.
• 🖋️ Printmaking techniques such as lithography, screen printing, etching, and aquatints each produce distinct effects, influencing the choice of medium based on the artist's vision.
• 📸 Photography values vary with the type of print, such as silver gelatin and platinum, with the latter often commanding higher prices.
• 👨‍🎨 Artistic expression can transcend mediums, as seen with artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose work is equally valued on paper and canvas.
• 🖼️ The preference for certain mediums can vary by artist, with some, like Odilon Redon, being more sought after in pastel rather than oil.
• 🎨 Gouache works by artists like René Magritte can sometimes match or exceed the value of oil paintings, reflecting the evolving perception of traditional mediums.
• ✏️ Works on paper, including sketches and pastels, can be more valuable than traditionally thought, especially when they best represent the artist's skill, as seen with Edgar Degas' pastel works.

Q & A

What are the primary factors considered by Sotheby's specialists when valuing art?

Sotheby's specialists consider the medium used by the artist as the primary factor when valuing art, which includes the material and technique employed in creating the work.

How does the medium impact the value of a sculpture?

The medium impacts the value of a sculpture significantly, with materials like marble and bronze generally holding higher value than plaster, due to the direct artist touch and the durability of the materials.

What is the significance of the artist's touch in determining the value of a sculpture?

The artist's touch is significant as it denotes authenticity and personal involvement, which can elevate the value of the artwork, especially in the case of marble sculptures.

Why is oil on canvas considered at the top of the hierarchy for paintings and drawings?

Oil on canvas is considered at the top of the hierarchy due to its durability and the practical aspect it offers, making it a more traditional and valued medium for paintings and drawings.

How does the use of different printing techniques in printmaking affect the value of the artwork?

Different printing techniques like lithography, screen printing, etching, and aquatints create unique effects, and the choice of technique can influence the value of the artwork based on the artist's intent and the desired outcome.

What role does the durability of a medium play in determining the value of contemporary art?

Durability is a practical aspect that can affect the value of contemporary art, as ephemeral materials that don't last can pose preservation challenges and thus impact the artwork's value.

How does the versatility of an artist like Andy Warhol contribute to the value of their work?

Andy Warhol's versatility across various mediums and techniques allows for a broader appeal and can contribute to the value of his work, as there is a wide range of artistic expressions to appreciate.

Why might a platinum print be more valuable than a silver gelatin print in photography?

Platinum prints can be more valuable than silver gelatin prints due to factors such as the rarity of the material, the quality of the image, and the artist's preference or reputation for using a particular medium.

How does the medium choice affect the value of works by artists like John Michelle Basquiat?

For artists like John Michelle Basquiat, the medium choice does not significantly affect the value, as his work is appreciated and valued equally on paper and canvas.

What is the traditional perception of the value of pastel works compared to oil paintings?

Traditionally, pastel works might be considered less valuable than oil paintings, but for artists like Odilon Redon, pastel works can be more sought after and thus more valuable.

How does the perception of a sketch as preparatory work affect its value?

A sketch, often seen as preparatory work, might be valued less than a finished piece. However, for artists like Edgar Degas, whose skill in pastel and charcoal on paper is highly regarded, sketches can be as valuable as or more valuable than oil paintings.