BILLINGS Auction House Celebrates a Decade of Excellence
BILLINGS Auction House is set to commemorate its tenth anniversary with a grand celebration, highlighted by the upcoming special event, BILLINGS AT TEN, alongside an online Scandinavian Design auction. This is a significant milestone for an establishment that has become synonymous with modern and contemporary design.
A Curated Selection of Iconic Art and Design
The auction will showcase a diverse range of remarkable artworks and design pieces. Notable highlights include Ed Moses' impressive 12 feet by 24 feet 'Billboard Painting' from 2017, as well as a stunning walnut rocking chair crafted by Sam Maloof in 1983. These pieces encapsulate the essence of BILLINGS, where every item tells a story.
Pushing Boundaries in the Auction World
Since its inception in 2015, BILLINGS has emerged as a pioneering auction house, addressing a considerable gap in modern auctioneering in the area. The brainchild of Lorca Cohen, Greg Wooten, Joshua Kritzer, and Rich Carmichael, the auction house has built its reputation on not just offering celebrated design items but also on creating an inclusive and engaging atmosphere.
Making Auctions Accessible to Everyone
Rich Carmichael, one of the founding partners, reflects on the evolution of auctions over the past decade. What once were events exclusive to collectors has transformed into experiences that attract a broader audience. Carmichael explains, 'At BILLINGS, we strive to demystify the auction process while making it fun and accessible. Our aim is to welcome newcomers and ensure they feel at home during their visit.'
Diverse Offerings at the Anniversary Auction
The tenth-anniversary auction will feature nearly 400 lots, spotlighting exquisite furniture, art, and lighting from recognized designers such as Pierre Jeanneret, Charles Eames, and Jean Prouvé. Each piece in the auction exhibits a blend of creativity and craft, illustrating modernism's evolution.
Highlights from Contemporary Designers
Among the contemporary selections at the auction, attendees can look forward to:
- Unique works from the celebrated designer William Emmerson, particularly his 'Rib Line' series.
- Seating options from Lawson-Fenning, showcasing innovative design.
- Various pieces from Kelly Wearstler's designs, including a one-of-a-kind mirror created by Misha Kahn.
Studio Craft Represented
Studio craft will also take a prominent place at the auction. Noteworthy items include:
- The 'Minguren II' coffee table crafted by George Nakashima, which speaks to the artistry of woodwork.
- Unique chairs designed by John Nyquist, representing comfort and style.
- A sculptural ring designed by Clare Falkenstein, epitomizing the fusion of art and jewelry.
Exploring Scandinavian Design
Alongside the anniversary auction, BILLINGS is excited to present its Scandinavian Design auction. This online event offers a collection that spans nearly a century, highlighting pieces from notable creators from the 1930s to the 2000s.
Highlights of Scandinavian Collection
The Scandinavian auction features:
- Elegant flatweave rugs that showcase traditional craftsmanship.
- Works by renowned designers such as Hans Wegner and Borge Mogensen, exemplifying Scandinavian minimalism.
Upcoming Auction Preview
Anticipation builds as the preview for the auction approaches:
Saturday Preview: 9 AM to 2 PM on a Saturday, with additional preview hours on Monday through Thursday.
Friday will feature a special preview party in the evening, offering a sneak peek into the exciting pieces set to be auctioned.
About BILLINGS Auction House
Founded with the vision to reshape the auction industry, BILLINGS has quickly become a trusted name in the modern design marketplace. The auction house hosts quarterly events, consistently presenting a wide array of lots—each a testament to quality, ranging from prominent to obscure designs. The commitment to transparency and accessibility has allowed BILLINGS to connect with a diverse range of buyers and sellers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the BILLINGS AT TEN auction?
The event commemorates BILLINGS Auction House's decade-long commitment to modern and contemporary design, showcasing notable pieces.
When can attendees preview the auction items?
Attendees can preview items starting from Saturday morning leading up to the auction, including special evening events.
What types of items will be featured in the Scandinavian Design auction?
The Scandinavian Design auction features a variety of items from the 1930s to 2000s, highlighting signature minimalist designs.
Who founded BILLINGS Auction House?
BILLINGS was founded by Lorca Cohen, Greg Wooten, Joshua Kritzer, and Rich Carmichael, aiming to transform auction accessibility.
How can one participate in the auctions?
BILLINGS offers various participation methods, including in-person bidding, online options, and absentee bids.