Page 176 - index
P. 176
P Patron Profle
As an auctioneer, I began to appreciate the value people
placed on their art acquisitions. Apparently, as some
household incomes increased, patrons changed from
buying posters and mass-produced art to purchasing
limited-edition prints and originals. So, there you have
it! It goes without saying that the growth of any industry
is built on the backs of the greats that led the way. The
Harlem Renaissance was that foundation. Today’s artists
are a part of a new renaissance on the shoulders of the
Harlem Renaissance, and it is happening before our eyes.
Mike Tendler
President, Self-Employed Insurance Group
Elizabeth, PA
As a member of the Expo working team, I fnd the
auctions to be my favorite event. There’s an air of
excitement as bidders enter. The auctioneers entertain
the crowded room with bidding wars, fun and laughter.
Furthermore, designated auctions beneft local charities.
I was there with October Gallery from the very
beginning––at the very frst auction some 20 years The Philadelphia Art Expo is much like a family reunion.
ago. My perspective is unlike most because I have Young and old gather to meet the artists and renew
been one of the auctioneers for each of those years. old acquaintances. Artists eagerly make the annual
I have watched, and have been a frst-hand witness November trip to proudly display their latest works; and,
to, the growth of the African-American art industry. I feel attendees food the halls for three days.
that I have insight not aforded to many. As I see it, a
remarkable metamorphosis has taken place. There’s something to be said when everyone leaves the
event a winner.
The African-American culture has value. I am referring
to economic value. There is no question that The Cosby Melodee Kessler
Show and Good Times brought the artwork into millions Vice President, Self-Employed Insurance Group
of homes and living rooms on a weekly basis. Ernie Elizabeth, PA
Barnes’ Sugar Shack and Ellis Wilson’s The Funeral
Procession were prominently displayed for us to admire
on TV. Through my discussions with artists and gallery
owners, it became clear that auctions and galleries saw
an increased interest, especially in the work of artists seen
on TV. Name recognition was on the incline as Annie Lee,
Paul Goodnight, Cal Massey, Romare Bearden became
household names. This did not happen immediately,
however, but over time.
Waterboy by Oronde Kairi Johnson
177
176 177
As an auctioneer, I began to appreciate the value people
placed on their art acquisitions. Apparently, as some
household incomes increased, patrons changed from
buying posters and mass-produced art to purchasing
limited-edition prints and originals. So, there you have
it! It goes without saying that the growth of any industry
is built on the backs of the greats that led the way. The
Harlem Renaissance was that foundation. Today’s artists
are a part of a new renaissance on the shoulders of the
Harlem Renaissance, and it is happening before our eyes.
Mike Tendler
President, Self-Employed Insurance Group
Elizabeth, PA
As a member of the Expo working team, I fnd the
auctions to be my favorite event. There’s an air of
excitement as bidders enter. The auctioneers entertain
the crowded room with bidding wars, fun and laughter.
Furthermore, designated auctions beneft local charities.
I was there with October Gallery from the very
beginning––at the very frst auction some 20 years The Philadelphia Art Expo is much like a family reunion.
ago. My perspective is unlike most because I have Young and old gather to meet the artists and renew
been one of the auctioneers for each of those years. old acquaintances. Artists eagerly make the annual
I have watched, and have been a frst-hand witness November trip to proudly display their latest works; and,
to, the growth of the African-American art industry. I feel attendees food the halls for three days.
that I have insight not aforded to many. As I see it, a
remarkable metamorphosis has taken place. There’s something to be said when everyone leaves the
event a winner.
The African-American culture has value. I am referring
to economic value. There is no question that The Cosby Melodee Kessler
Show and Good Times brought the artwork into millions Vice President, Self-Employed Insurance Group
of homes and living rooms on a weekly basis. Ernie Elizabeth, PA
Barnes’ Sugar Shack and Ellis Wilson’s The Funeral
Procession were prominently displayed for us to admire
on TV. Through my discussions with artists and gallery
owners, it became clear that auctions and galleries saw
an increased interest, especially in the work of artists seen
on TV. Name recognition was on the incline as Annie Lee,
Paul Goodnight, Cal Massey, Romare Bearden became
household names. This did not happen immediately,
however, but over time.
Waterboy by Oronde Kairi Johnson
177
176 177
