Hilton Head Art Auction offers art for every price range

Things are relatively quiet now, but come the afternoon of Oct. 8, The Art League of Hilton Head Gallery at the Arts Center of Coastal Carolina will be transformed to accommodate the Annual Hilton Head Art Auction.

Now in its 16th year, the more than 100 paintings, and sculptures which will go be auctioned will fill the gallery to the brim.

The work in this year’s event exceeds all expectations.

“I think this is one of the best collections we’ve ever assembled,” said Ben Whiteside, who with his partners, Jack Morris and David Leahy, have organized the event. “We have a Jamie Wyeth, for heaven sake, and a couple of LeRoy Niman’s and a Ray Ellis watercolor that is just knock out.”

Simply to view the work of these world famous artists is the most incredible gift. The Wyeth piece, “Gulls and Burger,” in mixed medium and 24 x 18 inches, has an estimate of $110,000 to $150,00. The Le Roy Neiman’s estimate on “Wild Bill Davidson,” in oil and 38 x 48 inches, is $40,000 - $60,000.

You’ll remember that Jamie Wyeth is the third generation of an American painting dynasty. He is the son of Andrew Wyeth and grandson of N.C. Wyeth. Jamie is well known for his portraits, animals and landscapes.

Le Roy Neiman is one of the most recognizable contemporary artists in the country, known particularly for his quickly executed paintings and drawings for magazines which circulated throughout the world reflecting the excitement of the Olympic Games and a number of Super Bowls.

Morris and Whiteside are also offering work by a series of southern artists whose paintings we appreciate, and recognize and which carry estimates as approachable as $100 to $300. There are also works with estimates of $1000 to $6000.

“We’ve focused our attention on offering viewing and collecting opportunities for all levels of collectors and art enthusiasts,” said Morris. “We know there are those who look forward to the work of a number of very, very important artists. And we do have spectacular offerings by artists like Pino, Clark Hulings, Dean Mitchell and Donna Finley.”

SevOther artists include Guy Milligan, Dan MCaw, Mandy Johnson and Michael Harrell.

Be sure to see Ray Ellis, “Late Afternoon Oyster Roast,” 14 ¼ x 20 ½ inches which is absolutely stunning; Coby Whitmore’s, “Lowcountry View with Boat and Parasol,” in oil and 50 x 50 inches; Marge Parker’s “Four Women,” in oil and 46 x 64 inches; and Danielle DeMers’ “Figure Study-Female” in mixed medium and 30 ½ x 22 inches.

“Over the years we’ve expanded our auctions throughout the world,” said Whiteside. “Because of our internet bidding via www.invaluable.com, we are reaching an online bidding platform of some 9,600 collectors. Can you imagine, we have bids from Australia, Canada, Mexico, The Bahamas, France, turkey, Brazil the United Kingdom and all around the United States.”

This story was originally published September 28, 2016 at 11:47 AM with the headline "Hilton Head Art Auction offers art for every price range."