Christie's auction house is preparing a series of special sales for its annual Americana Week, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026. The upcoming auctions will feature an unexpected highlight: an oil painting by former President Jimmy Carter titled "The Hornet's Nest" from 2003. This revelation has surprised many art enthusiasts who were unaware of Carter's artistic talents beyond his well-known woodworking and humanitarian work. The painting will be offered alongside historic pieces including Gilbert Stuart's portrait of George Washington commissioned for James Madison and Grant Wood's original study for his iconic "American Gothic" from 1930. These selections underscore the auction house's focus on American cultural heritage during this milestone year.
In a striking contrast of presidential art activities, Donald Trump celebrated the New Year by hosting a live painting performance at his Mar-a-Lago estate. Christian worship artist Vanessa Horabuena created a blue-eyed portrait of Jesus Christ in just ten minutes while religious music played in the background. The finished painting was immediately auctioned off to attendees, ultimately selling for an impressive $2.75 million. This event highlights the intersection of politics, religion, and commercial art in contemporary American culture. The performance was covered extensively by Hyperallergic, drawing attention to the unique way political figures engage with the art market.
The international art world faced another scandal as Guy Wildenstein stepped down as president of Wildenstein & Co. after 35 years of leadership. His resignation follows his 2024 conviction in what French prosecutors described as one of the most sophisticated and long-running tax fraud schemes in modern French history. Despite the timing, Wildenstein maintains that his departure is unrelated to his legal troubles. The art dealing dynasty has been embroiled in controversy for years, with this latest development marking a significant turning point for the prestigious gallery. Critics have noted the irony of his statement, comparing it to suggesting the Titanic's sinking had nothing to do with icebergs.
Several important transitions have reshaped the gallery landscape in recent weeks. Julie Jones has been appointed as the new director of the Maison Européenne de la Photographie in Paris, bringing fresh leadership to the renowned photography institution. Meanwhile, acclaimed painter Amy Sillman has moved her representation from Gladstone Gallery to David Zwirner Gallery, one of the world's most powerful contemporary art dealers. In Los Angeles, emerging artist Kevin Umaña has joined the roster at The Pit gallery, signaling continued growth for the young artist's career. These moves reflect the constant evolution of artist-gallery relationships in the competitive contemporary art market.
Britain's honors system recognized several cultural leaders in the latest round of appointments. Tristram Hunt, director of London's Victoria & Albert Museum, received a knighthood from King Charles III for his contributions to the arts. Former museum director Ekow Eshun, art historian Marcia Pointon, and museum directors Janet Blake and Jo Quinton-Tulloch were all named Officers of the Order of the British Empire. Additionally, nonprofit director Susan Bowers received a Member of the Order of the British Empire designation, while charity director Hilary McGrady was awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire. These honors highlight the United Kingdom's commitment to recognizing excellence in cultural leadership.
The Mary L. Nohl Fund announced its latest fellowship recipients, supporting individual artists in Wisconsin. Established artists Evelyn Patricia Terry and Della Wells won awards in the Established Artist category, acknowledging their significant contributions to the regional art scene. In the Emerging Artist category, Nomka Enkhee, Laura Farahzad Mayer, and Yinan Wang received recognition and financial support for their promising work. The fellowships provide crucial funding that allows artists to continue developing their practice and contribute to their communities. These awards represent one of many initiatives supporting artists at different career stages across the United States.
