Did you know that Ethiopian-born artist Julie Mehretu made art history with her record-breaking auction achievements? In November 2023, her breathtaking abstract work, Walkers With the Dawn and Morning, sold for an astonishing $10.7 million at Sotheby’s in New York. This sale marked the highest price ever paid for a piece by an African-born artist at auction.
The painting, which blends ink and acrylic on canvas, draws inspiration from a 1920s Langston Hughes poem. Mehretu created it as part of a 2005 series reflecting on Hurricane Katrina’s devastating impact on New Orleans. Its intricate layers feature architectural sketches, vibrant colors, and calligraphic strokes, showcasing her signature style.
Photo Courtesy of SOTHEBY’S
This wasn’t Mehretu’s first record-breaking moment—she previously held the title when another of her works sold for $9.3 million just a month earlier. These sales reflect the growing global appreciation for contemporary African art, especially abstract works.
Mehretu’s journey is equally remarkable. Born in Ethiopia, she and her family relocated to the United States in 1977 amid political unrest. Over the years, she has become one of the most influential voices in modern art, celebrated for her ability to merge complex narratives with captivating visuals.
In addition to her auction success, Mehretu was selected to design BMW’s next Art Car, set to debut at the iconic 24 Hours of Le Mans race.
Julie Mehretu’s record-breaking achievements and global influence are a testament to the power of contemporary African art. Now you know!
