Gertrude Abercrombie, Strange Shadows, © 2018 Karma Books, New York
Gertrude Abercrombie's name conjures images of mystery and surrealism in the world of art. Born in 1909, she was raised in a strict Christian Scientist household and navigated a tension between her upbringing and her developing artistic inclinations. She was highly encouraged to pursue writing but she chose the path of visual art.
Abercrombie's paintings are rich in symbolism and they continue to captivate art collectors and enthusiasts alike, thereby providing a unique window into the artist's soul and the era she encapsulated.
Themes and Symbolism
While familiar landscapes, interiors, and figures populate her work, Abercrombie's art delves deeper, exploring a universe of personal symbolism and psychological introspection. Here are some key themes:
1. Surreal Landscapes and Dreamlike Atmospheres: Despite her vibrant social life, many paintings depict solitary figures in sparsely furnished interiors or barren landscapes. These portrayals could reflect inner struggles with isolation, self-doubt, or the search for connection.
2. The Moon and Celestial Elements: The moon is a frequent motif in Abercrombie's work, which symbolizes various aspects of the human experience – mystery, femininity, and the cyclical nature of life. Its presence adds a layer of mysticism and depth to her paintings.
3. Transformation and Introspection: The recurring symbol of the staircase, leading upward and into unknown spaces, suggests a yearning for personal growth and transformation. The use of masks and costumes might further signify a desire to explore different facets of identity.
4. Self-Representation and Identity: Abercrombie's self-portraits often feature her in different roles and settings, exploring facets of her identity. These representations go beyond physical likeness, delving into the realms of the psychological and the fantastical.
5. Feminist Messages and Social Commentary: Many figures depict defiance of societal expectations, challenging traditional gender roles. Prevalent ambiguity allows viewers to bring their own interpretations, fostering active engagement and individual reflection.
Gertrude Abercrombie, White Horse, 1938
Abercrombie's Legacy and influence
Gertrude Abercrombie's legacy extends beyond her captivating and enigmatic paintings, reaching into the Chicago art scene and inspiring future generations of artists. Here's a closer look at her enduring impact:
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"Queen of Bohemian Artists": Her vibrant parties and gatherings at her Hyde Park home brought together renowned figures like Dizzy Gillespie and Thornton Wilder, fostering artistic exchange and community.
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Supporter of Local Talent: She actively promoted and exhibited other Chicago artists, contributing to the city's flourishing art scene.
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Impact on Chicago's Surrealism: Her unique blend of personal symbolism and dreamlike imagery helped shape the Midwestern Surrealist movement.
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Inspiration for the Hairy Who: This group of Chicago artists drew inspiration from her use of humor, satire, and unexpected juxtapositions in their own work.
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Several collections and museums have works by Gertrude Abercrombie in their permanent collections. Here are some notable ones:
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The Art Institute of Chicago: This museum holds the largest collection of Abercrombie's work, with over 30 paintings, drawings, and prints. Some notable pieces include "Fruit Compote" (1938), "Encampment (White Mountain)" (1948), and "The Pink Tent" (1954).
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Whitney Museum of American Art, New York: The Whitney holds several of Abercrombie's surrealist paintings, including "Shell and Drape" (1952) and "Four Doors" (1957).
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Private Collections: Many of Abercrombie's works remain in private collections, occasionally appearing in exhibitions and auctions.
Gertrude Abercrombie, Girl searching, 1945
art market of Abercrombie’s Works
Gertrude Abercrombie's artworks have established a notable presence in the auction world, illustrating her ascending profile in the art market. Known for their distinctive fusion of surrealism and personal narrative, her pieces have attracted considerable attention, securing high prices at auctions.
Featured prominently in esteemed auction houses such as Sotheby's and Christie's, Abercrombie's paintings have commanded remarkable sale prices. In 2023, an impressive 70% of her artworks sold exceeded the high estimates, signaling a robust demand for her creations.
There has been a significant upward trend in the market value of Abercrombie's art. Between 2021 and 2022, the median auction price of her works saw a dramatic increase, leaping from $55,000 to $125,000. This upward trajectory was sustained in 2023, with a median sale price stabilizing around $100,000. The pinnacle of this trend was the sale of her piece Untitled (Woman with Tethered Horse and Moon), 1947 at Hindman Auction in December 2022, fetching an impressive $437,500.
Gertrude Abercrombie, Untitled (Woman with Tethered Horse and Moon), 1947
Such record-setting sales not only demonstrate the financial promise in acquiring her work but also affirm her pivotal role in American art history. When compared to peers with similar standing and aesthetic influences, it becomes evident that Abercrombie's market possesses significant growth potential.
Abercrombie's increasing popularity is reflective of a larger movement within the art market, where there's a growing interest among collectors in female artists, Surrealism, and Chicago art history. Moreover, she has a strong sell-through rate. In the last 3 years, over 95% of Abercrombie's works offered at auction have been sold, indicating strong market demand.
The auction triumphs of Gertrude Abercrombie's art not only celebrate her lasting legacy but also highlight the escalating acknowledgment of her impact on American art. For art collectors and investors, these artworks offer more than just ownership of a piece of art history; they present an opportunity for potential financial gain and appreciation.
