In a momentous event for the Australian art world, sculptor Bronwyn Oliver’s monumental work “Tide” has shattered the national record for a sculpture sold at auction. The sinuous copper masterpiece fetched an astonishing $1 million (AUD) at a Sydney auction on Wednesday evening, far surpassing pre-sale estimates and cementing Oliver’s legacy as one of Australia’s most significant contemporary artists.
A Sculpture That Captivated a Nation
“Tide,” a breathtaking 4-meter-long creation, had graced the interior of upscale Sydney restaurant Quay for nearly 25 years. Commissioned by the Fink family in 2000, the sculpture’s fluid, organic forms became an iconic presence, even inspiring the restaurant’s logo. As anticipation mounted leading up to the auction, art aficionados speculated whether “Tide” would surpass Oliver’s previous record of $700,000, set just months earlier by her 2004 work “Sun.”
Fierce Bidding Drives Record-Breaking Sale
The auction room buzzed with excitement as “Tide” took center stage. Fierce bidding quickly pushed the price beyond the pre-sale estimate of $1-1.5 million, with determined collectors vying for the chance to own this piece of Australian art history. As the hammer fell, the crowd erupted in applause—Oliver’s masterpiece had achieved an unparalleled $1.25 million, including buyer’s premium.
“The sale of ‘Tide’ represents a defining moment in the Australian art market. This refined and spectacular composition showcases Oliver working at the height of her powers.”
Geoffrey Singer, Chairman of auction house Smith & Singer
The Allure of Bronwyn Oliver’s Sculptures
Bronwyn Oliver’s sculptures have long captivated art lovers with their innovative use of materials, exceptional beauty, and organic inspirations. Born in 1959, Oliver discovered her passion for sculpture at Sydney’s Alexander Mackie College. A transformative period studying in London in the early 1980s, amidst the rise of the “New British Sculpture” movement, further honed her unique artistic vision.
Oliver’s works, though highly sought-after during her lifetime, have seen a surge in demand since her untimely passing in 2006. Major exhibitions and documentaries have introduced her sculptural marvels to new audiences, driving fierce competition at the rare occasions her works appear at auction.
The Legacy of “Tide”
For the Fink family, parting with “Tide” was a bittersweet moment. The sculpture had been an integral part of Quay’s ambiance, admired by countless diners over the years. However, the family recognized the importance of sharing Oliver’s genius with the broader public. The record-breaking sale ensures that “Tide” will find a new home where it can be appreciated for generations to come.
As the Australian art community reflects on this historic auction, one thing is certain—Bronwyn Oliver’s legacy as a visionary sculptor will only continue to grow. With “Tide” now holding the title of Australia’s most valuable sculpture, the world eagerly awaits the next chapter in the story of this remarkable artist’s enduring impact.
