The 76th SBI Art Auction: A Showcase of Modern and Contemporary Art

SBI Art Auction Co., headquartered in Koto, Tokyo, will hold the 76th SBI Art Auction, focusing on modern and contemporary art on January 24 and 25, 2026. As the year draws to a close and the promise of a new season becomes palpable, this auction represents a fitting entry into the new year with an impressive array of approximately 500 artworks, ranging from masterpieces that laid the foundations of modern art to contemporary pieces by today’s leading creative talents.

A Journey Through Art

The curated selection is designed to guide viewers into a contemplative state, encouraging them to reflect on the year ahead and discover new encounters in art. In particular, a highlight of the auction will be Yayoi Kusama’s iconic Infinity Nets series with a captivating F50 canvas piece. Kusama's pursuit of the act of “repetition,” a theme that permeates her early work, is beautifully manifested in the grid-like structure that changes its appearance depending on the viewer's distance, creating a dynamic sense of depth.

Another standout piece is Yoshitomo Nara's I’m Starved (2001), which portrays a gentle emotion within a simple composition that captures the subtlety of desire. The title's implication of “hunger” contrasts with the calm expression of the depicted subject, who gazes back at the viewer, blurring the lines between human and canine.

Ginjiro Inokuma’s Map and Color (1964) exemplifies the vibrancy characteristic of his mature period, resonating with the colorful dynamism central to post-war Japanese modernism. This artwork's evolving hues strike a harmony with the optimism of the new year.

International Artistic Presence

The auction will also feature works by artists who command significant recognition in the international market. For instance, Kohei Nawa’s Jean-Michel Basquiat No.10 (2020) demonstrates a vigorous brushing technique paired with rich color layering, embodying both respect for and dialogue with its subject. Another important work is Keisuke Imaizumi’s Red Lines (2021), which challenges the boundaries between photography, painting, and digital art through its unique layering technique, reflecting the richness and complexity of contemporary visual culture.

Additionally, a remarkable collaboration features KAWS and the Brazilian Campana Brothers in KAWS: Monster (Sofa) (2019). This unique creation merges art with functionality, representing a cultural shift wherein contemporary art seamlessly integrates with everyday life.

An Invitation to Discover

This auction is perfectly tailored for discerning art collectors and those newly exploring the world of fine art. The diverse lineup promises fresh discoveries and enriching experiences as attendees engage with a wide array of works that speak to the upcoming year. Through the preview and auction events, participants have the opportunity to experience the current landscape of modern and contemporary art and its multifaceted expressions.

Event Overview

- Title: 76th SBI Art Auction | Modern and Contemporary Art
- Auction Date: January 24, 2026, from 12:00 PM & January 25, 2026, at 11:00 AM
- Venue: Hillside Forum, 1F, 18-8 Sarugakucho, Shibuya, Tokyo, 150-0033

Preview Details

- Preview Dates: January 21 to January 25, 2026
- Location: Same as auction

Participation Methods

Attend in person, bid by phone, submit written bids, or participate via online auction. Live streaming of the auction will be available on YouTube.

Highlighted Works

An online catalog will be available starting January 5, 2026, showcasing featured artworks.

About SBI Art Auction

Focusing on contemporary and modern art, along with photographs, design, and craft, SBI Art Auction offers a public auction designed to enhance your lifestyle with exceptional pieces. With clientele from 63 countries, about half of the total bids come from overseas, showcasing the auction’s international appeal. We actively present works from internationally renowned artists not commonly found in domestic auctions, contributing to the growth and expansion of Japan's art market.

Future Auction Schedule

- 77th SBI Art Auction: March 14-15, 2026
- 78th SBI Art Auction: May 22-23, 2026
- 79th SBI Art Auction: May 29-30, 2026

Contact Information

SBI Art Auction Co., Ltd.
CEO: Tomohiro Fujiyama
Address: 3-6-11 Ariake, Koto, Tokyo 135-0063
Established: April 1, 2011

Participate in this opportunity to engage with art that celebrates both tradition and artistic innovation!