#United States #Hillsborough #Contemporary Art #Leland Little #Pilloff Collection

Leland Little Auctions Sees Success with Pilloff Art Collection

On January 16, 2025, Leland Little Auctions took center stage by offering The Contemporary Art Collection of Francine and Benson Pilloff from Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The event turned out to be a significant success, yielding an impressive total of over $1.37 million, supported by enthusiastic bidders from around the globe.

The Pilloff collection is not just a collection of art; it is a lifetime of passion and commitment to contemporary art, showcasing a wide array of styles and mediums. The couple developed strong relationships with many artists whose works they collected, including notable names such as Dale Chihuly, Nick Cave, Richard Jolley, and many others. This personal connection enhanced the storytelling of each piece, making the auction even more special.

The auction featured a total of 224 lots, all achieving a remarkable 100% sales rate. Prior to the big day, an exclusive preview event allowed prospective buyers to immerse themselves in this world-class collection, mingling with the Pilloffs and Leland Little's Department Directors. Beginning at 10 AM, online bidding was made available through the Leland Little website, with excitement building as the event unfolded.

One of the standout pieces, Lost Image No. 15 by Colombian artist Olga de Amaral, captivated attendees, eventually selling for $324,000. De Amaral’s work has a prestigious history, having been featured in renowned galleries such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York and the Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris.

The auction also highlighted other exceptional works, including an installation by Richard Marquis titled Pilloff Installation Marquis Decade Archive Unit (1985-1995), which fetched $48,000. In addition, a beautiful cast glass sculpture by the duo Libensky and Brychtová called Signum 1 sold for $39,600. These results are a testament to not only the artistic quality of the pieces but also the Pilloffs' sharp eye for significant contemporary art.

Claire Fraser, Vice President of Estates and Consignments at Leland Little Auctions, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Pilloffs, stating, “We were honored to collaborate with the Pilloffs, whose journey as stewards of their collection evolved from meaningful conversations with artists to the heartfelt sharing of their passion with new owners.” This sentiment encapsulated the profound connection between collectors, artists, and the community, emphasizing the importance of cultivating relationships within the art world.

Leland Little Auctions has a longstanding reputation for expertly handling high-end collectibles, with over 25 years of experience ensuring trusted stewardship for both buyers and sellers. The success of this auction further solidifies their role as a leader in the contemporary art auction space.

For future opportunities to explore exceptional collections and participate in upcoming auctions, visit Leland Little Auctions.

Key Takeaways

• - Auction Date: January 16, 2025
• - Total Sales: Over $1.37 Million
• - Collection: The Contemporary Art Collection of Francine and Benson Pilloff

This auction not only showcased outstanding works of art but also highlighted the engaging and creative narratives that surround collection building, artist relationships, and the joy of sharing art within a community.