Strauss & co - Review 2024

72 73 CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT 2024 Artwork Reports Our in-house art specialists are able to provide an objective report containing as much information about an artwork and its provenance and condition as possible. In selected instances, we consult other experts on our seller’s or buyer’s behalf for additional, third-party insight into a particular work. We do eve- rything possible to vet each individual work offered for sale on both our online and live auctions. Auction Catalogues Our well-researched live sale catalogues are highly regarded in the art world for the integrity of the information and the quality of the images they contain, and as records of the sec- ondary market. Our catalogues are available as e-catalogues before a sale, allowing our clients to consider items they may be interested in during the pre-auction period, as well as for later research in the comprehensive catalogue library archive on our website. Knowledge Hub Our website provides a wealth of information and data for art buyers and sellers, artists, historians, academics, researchers and others. Our live auction and online auction Artists Lists pro- vide a comprehensive record of all works by individual artists sold through Strauss & Co. Each of our individual auctions (from 2009 onwards) has a gallery, a list of artists and works, the sale catalogue and results. Strauss Education – Master Classes and Lectures As a responsible and active corporate citizen, Strauss & Co takes its role in improving and sustaining the entire art ecosystem seriously. Introducing more people to art, educating the public about art, and promoting art and supporting artists underpin our Strauss Education programme. Included in our annual Edu- cation programme are lectures, master classes, exhibitions, art walkabouts, private viewings, school tours, corporate lectures, webinars, special events and partnerships. Our in-house spe- cialists and invited guest lecturers provide access to specialist information and expertise and increase the knowledge base of art enthusiasts and art world participants. Sponsorship and Partnerships Partnerships with established art fairs and institutions and highly impactful sponsorships are part of our commitment to growing and sustaining the art ecosystem. In recognition of this involvement, Strauss & Co won the Chairman’s Premier Award at the 21st annual BASA awards in 2018. A highlight of our focus on emerging artists is our involvement in the Cas- sirer Welz Award – a partnership between Strauss & Co and The Bag Factory Artists’ Studios that rewards emerging artists and showcases their talents to a broader audience. The award was established with Nadine Gordimer in honour of her husband, art dealer Reinhold Cassirer, and Strauss & Co in memory of our co-founder, Stephan Welz. It has played an important role in the careers of artists such as Blessing Ngobeni, Tshepo Mosopa, Nompumelelo Ngoma and Asanda Kupa. Charity Auctions We have a strong sense of social responsibility and, from time to time, we donate our inhouse expertise to selected charity auctions for organisations that share our core values.