Embracing July: Tracey Emin, A Dame of Unyielding Expression

In celebration of newly minted Dame Tracey Emin, Johan Nélson is excited to highlight her remarkable achievements as a Dame of unyielding expression.

 

For collectors and enthusiasts of fine art, Tracey Emin stands as a figure of raw emotion, unfiltered expression, and vulnerability. 

 

Born on 3rd July 1963, Tracey Emin’s connection with her birth month is palable in her work. Full of warmth, intensity, and illumination, her pieces are known for their personal content and candid self-expression. 

 

Emin has spent decades challenging the boundaries of contemporary art. Now, as she celebrates her 61st birth month, Emin’s recent damehood awarded for services to British Art just last month, solidifies her place as a cornerstone of contemporary art.

10 Jul 2024

  • The Journey to Damehood: From Margate to Masterpiece

    Her rise to prominence began in the 1990’s as part of the Young British Artists (YBAs), a group known for their provocative works and commercial approach. The infamous piece, ‘My Bed’ (1998), sold for £2.5 million at auction with Christie’s, landing her into the public eye and laying bare the value in the rawness of human existence and unapologetic honesty. 

     

    After a courageous battle with cancer, Emin has had much to reflect upon. From facing the real possibility of death to becoming a dame, Emin’s resilience is showcased as much within her work as it is in her personal life.

     

    ‘I don’t just want to die being an artist that made really interesting work, I want to make a future.’ - Tracey Emin Studio Visit | Christie's 

    The journey from Margate to damehood is paved with resilience and defiance. Announced as part of the Kings 2024 birthday honours list, Emin’s damehood is a not only a testament to her significant contribution to contemporary art, but also recognition of the compelling narratives of Emin’s triumphant path and career as an artist.

     

  • Market Performance

    Market Performance

    For those looking to invest in her work, now is a significant time. Her market performance proves strong over the past 36 months. With 72 yearly lots sold, an impressive 90.4% sell-through rate, Emin’s works average a sale price of $54K, achieving 57% over estimate.

     

    The honor of a damehood often heralds a renewed interest in an artist’s portfolio, potentially enhancing the value of their pieces. With an unwavering approach to practice, and a commitment to the exploration of the human condition, Emin ensures her legacy will endure for years to come. 

  • Celebrating a Dame
    Tracey Emin, meeting the King and Queen at Buckingham Palace, May Garden Party, Credit: BBC, Harry Weller

    Celebrating a Dame

    As a newly minted dame, this month is an opportune moment for collectors to reflect on the extraordinary journey of Tracey Emin. From a seaside town to international acclaim, her journey and commitment to an authentic creative process, exemplifies the resilience and creativity that defines her art. Her ability to turn personal pain and subjective experience into universal narratives makes her work a fine addition to any collection. 

     

    As we honour her achievements and celebrate Tracey Emin this July, we also acknowledge the impact she has had on contemporary art, making her a true dame of unyielding expression.