The search for the perfect work of art.  It can be a huge challenge given that beauty is most certainly in the eye of the beholder.  But for more than a decade, it’s a challenge that Amy Cappellazzo has met – and conquered.  As the Deputy Chairman of Christie’s Americas and the International Co-Head of Post-War and Contemporary Art, Cappellazzo has changed the face of contemporary art auctions across the world.  It’s far more than the Jackson Pollocks and Andy Warhols – Cappellazzo has played a role in helping hundreds of collectors, both veteran and novice, build their dream collections.

Post-War and Contemporary Art certainly seems to have weathered and even overcome the recent worldwide recession, as Cappellazzo says demand for the great works of art is stronger than ever.  On Sunday, April 17 at 2 p.m., Cappellazzo will be discussing how – and why – the international market has grown by almost 300 percent over the last decade.  The lecture, sponsored by Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, will take place at the Old High Middle School Auditorium, 406 NW 2nd Street in Bentonville.  There is no charge for admission and advance registration is not required, however, seating is limited so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.

As one of the premier experts in the field, some of Cappellazzo’s most prominent recent sales include an iconic Roy Lichtenstein painting for $42.6 million and an Andy Warhol work for $17 million.  Combined with other works, that one sale alone accounted for $400 million.

“The beauty of art is that it evokes differing responses from every viewer,” said Don Bacigalupi, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art executive director.  “Amy Cappellazzo’s deep appreciation of those responses, along with her extensive knowledge of art history and the market, is why she is one of the best in linking great works with collectors.  She can provide a new perspective on the art of art collecting – and the international market as a whole.”

About Crystal Bridges

The mission of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art is to welcome all to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites the power of art with the beauty of landscape. We explore the unfolding story of America by actively collecting, exhibiting, interpreting, and preserving outstanding works that illuminate our heritage and artistic possibilities.

Founded in 2005 by the Walton Family Foundation and set to open November 11, 2011, the Museum takes its name from a nearby natural spring and the bridge construction incorporated in the building design by world-renowned architect Moshe Safdie. A series of pavilions nestled around two creek-fed ponds will house galleries, meeting and classroom spaces, and a large, glass-enclosed gathering hall. Visitor amenities will also include a café on a glass-enclosed bridge overlooking the ponds and a Marlon Blackwell-designed museum store. Sculpture and walking trails will link the Museum’s 120-acre park and gardens to downtown Bentonville, Arkansas.

Crystal Bridges is currently building its permanent collection through the efforts of its professional staff as well as important gifts from private collectors such as Alice Walton and others. The collection features American masterworks dating from the Colonial era to contemporary times and will be on view to the public year-round. The Museum also will display a changing array of special exhibitions featuring art from museums and collections throughout the region, the nation and abroad.