Modern + Contemporary Fine Art

Clars Auctions specializes in the appraisal and sale of exceptional modern and contemporary art and collections.

We offer fine art auctions that connect buyers and sellers from around the world, featuring a wide range of paintings, sculptures, photography, installations, and prints from both established and emerging artists. Whether you are looking to sell, expand your collection, or obtain an expert modern or contemporary art appraisal, our team provides professional guidance to ensure you maximize the value of your artwork.

What Is Modern Art?

Modern art generally refers to works produced from the late 19th century through the 1970s — a transformative period when artists began breaking away from traditional academic techniques and subjects. Rooted in innovation and a desire to reflect a rapidly changing world, modern art movements emphasized personal expression, experimentation, and abstraction.


Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Mick Jagger, 1975, the complete portfolio of ten (10) screenprints in colors on Arches Aquarelle paper, 43.5″ x 29″. Sold: $817,000
Andy Warhol (American, 1928–1987), Mick Jagger, 1975, the complete portfolio of ten (10) screenprints in colors on Arches Aquarelle paper, 43.5″ x 29″.
Sold: $817,000

At Clars, our modern art auctions highlight influential periods and styles, including:

What Is Contemporary Art?

Contemporary art refers to works from the late 20th century to the present day, encompassing various styles, mediums, and themes. Unlike classical or modern movements, contemporary artists often push boundaries by embracing innovative techniques, conceptual narratives, and experimental materials.


Loie Hollowell (American, b. 1983), Point of Entry (Blood-Orange Moon Over Orange Sac), 2017, oil paint, acrylic medium, sawdust on high density foam on linen mounted on panel, signed, titled and dated verso, 48″h x 36″w x 5″d. Sold: $1,050,000
Loie Hollowell (American, b. 1983), Point of Entry (Blood-Orange Moon Over Orange Sac), 2017, oil paint, acrylic medium, sawdust on high density foam on linen mounted on panel, signed, titled and dated verso, 48″h x 36″w x 5″d.
Sold: $1,050,000

Our specialists offer deep knowledge and market insight to help you confidently buy, sell, or receive an appraisal of contemporary and modern art. At Clars, our contemporary art auctions feature:

Sell Modern or Contemporary Art at Clars

Selling modern and contemporary art through Clars Auctions is a seamless process designed to help consignors achieve the best market results. Our team of art appraisers provides art valuations, ensuring accurate pricing based on market trends, provenance, and artist significance.

Our Selling Process:

Get A Valuation

Sale Highlights

Marc Chagall (French/Belarusian, 1887–1985), L’Hiver: Procession de Nöel - Les Quatre Saisons (Winter: Christmas Procession - The Four Seasons), 1974, gouache, tempera, pastel, India ink, colored pencils and graphite on paper, 63 cm x 90 cm (24.80″ x 35.43″). The authenticity of this work has been confirmed by the Marc Chagall Committee.
Sold: $220,500

CEO & President

Rick Unruh

Rick Unruh has been CEO and President of Clars since 2019 and Director of Fine Art since 2010. Under his leadership, Clars’ Fine Art department has had numerous world auction records, as well as, over a decade of consecutive record years of sales growth with over $150 million sold in the fine art division during his tenure. Among his notable achievements, Rick was responsible for the recent sale of Salvador Dali’s painting, Portrait of Mrs. Luther Greene, which sold for $720,000 as well as Loie Hollowell’s mixed media work, Point of Entry (Blood-Orange Moon Over Orange Sac), selling for $1,050,000. Prior to this, Rick was an institutional equities trader with several international investment banking firms in New York and Paris. Rick has established numerous client relationships with affluent collectors, corporations, museums, galleries, and dealers both in the U.S. and internationally. He has also been a regular guest commentator on several West Coast PBS television stations.

Consign with Rick

Associate Director, Fine Art

Alexa Malvino

Alexa Malvino has been with the company since 2014. Ms. Malvino received her Master’s in Art History from San Francisco State University, with a focus on printmaking, along with her Bachelor of Arts in the History of Art and Visual Culture from University California, Santa Cruz. Today, she manages the print multiples, photography, and contemporary art sales at Clars. Alexa is also one of the auctioneers at the gallery.

Consign with Alexa

Senior Specialist, Fine Art

Erin Cabral

Erin Cabral is a Senior Specialist in the Fine Art Department at Clars. She has worked in the auction industry for over a decade beginning her career at Bonhams in San Francisco where she was a cataloguer then specialist in the California and Western Paintings and Sculpture department. Prior to joining Clars, Erin was the Fine Art Specialist at Fine Estate Inc. She has also worked in fine art galleries, most recently at Berggruen Gallery in San Francisco. Erin received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Art History from the University of California, Davis.

Consign with Erin

Buy Modern or Contemporary Art at Clars

Acquiring modern or contemporary art through Clars Auctions is an exciting and accessible process. Our auctions feature sought-after works from globally recognized artists, emerging talents, and private collections.

Ways to Buy at Clars Auctions:

Ways to Buy

Explore Other Departments

While modern and contemporary fine art is a highlight at Clars, we specialize in other departments, including Asian art and antiques, trust and estate auctions, furniture and decorative arts, jewelry, and other collectibles. Our wide-ranging expertise ensures that every collector finds something unique and valuable at auction.

Contact Us

For inquiries, reach out to us. We look forward to assisting you with all your auction and appraisal needs! Whether you wish to preview contemporary artworks, attend an auction in person, or consult with our modern and contemporary art appraisal experts, we welcome you to visit.

About Clars

With decades of experience, Clars Auctions has become a cornerstone in the Bay Area auction community, known for our integrity, expertise, and commitment to excellence. We invite you to visit our Oakland gallery to learn more about our history, our team, and what makes us leaders in the industry.

Upcoming Auctions & Events

Stay updated on upcoming modern and contemporary fine art auctions, gallery previews, and special events. Whether you’re a buyer or seller, Clars Auctions offers opportunities to engage with the art market year-round.