The 70th SBI Art Auction | Bloom Now

SBI Art Auction is pleased to announce “The 70th SBI Art Auction | Bloom Now”, taking place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at the Tokyo International Forum. Under the newly introduced title Bloom Now, the special auction will present a curated selection of masterpieces from legendary figures to contemporary visionaries shaping the art scene. As spring unfolds, we invite you to discover and celebrate the season through extraordinary art.

One of the auction highlights is The Little Thinker (No. YNF5386) by NARA Yoshitomo. While NARA’s works are often characterized by his iconic depictions of young girls, this sculpture is striking for its contemplative yet gentle expression, capturing a quiet moment of introspection. His artworks, which evoke memories and emotions from childhood, continue to receive high acclaim both in Japan and internationally, making this a must-see piece. Another standout lot is KUSAMA Yayoi’s Pumpkin, a monochrome acrylic on canvas featuring her signature motif. As one of the most anticipated pieces in the auction, this artwork is set to be the top lot with the highest estimate, showcasing Kusama’s timeless appeal. A significant figure in postwar Korean and Japanese art, LEE U-fan’s With Winds will also be featured in the auction. Following the presentation of works from the same series in the October 2024 auction, this piece, in an F30 horizontal format, showcases his masterful brushstrokes, creating a powerful yet serene visual experience.

The photography section will also be a key attraction, featuring Em Arena II, Amsterdam by Andreas GURSKY. This is a monumental work that resembles a painting in its meticulous composition and details, and these characteristics give viewers an overwhelming visual impact. Another highly anticipated work is Nastassja Kinski and the Serpent, Los Angeles, California, June 14 by Richard AVEDON.

Among the contemporary and modern highlights, a sculptural work by KATO Izumi will be presented. His distinctive forms, reminiscent of primordial life and nature’s organic silhouettes, resonate with an energy that is both ancient and timeless. Untitled by ROKKAKU Ayako features the artist’s signature girl motif set against a vivid red background. The contrast between the bright, lively colors and the enigmatic expression of the girl draws viewers into her unique artistic world. Additionally, Waterfall by SENJU Hiroshi is another piece to watch, elegantly capturing the dynamic yet meditative essence of flowing water, blending the traditional aesthetics of Japanese painting with a contemporary sensibility.

The auction will also highlight Cabeza, from Portfolio II by Jean-Michel BASQUIAT. This electrifying work captures the artist’s signature raw energy through its vivid colors and expressive brushwork. The central figure—characterized by wide eyes, an elongated neck, and intricately detailed lips—commands attention with a presence that is both abstract and deeply emotive.

How about welcoming the arrival of spring with an inspiring art experience? “The 70th SBI Art Auction | Bloom Now” will be held alongside Art Fair Tokyo, Japan’s premier art event. Join us for this exceptional opportunity to explore and acquire works from an outstanding lineup of artists at one of the year’s most anticipated auctions.


【Auction Date】
[Lot. 001-093] SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM (JST) -

【Venue】*No ticket for Art Fair Tokyo is required to enter.
Tokyo International Forum Hall D5
3-5-1 Marunouchi Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 100-0005, Japan >> Map

【Preview】
Tokyo International Forum Hall D7　*Different from the auction site on Sat, March 8
THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2025, at 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (JST)
FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025, at 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM (JST)
SATURDAY, MARCH 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (JST)

【Create an account】
Please sign up from the link below if you do not have an account to register as a bidder.
>> Create an account

【Participate in the bidding】
There are four bidding methods from which to choose.
A. In Person
B. Absentee
C. By Telephone
D. To Bid Live
>> How to Buy

To bid by phone, online, or as absentee, you can register from our website.
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Bid Submission Deadline:
[Lot. 001-093] FRIDAY, MARCH 7, 2025, at 5:00 PM (JST)
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【Dear participants】
We recommend participants to use public transportation as parking spaces at the venue are unavailble.
If you wish to visit by car, please consider using parking lots around the venue.
>> Map (Car parkings around the venue)

【Online Bidding】
You can bid with our Live Auction System.
>> Live Auction System
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【Live stream】
You can access our auction's live stream as below.
>> SBI Art Auction YouTube Streaming
※Live stream may be canceled without notice before or during the auction depend on network status.
※You might experience degradation of video/audio quality, depend on your device's capability, operating system, browser version, or network environment.