ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Bonhams' British.Cool. Sale Highlights School of London Artists

market-auction · 2026-04-28

On 23 April 2026, Bonhams New Bond Street conducted an online auction named 'British. Cool. Featuring Etched Lives | School of London.' This event highlighted British art, culture, music, and fashion from the 20th century to the present, with an emphasis on the School of London, showcasing renowned artists like Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon, Frank Auerbach, and David Hockney. The auction aligned with the National Portrait Gallery's significant exhibition 'Lucian Freud: Drawing into Painting' (12 February – 3 May 2026), allowing collectors to delve into Freud’s artistry. Carolin von Massenbach, Head of Prints & Multiples, remarked that the annual auction featured a thoughtfully curated collection of artworks reflecting British creativity since the 20th century.

Key facts

  • Bonhams New Bond Street held an online auction on 23 April 2026.
  • The sale was titled 'British. Cool. Featuring Etched Lives | School of London'.
  • It celebrated British art, fashion, music, and culture from the 20th century to the present.
  • The auction emphasized the School of London, including Lucian Freud, Francis Bacon, Frank Auerbach, and David Hockney.
  • The auction coincided with the National Portrait Gallery's exhibition 'Lucian Freud: Drawing into Painting' (12 February – 3 May 2026).
  • Carolin von Massenbach, Head of Prints & Multiples, commented on the sale.
  • The sale was described as an annual event.
  • The auction took place at Bonhams New Bond Street.

Entities

Artists

  • Frank Auerbach
  • Lucian Freud
  • Francis Bacon
  • David Hockney

Institutions

  • Bonhams
  • National Portrait Gallery

Locations

  • London
  • United Kingdom

Sources