Chris DeRubeis Art Value: Comprehensive Guide to Abstract Sensualism on Metal

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The secondary market for DeRubeis artwork shows consistent demand, with most pieces maintaining or appreciating in value over time. This stability suggests that DeRubeis’ work has established a reliable collector base, an important consideration for those viewing the artwork as an investment.

It’s worth noting that prices at galleries and direct from the artist’s studio typically exceed auction prices, often by a significant margin. Gallery pricing for new DeRubeis works typically starts around $2,500 for smaller pieces and can reach $25,000 or more for major installations.

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Market trends indicate growing interest in DeRubeis’ more experimental and large-scale works, particularly those featuring unusual metal substrates or complex multi-panel compositions. This trend suggests potential for increased value appreciation in these categories.

<span>Authentication and Identification</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Proper authentication is crucial when assessing the value of Chris DeRubeis artwork. Learn how to identify genuine pieces and avoid potential forgeries.</div>

Authenticating Chris DeRubeis artwork requires attention to specific details that are characteristic of his work. Here are the key elements to consider:

Signature Techniques

Genuine DeRubeis artworks exhibit distinctive features from his unique process:

1. Metal Grinding Patterns: Authentic works show DeRubeis’ characteristic grinding marks, which create the foundation for his pieces. These patterns are typically fluid and organic, rather than mechanical or uniform.

2. Chemical Reactions: The interaction between chemicals and metal creates unique color patterns that cannot be exactly replicated. These reactions produce organic, flowing forms with depth and luminosity.

3. Surface Texture: DeRubeis’ works feature a complex topography that interacts with light. This texture is integral to the artwork, not merely superficial.

Documentation and Provenance

Authentic DeRubeis artwork should be accompanied by:

1. Certificate of Authenticity: Usually issued by the gallery representing the artist, such as Park West Gallery or his Key West gallery.

2. Gallery Documentation: Sales receipts, exhibition catalogs, or other documentation from authorized galleries.

3. Photographic Record: Many authorized galleries maintain photographic records of DeRubeis works they’ve sold.

Red Flags for Potential Forgeries

Be cautious of:

1. Inconsistent Techniques: Forgers may attempt to imitate DeRubeis’ style but typically lack the technical expertise to recreate his complex processes accurately.

2. Suspicious Pricing: If a “DeRubeis” is offered at a price significantly below market value without a clear reason, this may indicate a forgery.

3. Vague Provenance: Sellers unable or unwilling to provide clear documentation of a work’s history may be selling inauthentic pieces.

4. Poor Quality Materials: DeRubeis uses high-quality metal substrates and finishing materials. Lower-quality materials may indicate a forgery.

For significant purchases, consider consulting an art appraiser with expertise in contemporary art or, ideally, familiarity with DeRubeis’ work specifically. The investment in professional authentication can save considerable money and disappointment.

<span>Chris DeRubeis Art as an Investment</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Evaluating the investment potential of DeRubeis artwork requires considering both market trends and the artist&rsquo;s position in contemporary art.</div>

Considering Chris DeRubeis artwork as an investment requires evaluating several factors that affect long-term value potential:

Market Position and Recognition

DeRubeis has achieved significant recognition, including winning the MUSE Award for “New Movement” in 2005. This institutional recognition helps establish his place in contemporary art history and supports the long-term value of his work.

His representation by established galleries, including Park West Gallery and his own Key West gallery, provides market stability and consistent promotion of his artistic brand. This gallery support helps maintain collector interest and market presence.

Supply and Uniqueness

The labor-intensive nature of DeRubeis’ technique naturally limits his output, creating scarcity value. Each piece is inherently unique due to the unpredictable chemical reactions on metal and hand-grinding techniques, further enhancing collectibility.

Collector Base and Market Demand

DeRubeis has developed a dedicated collector base, with some collectors focusing specifically on his work. This dedicated following helps create a stable secondary market.

The distinctive visual appeal and interactive nature of his artworks—changing appearance with lighting and viewing angle—creates lasting viewer engagement, supporting continued collector interest.

Practical Investment Considerations

When considering DeRubeis art as an investment:

1. Focus on Signature Works: Pieces that exemplify DeRubeis’ most distinctive techniques and styles typically hold value better over time.

2. Condition is Crucial: The metallic surfaces can be vulnerable to damage if not properly cared for. Investment pieces should be in excellent condition with no significant damage or restoration.

3. Complete Documentation: Maintain all certificates of authenticity, purchase receipts, and provenance documentation. These materials significantly impact resale value.

4. Insurance and Display: Insure valuable pieces appropriately and display them away from direct sunlight and humidity, which can damage the chemical finishes and protective coatings.

5. Long-Term Perspective: Art investments typically require a 5-10 year holding period or longer to realize significant appreciation.

While past performance doesn’t guarantee future results, auction data indicates stability in DeRubeis’ market with potential for modest appreciation, particularly for significant or unusual pieces. For serious investors, diversifying across multiple DeRubeis works or combining with other artists may be prudent.

<span>Caring for DeRubeis Artwork</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving both the aesthetic quality and investment value of DeRubeis metal artworks.</div>

Chris DeRubeis’ metal artworks require specific care to maintain their distinctive appearance and value:

Cleaning and Maintenance

1. Gentle Cleaning: Use only a clean, soft microfiber cloth for regular dusting. For more thorough cleaning, a slightly damp microfiber cloth may be used, followed immediately by drying with a clean, dry cloth.

2. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Never use metal polishes, abrasive cleaners, or alcohol-based products on DeRubeis artwork. These can damage the protective coatings and chemical finishes.

3. Professional Cleaning: For significant cleaning needs, consult a professional art conservator familiar with contemporary metal art.

Display Considerations

1. Lighting: While DeRubeis’ work is designed to interact with light, avoid placing pieces in direct sunlight, which can cause fading and damage to the chemical finishes over time. Adjustable gallery lighting can enhance the interactive qualities of the artwork.

2. Environmental Factors: Maintain relatively stable temperature and humidity levels. Extreme fluctuations can affect the metal substrate and protective coatings.

3. Mounting and Installation: Due to the weight of metal artworks, ensure proper mounting using appropriate hardware anchored to wall studs or solid masonry. Consider professional installation for larger pieces.

Long-Term Preservation

1. Protective Coatings: DeRubeis applies special protective coatings to his artwork. If these appear to be degrading, consult a professional conservator rather than attempting repairs.

2. Documentation: Maintain all certificates of authenticity, purchase receipts, and care instructions in a safe location. These materials not only establish provenance but may contain specific care recommendations.

3. Insurance: Due to the unique nature and value of DeRubeis artwork, ensure pieces are properly insured against damage or theft. Consider specialized art insurance policies for significant collections.

4. Professional Assessment: Every few years, consider having valuable pieces professionally assessed for condition issues that might require attention.

Proper care not only preserves the aesthetic appeal of DeRubeis’ artwork but also helps maintain its investment value. The unique interaction between light and the metal surface—a hallmark of DeRubeis’ work—depends on preserving the integrity of both the textured metal and its protective finishes.

<span>Where to Buy and Sell DeRubeis Art</span>

<div class="section-header__body">Navigate the market for buying and selling Chris DeRubeis artwork with confidence by understanding the available channels and their advantages.</div>

Whether you’re looking to purchase your first DeRubeis piece or sell from your collection, understanding the available markets is essential:

Primary Market: Galleries and Direct Sales

1. Authorized Galleries: Several galleries represent DeRubeis, with Park West Gallery being among the most prominent. These galleries offer new works directly from the artist, typically with certificates of authenticity and full documentation.

2. DeRubeis Fine Art Gallery: The artist’s own gallery in Key West, Florida, offers original works and provides direct connection to the artist and his studio.

3. Art Fairs and Exhibitions: DeRubeis’ work is occasionally featured at contemporary art fairs and special exhibitions, offering opportunities to acquire pieces while viewing them in person.

Secondary Market: Auctions and Resellers

1. Auction Houses: Traditional auction houses occasionally feature DeRubeis works. As seen in our auction results section, houses like J. James Auctioneers, Bradford’s, and Artemis Gallery have sold DeRubeis pieces.

2. Online Auction Platforms: Websites like Invaluable, eBay, and LiveAuctioneers regularly feature DeRubeis works, though authentication can be more challenging in these venues.

3. Art Brokerage Firms: Companies specializing in secondary market art sales can help connect sellers with potential buyers, often handling authentication and documentation.

4. Private Sales: Collector-to-collector sales occur through private networks and connections, sometimes facilitated by galleries or consultants.

Considerations When Buying

1. Authentication: Always verify authenticity through proper documentation and, if necessary, expert consultation.

2. Condition Assessment: Carefully examine the condition of the artwork, particularly the integrity of the metal surface and protective coatings.

3. Price Comparison: Research comparable recent sales to ensure fair pricing, especially in secondary market transactions.

4. Return Policies: Understand the seller’s return policy in case authentication or condition issues arise after purchase.

Considerations When Selling

1. Timing: The market for contemporary art can fluctuate. Consider current market conditions and recent comparable sales when timing your sale.

2. Documentation: Assemble all available provenance documentation, including certificates of authenticity, purchase receipts, and exhibition history.

3. Commission Structure: Understand the commission or fee structure when working with galleries, brokers, or auction houses.

4. Reserve Prices: For auction sales, consider setting appropriate reserve prices to protect your investment.

For significant transactions in either direction, consulting with an art advisor or appraiser familiar with DeRubeis’ work can provide valuable guidance and potentially save substantial money through proper valuation and negotiation.

DeRubeis' art derives its value from several factors. His innovative "Abstract Sensualism®" technique involving metal substrates, chemical reactions, and power tools creates unique pieces that cannot be exactly replicated. His recognition in the art world, including winning the 2005 MUSE Award for "New Movement," established his historical significance. The labor-intensive process naturally limits his output, creating scarcity. Finally, the interactive nature of his work—changing appearance with different lighting and viewing angles—creates lasting engagement that supports collector interest and market value.

Authentic DeRubeis artworks exhibit distinctive features including characteristic grinding patterns, unique chemical reactions creating organic color patterns, and complex surface textures that interact with light. Look for the artist's signature, typically on the back or edge. Legitimate pieces should come with a certificate of authenticity from an authorized gallery like Park West or his Key West gallery. Clear provenance documentation adds further verification. For significant purchases, consider consulting an art appraiser with expertise in contemporary art or DeRubeis' work specifically.

Based on recent auction data and gallery pricing, DeRubeis' work spans a wide price range. At auction, original pieces typically sell for $1,000-$1,500. Gallery prices are generally higher, with smaller pieces (up to 24"×24") ranging from $1,000-$3,000, medium pieces from $3,000-$7,000, and large single panels over $7,000. Multi-panel works like diptychs and triptychs can reach $8,000-$20,000, while special commissions and installations may exceed $30,000. Prices vary significantly based on size, complexity, materials used, and provenance.

DeRubeis art shows potential as an investment with some caveats. Positive factors include his established recognition (including the 2005 MUSE Award), representation by established galleries providing market stability, limited output due to labor-intensive techniques, and a dedicated collector base. However, like all art investments, collectors should maintain a long-term perspective (5-10 years minimum), focus on signature works that exemplify his distinctive style, ensure proper documentation, and maintain pieces in excellent condition. While auction data indicates market stability, art should typically be viewed as a passion investment rather than purely financial.

DeRubeis artwork can be purchased through authorized galleries (with Park West Gallery being prominent), the artist's own DeRubeis Fine Art Gallery in Key West, contemporary art fairs, auction houses, online auction platforms like Invaluable and LiveAuctioneers, art brokerage firms, and private sales. When buying, prioritize authentication, condition assessment, and price comparison. When selling, assemble all provenance documentation, understand commission structures, consider market timing, and for auction sales, set appropriate reserve prices. For significant transactions, consulting with an art advisor familiar with DeRubeis' work is recommended.

Proper care is essential for preserving both appearance and value. Clean using only soft microfiber cloths—slightly damp if necessary—and avoid harsh chemicals, especially metal polishes or alcohol-based products. Display away from direct sunlight while using adjustable lighting to enhance the interactive qualities. Ensure proper mounting with hardware anchored to wall studs due to the weight of metal artworks. Maintain stable temperature and humidity levels. If protective coatings appear to degrade, consult a professional conservator rather than attempting repairs. Keep all documentation in a safe location and consider specialized art insurance for valuable pieces.

DeRubeis employs a complex, multi-step process. He begins with metal substrates (aircraft-grade aluminum, copper, brass, or precious metals) which he textures using various power tools to create unique grinding patterns. He then applies chemicals that react with the metal to produce color patterns, manipulating these reactions using fire, ice, and other elements. Additional pigments may be added for specific effects. Finally, protective urethane coatings are applied to preserve the artwork and enhance its interaction with light. This labor-intensive process ensures each piece is unique, as the chemical reactions cannot be precisely controlled or replicated.

While DeRubeis primarily creates unique original works, he has occasionally released limited edition pieces through authorized galleries. These editions are typically smaller versions of his signature styles or specially created designs produced in strictly controlled numbers. Limited editions are generally more affordable than original works while still offering authentic DeRubeis artistic elements. If considering a limited edition, verify the authenticity through proper documentation from an authorized gallery, confirm the edition number and total size, and ensure the piece maintains the characteristic features of DeRubeis' work including metal substrate and his distinctive techniques.

Invaluable's comprehensive database of Chris DeRubeis artwork sold at auction, providing historical price data and market trends for collectors and investors.

Art Brokerage offers a selection of DeRubeis works on the secondary market, with detailed descriptions of his metal painting techniques and material choices.

MutualArt provides comprehensive auction records for DeRubeis artwork, including realized prices across various auction houses worldwide.

Wyecliffe Galleries in the UK specializes in DeRubeis artwork, offering insights into his technique and current available pieces for European collectors.

The artist's official website showcasing his latest works, exhibition information, and gallery locations for viewing and purchasing original pieces.

1stDibs offers a curated selection of DeRubeis artworks from vetted dealers, with detailed provenance information and price transparency.

Conclusion: The Future of DeRubeis Art Value

Chris DeRubeis has established himself as an innovative contemporary artist whose unique approach to creating art on metal has garnered international recognition. His “Abstract Sensualism®” technique represents a significant contribution to contemporary art, blending elements of painting and sculpture in works that interact dynamically with light and viewing angle.

From a valuation perspective, DeRubeis’ work shows promising investment potential supported by institutional recognition, technical innovation, limited output, and a dedicated collector base. Recent auction results demonstrate a stable market with consistent pricing, while gallery sales indicate stronger pricing for significant works.

For collectors and investors, focusing on signature pieces that exemplify DeRubeis’ distinctive style while ensuring proper authentication and maintenance will likely yield the best long-term results. As with all art investments, a passion for the work itself should drive collecting decisions, with financial considerations as a secondary benefit.

As DeRubeis continues to evolve as an artist and expand his global presence, the market for his work has potential for growth, particularly for his most innovative and distinctive pieces. Whether as an aesthetic addition to your space or as part of a diversified art collection, Chris DeRubeis’ metal artwork represents a unique intersection of technical innovation and emotional resonance in contemporary art.

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