Standard Station © Ed Ruscha 1966
Ed Ruscha
239 works
This buyer’s guide provides insights into Ed Ruscha’s artistic impact, the range of his printmaking techniques, and what to consider when collecting his works. From his iconic Standard Station series to experimental pieces with text and symbolism, we explore the nuances of Ruscha’s print market, authenticity tips, and how to make informed purchases.
Why Collect Ed Ruscha?
Collecting Ruscha prints diversifies a collection portfolio by adding pieces from an artist who has profoundly influenced Contemporary art, blending Pop Art, Conceptualism, and a distinct West Coast aesthetic. Ruscha’s work captures iconic American imagery and witty, text-based art that distills complex themes into simple phrases or images. He uses a unique approach, inspired by everyday objects or landscapes and blending them with typography creating prints that are culturally significant. Ruscha's popularity and acclaim begin in the 1960s with original works like Standard Station (1966) and Hollywood (1968) , intreoducing gas stations, street signs and commercial logos. As his popularity and critical acclaim continued to grow, his artistic versatility begin to span multiple media, including painting, drawing, photography, and printmaking. Ruscha’s prints offer not only a piece of Americana but also strong potential for appreciation, making them valuable additions to any collection.
Starting An Ed Ruscha Collection
Printmaking has been a central component of Ruscha's artistic practice, one he has maintained consistently throughout his career. His first major breakthrough, came with the artist’s book Twentysix Gasoline Stations (1963), which he published himself with The Cunningham Press in Alhambra, California. This collection, limited to an edition of 400 numbered copies, consists of black-and-white photographs of gas stations along the highway, capturing the iconic yet mundane aspects of American roadways. The book’s first edition, with numbered copies, holds particular value, as it was republished in two unnumbered editions.
This exploration of everyday American landscapes and consumerism carried into his Standard Station series (1966), which often used strong graphic lines to depict gas stations, a theme that would continue to evolve throughout Ruscha's work. With gas stations becoming one of his most recognised symbols, these prints are some of the highest valued in his body of work. In the upcoming November sales, Christie's will offer a canvas from this series valued at $50 million and consigned by Texas oil tycoon Sid Bass.
In later works, Ruscha experimented with language as a visual object, creating the Word Prints series in the 1970s and 1980s, where bold phrases like “Sin” and “News”, “Mews”, “Pews” challenge viewers to consider the power of text in art. These works can be acquired as individual prints or complete sets. The Mountain Series (1990s) combines natural landscapes with cryptic phrases, demonstrating Ruscha's shift toward a more layered and often ironic approach. In 2016 Gagosian Geneva dedicated a solo presentation to these works, which are based off of the 2010 paintings. Additionally, Ruscha's Hollywood series and Psycho Spaghetti Western series explore urban and cinematic themes, especially the mythos of Los Angeles and the American West.
Ruscha’s versatility extends into collections like the Course of Empire (2005), where he reflects on American expansion and decline, and the Books and Co. series, in which he examines books as objects and symbols. Collectors are drawn to Ruscha’s prints not only for their visual appeal but also for the artist’s clever commentary on contemporary culture, language, and urban life. This eclectic range of themes and subjects has made Ruscha's printwork an influential force in the world of contemporary art.
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Is Ed Ruscha A Good Investment?
Ruscha’s prints represent a compelling investment for several reasons, primarily due to his influential position in American Contemporary art and the versatility and appeal of his subject matter. As a key figure in the Pop Art movement, his market is well established, with a style that has attracted diverse collectors over time. His artworks have been exhibited globally for decades, and while his paintings often see returns, his market isn’t without fluctuations. However, this dynamic also creates opportunities for collectors, as his print portfolio offers options across a range of price points. From posters and offset lithographs at accessible prices to screenprints and lithographs that can exceed £60,000 at auction, there is room for various investment levels in Ruscha’s print market.
Ruscha’s innovative use of printmaking methods provides collectors with a broad selection of his artistic expressions, each resonating with his conceptual yet approachable style. Navigating his market can benefit from understanding auction cycles, demand dynamics, and the broader context of his work.
What Are Some Popular Ed Ruscha Prints Among Collectors?
Hollywood: Based on Ruscha’s 1980s paintings, this print establishes a dialogue between multiple mediums. Initially captured as a photograph, the image was later reinterpreted on canvas and then as a print. Ruscha was drawn to the visual power of printed words, alongside an idealised representation of landscape, place, and language. Created in a limited edition of 100 with only two artist proofs (APs) and several rare trial proofs, this piece is one of Ruscha’s most sought-after prints on the market.
Cold Beer Beautiful Girls: This lithograph, derived from Ruscha's 1993 canvas, is a limited edition of 60 with 14 artist proofs. Infused with pop, poetic, and conceptual elements, it captures a unique blend of Western humour, culture, and country song nostalgia. The words, originally seen on a sign outside an Oregon bar, add a raw authenticity that resonates with collectors, making this piece one of Ruscha’s most sought-after and highest-valued prints in the market.
Made In California: This screenprint presents it's enigmatic title set against a radiant, California-inspired backdrop. Bold and vivid, the minimalist aesthetic captures the warmth and allure of the sun with the subtle text adding depth to the work. Unlike many of Ruscha’s print works, this piece is a standalone print not derived from a painting. It is rarely seen at major public auctions and more recently has appeared at auction houses outside of Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and Phillips. With its visual appeal, this print ranks as one of the most sought-after in Ruscha’s oeuvre.
How To Authenticate Ed Ruscha Prints?
Ruscha is actively creating but does not verify the authenticity of his works personally, nor through an estate. The most authoritative resource for verifying legitimacy is his catalogue raisonné. This resource is an ongoing publication by Gagosian and serves as a comprehensive archive of Ruscha’s oeuvre. It currently includes seven volumes dedicated to his paintings, three for works on paper, and an additional publication focused on mixed media.
Other key details for authentication include verifying the artist’s signature, edition number, and the associated publisher. Notable publishers Ruscha has collaborated with include Tamarind Lithography Workshop, Cirrus Editions, Brooke Alexander Editions, and also Ruscha himself. Provenance, exhibition history, and documentation from past sales are also essential elements for verifying authenticity. If you have any doubts, it’s highly recommended to consult a professional with expertise in print markets and Ruscha's work.
How To Check The Condition Of An Ed Ruscha Print
To evaluate the condition of a Ruscha print, begin with a thorough inspection of both the front and back. Ask to see the print unframed and look for any discolouration, especially in areas where the print may have been exposed to light, as fading or colour changes can occur with prolonged UV exposure. Examine the paper for any signs of yellowing or foxing (small brown spots), which could indicate age-related deterioration or previous exposure to moisture. Creasing or wrinkling, especially around the edges, can occur if the print was improperly stored or framed.
It’s also crucial to check for signs of physical damage, such as tears, scratches, or abrasions on the surface. These are sometimes found in prints that were handled extensively or stored in less-than-ideal conditions. Look closely at the corners and edges, as these are areas prone to dents or bends from framing or careless handling. For screenprints or lithographs, examine the ink application for any signs of cracking or flaking, particularly if the print has been displayed for an extended period in varying temperatures or humidity levels. It is always advisable to consulting with a professional conservator or an art specialist who can provide additional assurance, especially if you’re considering a high-value purchase or want to assess the need for potential restoration.
Where Can I Buy An Ed Ruscha Print In 2024?
Whether you’re an established collector or interested in acquiring your first Ruscha print, partnering with a reliable source is key. There are several avenues to consider for finding Ruscha prints, including galleries, auction houses, and private sales. Gagosian gallery has been Ruscha's main representation, though additional reputable galleries specialising in secondary market works, such as Bernard Jacobson Gallery and Guy Hepner, also offer his pieces. Due to Ruscha's established market presence, his prints are available at major and smaller auction houses. While these sources are reputable, galleries and auction houses can charge premium fees that may reach 25%.
Ruscha’s works are also accessible through online marketplaces, including Artsy and artnet’s online auctions. At MyArtBroker, we offer a unique alternative via our global Trading Floor, which hosts an extensive network of buyers and sellers. Our team of specialists assist in locating your desired print outside peak auction season, streamlining the buying process. We ensure each print’s provenance, authenticity, and condition, providing a secure and informed purchase experience.
Looking To Buy Ruscha Prints?
Browse Ed Ruscha on the Trading Floor and sign up to MyPortfiolio Collection Management.
Why Use MyArtBroker To Buy Your First Ed Ruscha Print?
A Dedicated Expert
At MyArtBroker, we provide a seamless and trusted experience by directly connecting buyers with sellers through our online Trading Floor. We emphasise transparency, and our dedicated specialists work with our buyers to help find the desired print and ensure it aligns with fair market value based on market current trends. Ruscha’s prints can be an excellent way to diversify a collection, offering an iconic name from a pivotal Post-War artist who has significantly impacted the American art scene. Our team supports buyer's through every step of the process, from verifying provenance, confirming authenticity, conducting condition assessments, and organising shipping giving you the confidence you need in your purchase.
Our Network
With a growing network of over 30,000 collectors, dealers, and galleries, MyArtBroker is positioned to help you find sought-after works, even outside of peak auction seasons. Our website attracts over 75,000 monthly visitors, featuring updates on the latest market movements, auction results, and in-depth reports on Ruscha and other blue chip artists, making us a comprehensive resource for buying, selling, and staying informed on market trends.
Whether you’re in search of acquiring Ruscha prints or looking to sell, MyArtBroker offers a direct connection between trusted buyers and sellers for a streamlined experience.
Ed Ruscha
239 works
