Walter and Cathy Shannon have introduced Black Crown Art Auctions, the only active Black-owned and Black-operated fine art auction house in the United States. Launched in February at the 18th Annual Harlem Fine Art Show, the platform is designed to expand equity, visibility, and long-term legacy for African American artists, collectors, and gallerists.
The Shannons are already established figures in the art world through E&S Gallery, their Louisville-based gallery founded in 1989. Over time, the business has grown from a modest retail space into a major downtown property, reflecting decades of steady expansion and deep industry experience.
The couple says Black Crown is built around a clear idea: collecting can also be an act of preservation. Their approach combines auctions, education, and artist advocacy, with an emphasis on helping buyers understand provenance, value, and artistic context. They also aim to support artists directly and strengthen trust across the market.
The first auction is planned for August in Martha's Vineyard and will feature work including pieces by Harlem Renaissance artists. Future sales are expected to take place both online and in gallery settings, with additional cities under consideration.
For the Shannons, the project is not only about business growth but also about widening access and setting a new standard for representation in fine art sales. If successful, Black Crown could help shape a more inclusive and informed future for the auction world.