NEW YORK, Nov. 1, 2019 /PRNewswire/ — Sotheby’s Home today announced it will be the exclusive seller of the Haas Brothers’ latest art project, Microfreaks, a series of limited-edition, handcrafted beaded sculptures. Devised in the Haas Brothers’ irreverent and colorful style, the Microfreaks are also shifting the social paradigm in the small town of Lost Hills in California’s Central Valley, where the sculptures are made.
Since 2010, twin brothers Nikolai and Simon Haas have spurned arbitrary artistic boundaries and hierarchies, creating sculptural works of art that blur the lines between design, art, and craft. The Microfreaks were born out of a unique collaboration between the Haas Brothers and a group of talented women in the humble agricultural town of Lost Hills at the southern end of California’s Central Valley. Known as the Haas Sisters, these women trained with the Haas Brothers and quickly learned the complex beading techniques to create these unique sculptures. The project was the brainchild of philanthropist and entrepreneur Lynda Resnick, who has been a driving force behind community development efforts in the region.
“This project is some of the most rewarding work of my life. It’s just extraordinary to see what happens when talented, dedicated people like the Haas Sisters are given the opportunity to thrive,” said Lynda Resnick, vice chair and co-owner of The Wonderful Company. “I hope others will be inspired to work with these wonderful artisans, whose collaboration with the Haas Brothers has led to such magically inventive results.”
Sotheby’s Home will share this remarkable project with its art-devoted fan base. Retailing at $1,500 each, Microfreaks are now available for purchase with 25 percent of sales benefiting the community of Lost Hills.
“We are thrilled that Sotheby’s Home will be the exclusive seller of the Haas Brothers’ Microfreaks,” said John Auerbach, executive vice president, art & objects and digital businesses at Sotheby’s. “The limited-edition collection showcases the inspiring collaboration between the Haas Brothers and the Haas Sisters of Lost Hills and exemplifies the way art can provide creative outlets and opportunities for people around the world.”
The Haas Sisters have forged deep and lasting bonds with each other, strengthening relationships and fostering a strong sense of community within Lost Hills. Many of the women have become significant wage earners in their families, gaining power and autonomy at home. They have begun paying off debts, saving for their children’s education, and feeling a sense of confidence and pride they’ve never experienced before.
“As artists, we strive to help people discover beauty in unexpected places. That is exactly what Lynda Resnick did for us when she introduced us to the amazingly talented women of Lost Hills,” commented designers Simon and Nikolai Haas. “This vibrant community has made immeasurable contributions to our work and lives, and we are excited to be able to share this special collaboration through Sotheby’s Home.”
The Haas Sisters are learning additional techniques in beading and weaving as the Haas Brothers expand their aspirations and their product lines. To learn more about Microfreaks, please visit https://sothebyshome.com/microfreaks.