Founded by
Walter & Cathy Shannon
Legacy of Excellence
Black Crown Art Auctionsis Powered by E&S Gallery
Black Crown Art Auctions is the brain-child of founder Walter Shannon, whose years-long vision has come to fruition. Walter and his wife, Cathy Shannon, are co-owners of E&S Gallery, the Louisville-based fine art gallery established in 1989 and recognized as the largest Black-owned art and custom framing gallery in the United States by Forbes.com. For nearly 4 decades, the Shannons have built a national reputation for excellence, integrity, and expertise among artists, collectors, and cultural institutions.
At a time when some auction houses use the language of "Black Art" in their branding — or maintain departments dedicated to art by African American artists — none of these institutions are actually Black-owned. This absence of ownership has long contributed to disparities in representation, valuation, and equity for African American artists, gallerists, and collectors.
Black Crown Art Auctions was created to give collectors a real choice.
"There must be equity in the art world for African American artists, gallerists, and collectors. For decades, we have watched others profit from our culture without sharing ownership or decision-making power. Launching a Black-owned auction house is not only overdue — it is necessary."
— Walter Shannon, Founder of Black Crown Art Auctions
Recognition
A legacy of excellence
E&S Gallery — the Louisville fine art gallery behind Black Crown Art Auctions — has been recognized nationally since its founding in 1989.
Best Gallery in Kentucky
American Art Awards — every year since 2015
Top 25 Galleries in the U.S.
American Art Awards
America's oldest African-American owned fine art gallery
Founded by Walter Shannon, in business since 1989
Featured in Black Enterprise
Also profiled in Decor, Art Business News, Art Trends and Southern Living
Gallery of the Kentucky Derby Grand Gala
Named gallery of the Grand Gala and other high-profile events
Seasonal presence in Martha's Vineyard & the Hamptons
Exhibitions and art events with African American artists
Questions
Frequently asked questions
What is the best Black-owned art auction house?
Black Crown Art Auctions is the only active Black-owned fine art auction house in the United States. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, it was founded by Walter and Cathy Shannon and is powered by E&S Gallery, in business since 1989.
Where can I buy authentic African American art?
Black Crown Art Auctions offers authentic African American fine art through live and virtual auctions and a Buy Now catalogue — original paintings, signed numbered prints, and bronze sculpture — backed by E&S Gallery's nearly four decades of expertise.
What is the largest African American owned art gallery?
E&S Gallery in Louisville, Kentucky — founded in 1989 by Walter and Cathy Shannon — is recognized as the largest African American owned and operated fine art and custom framing gallery in the United States, and is the parent gallery of Black Crown Art Auctions.
Who is Walter Shannon of E&S Gallery?
Walter Shannon is the founder of Black Crown Art Auctions and co-owner, with his wife Cathy Shannon, of E&S Gallery — America's oldest African-American owned fine art gallery, established in Louisville, Kentucky in 1989.