Art, Life And The Other Things

Justin turner’s interest in auctioneering and friendship with David Boyd drew him into the world of Australian art, later thrusting him into the role of CEO of Menzies art brands.

- Jordan Murray

Having sold pieces by the likes of Jeffrey Smart and Brett Whiteley for more than a million dollars each, Menzies Art Brands’ reputation as one of Australia’s most prestigious art auction houses is storied. Founded in 1998 by Australian entrepreneur Rodney Menzies, its CEO Justin Turner tells The CEO Magazine that the business was established to build representation for Australian art at home and abroad.

“Rod has always had a strong affiliation with New York City and with international artists, and he’s pioneered sales in Australia,” Justin says. “We’ve sold work by the likes of Andy Warhol and Fernand Léger, and we’re always looking for high-value pieces. Although we’re competing with other, top-tier auction houses, nobody else offers the type of service in Australia that we do.”

Born and raised in South Africa, Justin’s interest in auctioneering stems from a childhood of being taken by his parents to small-scale auctions of general furniture, curios and knick-knacks. It was during this time he became captivated by the art of auctioneering. “That was where I would spend my pocket money, and I was always interested in the atmosphere of the events and seeing the bidding process in action.”