Source: CTV News / Jones Auction House
October 2025 – Nova Scotia, Canada — The recent sale of The Two Black Cats by Everett Lewis has made international headlines, setting a world record for the highest auction price ever achieved for a painting by the Nova Scotia folk artist. The milestone underscores the growing appreciation for Maritime folk art and the enduring cultural legacy of both Everett and his wife, the celebrated Maud Lewis.
According to Jones Auction House, Everett’s oil painting Two Black Cats (1972) sold for $18,400, far exceeding its high estimate of $4,500. The painting was acquired directly from Everett by a private collector in 1972 and remained in their Nova Scotia collection for over fifty years.
“The Two Black Cats sale represents the highest recorded auction price worldwide for a painting by Everett Lewis, reflective of the growing recognition of Maritime folk artists within the broader Canadian art market,” Jones Auction House said in a statement.
Sarah Jones, curator and co-owner of the auction house, told CTV News Atlantic that Everett’s works typically sell in the $3,000–$5,000 range. “Because the Maud prices are quite high and inaccessible for some buyers, there is more of an interest in Everett,” she explained. “Interest in Everett’s work has grown, especially since the release of the 2016 film Maudie, which brought renewed attention to both artists’ lives and stories.”
The 2025 Fall Art & Luxury Auction featured a wide range of artwork and designer items from Atlantic Canadian collections, with multiple pieces by Maud Lewis also selling above their estimates. One of Maud’s paintings sold for $49,450, nearly double its expected price, while two of her other works previously achieved $90,850 and $87,400 in 2024 — a sign of enduring demand for the Lewis legacy.
Art dealer Chad Brown noted that Everett’s Two Black Cats bears resemblance to one of Maud’s most iconic black cat paintings. “There’s something about the black cat image that’s resonating with people more than any other Lewis image,” Brown said. “If one of Maud’s originals isn’t available, Everett’s work becomes the next best thing.”
While Maud Lewis remains the more celebrated of the two, Everett’s contributions are gaining new recognition. The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia now includes several of his paintings in its permanent display — a significant acknowledgment of his artistic influence.
Brown humorously added that collecting the couple’s artwork “is the new cryptocurrency,” given their increasing value and cultural significance. As both Maud and Everett’s works continue to captivate collectors worldwide, this record-breaking sale reaffirms the enduring affection for the heartfelt stories told through their folk art.
2025.10.10 Toronto