The art market in 2025 is a complex and multifaceted beast, full of contradictions and challenges. A new report from Art Market Trends 2025, a survey of over 384 gallery professionals and art dealers across 60 countries, paints a nuanced picture of the industry.
Table of Contents
Challenges Ahead
* Economic uncertainty
* Changing collector behavior
* Declining demand
* Limited transparency
* Insufficient adoption of new technology
These challenges are significant, and many galleries are struggling to adapt. However, there are also opportunities for growth and innovation.
Online Sales and Collector Behavior
* 75% of galleries surveyed cited economic uncertainty as a major challenge
* 60% said they are worried about changing collector behavior and declining demand
* 43% plan to invest more in online sales
* 19% describe themselves as leaders in adopting new technology
Despite these challenges, there are signs of progress. Online sales are becoming increasingly popular, with 60% of collectors buying art online in 2024. Younger collectors, in particular, are driving this trend, with 71% making purchases online and 80% increasing or maintaining their online spending year over year.
Transparency and Technology
* Only 19% of galleries describe themselves as leaders in adopting new technology
* 44% of galleries do not display prices for all available works on their websites
* 25% still require potential buyers to “inquire” for a price
There are also issues with transparency. Many galleries still do not provide clear information about art prices, making it difficult for collectors to make informed decisions.
Education and Engagement
* 46% of collectors value educational content from galleries
* 15% of galleries say this kind of engagement ranks among the experiences collectors respond to most positively
There is also a disconnect between collectors and galleries. While collectors value educational content, many galleries do not prioritize it. This can make it difficult for collectors to find the information they need to make informed purchasing decisions.
Price and Value
* 78% of collectors say they have hesitated to buy an artwork because it was too expensive
* 52% have walked away because they believed the work was overpriced
* 32% were unsure if the artwork was worth the asking price
Price remains a significant issue in the art market. Many collectors feel that prices are too high, and it can be difficult to determine the true value of a piece.
Geography and Location
* 57% of dealers say they are targeting international buyers in 2025
* 16% say their local art market “completely” meets their needs
There is also a disconnect between geography and the art market. While galleries may be targeting international buyers, collectors often feel underserved even in their own cities. This can make it difficult for galleries to attract new customers and build relationships with collectors.
| Geography and Art Market | Dealers’ Perspective | Collectors’ Perspective |
|---|---|---|
| International buyers | 57% of dealers say they are targeting international buyers | Collectors often feel underserved even in their own cities |
| Local art market | 16% of collectors say their local art market “completely” meets their needs | Many galleries do not prioritize local engagement |
A Call to Action
The art market in 2025 is a complex and multifaceted beast, full of contradictions and challenges. However, there are also opportunities for growth and innovation. Galleries must adapt to the changing landscape and prioritize transparency, education, and engagement. By doing so, they can build stronger relationships with collectors and attract new customers. The art market is borderless, but it is also highly personal. Galleries must find ways to connect with collectors on a personal level and provide clear guidance and support. A successful art market is one that balances technology and transparency with human connection and relationship-building. By prioritizing these elements, galleries can thrive in 2025 and beyond.
Key Takeaways
* Economic uncertainty and changing collector behavior are significant challenges
* Online sales are becoming increasingly popular, but transparency and technology remain issues
* Collectors value educational content and clear information about art prices
* Price remains a significant issue in the art market
* Geography and location are critical factors in the art market
Conclusion
The art market in 2025 is a year of mixed messages. While there are challenges ahead, there are also opportunities for growth and innovation. Galleries must adapt to the changing landscape and prioritize transparency, education, and engagement. By doing so, they can build stronger relationships with collectors and attract new customers. The art market is borderless, but it is also highly personal. Galleries must find ways to connect with collectors on a personal level and provide clear guidance and support.