Like many things in 2021, the art world has undergone a lot of change. Whether because of the recent shift in political climates or the aftershock of the pandemic, many aspects of life as we know it have shifted. The art market has gone through a significant change in the last 10 years. As an art enthusiast, collector, or investor, it’s important to keep up with the times.
Art is not just something pretty to look at in museums. Art is the language with which humans communicate their ideas, emotions, and thoughts. Art is a reflection of society. As society changes, so will art. When it comes to the art market in 2021 regarding paintings, a few noticeable trends have emerged. We’ve compiled the most recent trends to help keep you up to date and keep your art appreciation in the loop.
Art has become more digital
Many aspects of the art industry have slowly been moving more digital in the last 10 years. Even before the pandemic, virtual exhibitions and selling art online were gaining popularity. Artists, Consumers, and investors are all expected to thrive in the upcoming years. The art market is becoming much more accessible. Artists can connect with, amass popularity and sell their work more through the internet. Investing in art has never been easier. With Masterworks investing and other such options, investors can keep up to date with the trends and invest in art they believe in by buying a percentage of a certain piece. With art moving to more digital platforms, experiencing art and investing from the comforts of your own home has never been easier.
Nature is back
Naturalism has had a revival since the renaissance in the year 2021. Whether unconsciously or not, images and paintings of nature have had a surge in popularity recently. When society experiences turmoil, it turns back to basics to seek peace and find meaning. Nature represents serenity and stability, and it’s no wonder why there’s a renewed appreciation for it in 2021. Artwork depicting rolling hills, forests, and the elements is expected to have an increased market share in the upcoming future. The reappearance of nature motifs seems to show that society wants to go back to a simpler time.
Art is becoming more environmentally conscious
Art has always been political, but in 2021 it’s becoming conscious about the environment as well. Nature is both being shown on and behind the canvas as artists take on a more hands-on approach to climate change. Recycled materials and the gradual shift towards digitalized art are picking up popularity. Artists are moving away from traditional printed catalogs, invites, and exhibition tickets. They are moving instead in favor of a paperless, more eco-conscious form of showcasing their art. Environmentally conscious artwork and artists are expected to gain popularity, as climate change continues to become a more pressing issue. In 2021 it’s a good idea to invest in or make art with a message.
Contemporary African art on the rise
The rise in popularity in contemporary African art can be attributed to many factors. It might even go back to the election of Barack Obama. Black contemporary artists have slowly but surely been making their mark on the international art scene. The Black Lives Matter movement reached the highest levels of support in recent history last year. The support for contemporary black artists has increased as well since then. This support is only expected to rise due to a combination of easy access through the internet and high-quality work. The year 2021 is a great year to introduce yourself to some new artists and styles from the African art scene.
The local scene is the new global scene
The climate within the art scene has been evolving for years, and it has taken the year 2021 to revert it into something more local. The current trends predict that because of the effects of the pandemic and travel bans, local will become the new global. Artists, consumers, and investors have all spent much more time at home instead of traveling the world. This, in turn, affects the art scene and market. Local art scenes, styles, and movements have flourished and become more distinct and pronounced since the pandemic. The trend for artists and investors in 2021 is to look inwards and go on a personal rediscovery.
Blurring the lines
One common trend present in the art industry in many forms is the blurring of lines. Whether the lines are between genres, categories, or exhibitions, in 2021 it will be difficult to distinguish one from the other. Recent increases in popularity for art that does not fit into one category or theme show just that. Not only will the themes of the artwork be muddled, but the very concept of how we view and consume art will be altered as well. Recently, more and more art fairs, galleries, and auction houses will continue to blur into one another. As the distinctions between these aspects lessen, so will the interest in the art world rise.
The art market will continue to expand
Last but not least, the current art climate is expected to continue to be a prosperous and profitable one. Many have struggled to stay afloat financially, culturally, and emotionally after last year. 2021 might shed some light on positive change. The pandemic has left people starved for art both as consumers and as artists. There is expected to be an influx of new artwork for the market to tackle in 2021. With the gradual shift to digitalization, the art world has become more accessible to people outside its inner circle. More and more people are interested in selling and acquiring art. This influx of new buyers and investors will gradually sustain the market. The market for paintings is on the rise and it’s as good a time as any to get involved.
Changes come and go, yet society is still able to adapt, survive, and overcome. For getting into the art market in 2021, you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out for nature and contemporary African art. Shift your perspective from a physical world of art to a more digital and environmentally friendly one. Get used to the idea of intersectional art where lines are blurred between categories and galleries. If you’ve ever thought about investing in artwork, 2021 is the best time for it. Being a part of the art industry has never been easier and more profitable!
