Trending in Art: Recognising Undervalued Artists

For many collectors, acquiring artwork is mainly a personal passion, albeit one they may choose to support with capital. In recent years we’ve seen a growing interest from clients looking to incorporate art into their broader portfolios. 

While many different genres of art may be worthy of attention, one major recent trend is to focus on overlooked (and therefore potentially undervalued) artists. In particular, female artists, Indigenous artists, African and African diaspora artists, and other historically less-appreciated creators are driving significant shifts in the global art market.

As such, institutions and individual collectors are now closing historical gaps and investing in undervalued artists as part of a dynamic rebalancing of the global art market, influenced by landmark movements like Black Lives Matter and the Guerrilla Girls. 

An international movement has emerged

The art world has begun to take notice, shining a bright light on undervalued artists through events such as the Venice Biennale cultural festival, 1‑54 Contemporary African Art Fair, and the Kerry James Marshall exhibition.

One expert who has closely observed and analysed the latest trends in the global art market is Rubina Romanelli, Art Adviser and Senior Collection Manager for Corient’s Art Management team. According to Romanelli, ‘the next Venice Biennale will provide a good indication of emerging trends. However, the resurgence of women artists, other overlooked or undervalued artists is likely to continue, as galleries and collectors have invested in these artists, and museums plan their exhibitions years in advance.’

African artists and artists from across the African diaspora also appear to be a stable focus for collectors and exhibitors. ‘Major art fairs and institutional exhibitions are cases in point’, says Romanelli. ‘Institutional recognition gives confidence to the market, creating a virtuous circle.’

Romanelli believes that the reason for this growing trend can be attributed to two main factors. ‘First, curators and institutions are addressing historical gaps, uncovering overlooked work as part of their moral and historical responsibility. Also, activist groups such as the Guerrilla Girls, or social and political movements like Black Lives Matter, have helped highlight issues such as the under-representation of women and racial inequities.’

Tapping into this market’s growth potential

The other factor concerns the value of the art produced by women and other undervalued artists. ‘Collectors and market participants have recognised the financial potential of undervalued artists – often historically significant figures whose work had been priced far below that of their male counterparts’, says Romanelli.

As the art market continues to broaden its lens, does the growing recognition of women, African and other historically overlooked artists signal a meaningful cultural shift rather than a passing phase? In Romanelli’s opinion, ‘art is inevitably connected to a historical, social and political context in time. It reveals deeper truths and offers new perspectives on the world. The current reassessment of overlooked voices reflects not only a market correction, but a wider cultural awareness. While market dynamics may fluctuate, the underlying shift in narratives suggests the potential for a deeper and more lasting transformation, extending beyond short-term market cycles.’

Are you interested in acquiring artworks or discussing an existing collection? Would you like to explore the trending market for underrepresented and undervalued artists? Your Corient Wealth Advisor can engage with our team of art experts if required, and can also help you determine how an allocation to artwork could fit within your overall investment portfolio.

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