With the right knowledge, making money out of buying art is an exciting possibility]
In certain quarters, art has become an increasingly attractive alternative investment as part of a diversified portfolio. One of its biggest advantages is that it tends to hold its value and, over time, can increase in value. In the meantime, buyers get to enjoy their acquisitions.
The global art market was valued at US$552 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow to US$585.98 billion in 2025 and US$944.59 billion by 2033, primarily driven by increased sales of artworks, particularly amongst high-net-worth individuals. As the number of these individuals rises globally, there is growing demand for art as a viable asset class to include in their investment portfolios alongside traditional assets like stocks, bonds and real estate.
The most common mistakes new art collectors make are not knowing the important components that influence the value of an artwork, its provenance and getting expert advice. Naturally, the most important factor is the status of the artist and their biography, as well as the significance of the work within the artist’s repertoire and the social milieu in which it was created. Before acquiring an artwork, it is essential to research the artist, their background, their creative output, what their work stands for and how it has been received – by the general public, the art world and the market at large.
This is where expert advice from specialists who understand the art market and current trends can make the difference between acquiring a piece that holds its value and one that appreciates significantly in value.
Plot a path
Online art auctions are an effective way to embark on an art collecting journey, offering a good introduction to the art world for new collectors, irrespective of whether they choose to buy a specific artwork or simply use the opportunity to establish what pieces resonate with them aesthetically. Some websites offer a buy now, pay later model, which allows buyers to pay off artworks over a three-month period interest-free.
Understanding long-term ambitions is important for investors. Acquiring an Irma Stern painting is certainly a reliable way to preserve value and hedge your investment. However, high-end purchases like this may take a long time to appreciate significantly in value.
Acquiring an artwork from emerging talents, on the other hand, will be significantly more affordable but does come with a degree of uncertainty in terms of how much their work will appreciate in value over time. When it comes to art collecting, it takes experience and insight to recognise emerging talent – and a healthy dose of luck – which is why expert advice is always a good idea.
Art collecting is essentially about patience: an art collection is not built up overnight, and it does not always appreciate in value quickly. Instead, regard it as a passion project that has the potential to be a lucrative investment if you have bought carefully. A buyer’s market allows for careful selection, strategic acquisitions and a strong foundation for future appreciation when market conditions shift.
Text | Marelize van Zyl
Photography | Pressmaster
Marelize van Zyl is CEO at Aspire Art. For more information, go to aspireart.net.
